Graduate Frequently Asked Questions

Prospective Graduate Students

Can I be admitted to the department as a graduate student if I do not have an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering?

Students can be admitted to the department as a graduate student even if their undergraduate degree is not in chemical engineering, but additional undergraduate course work may be required depending on the undergraduate major.

How do I apply?

If you are interested in applying to the Chemical and Biological Engineering graduate program, you can visit the Admissions homepage and apply online at http://www.drexel.edu/em/apply/ . For more information about Graduate Programs in the department, see the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering Graduate Programs page.

When are applications due?

Drexel Admissions accepts applications on a rolling basis, but students wishing to enroll in the graduate program should start in the fall term. Students seeking consideration for funding for the Ph.D. program should apply by January 15th.

How are advisors assigned to students?

Students meet with the faculty of the department and submit a list of their top three preferences for advisors to the department. Then, the department matches the priorities of the faculty and the students. Advisor assignments are usually completed by the end of students' first terms at Drexel.

What graduate degrees are offered by the department?

At the graduate level, the department of Chemical and Biological Engineering offers a M.S. in Chemical Engineering and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering.

Can students choose an area of specialization?

Yes, students can choose an area of specialization. Fifteen credits of concentration electives are allotted for students to study their area of specialization. For more information, see Graduate Programs Page.

Are areas of specializations required for the degree?

Yes, students are required to take fifteen credits of concentration electives in an area of specialization. For more information, see Graduate Programs Page.

I am currently a graduate student at another University. Can I transfer my course credits to Drexel?

In order to transfer, first contact the College of Engineering Transfer Coordinator. Submit an official transcript from your university to be evaluated and meet with the Graduate Advisor to discuss what classes need to be taken. At least 30 graduate credits must be taken at Drexel.

Do all M.S. students have to write/defend a thesis?

•  All full-time M.S. students must complete a thesis by taking nine credits of M.S. Thesis (CHE 898). Also, six credits of Independent Study Research (CHE 799) can be taken in place of elective credits.

•  For part-time M.S. students, a thesis is optional. For students that do not wish to complete a thesis, up to nine credits of Independent Study Research (CHE 799) or coursework can be taken in place of thesis credits.

Are graduate classes offered at night for part-time students?

Some graduate classes are offered at night and some in the afternoons. Typically, each core course will be offered in the evening every two years.