Master of Chemical Engineering (MChE) - Professional Program: Shape Your Future in the Heart of the Energy Capital
Program Overview
Rice University's Professional Master of Chemical Engineering (MChE) is a non-thesis program designed to prepare engineers for impactful, leadership-track careers in the chemical, energy, biotechnology, and materials industries. Leveraging our prime location in Houston, the Energy Capital of the World, the program combines rigorous academics with unparalleled real-world experience, connecting students directly to the industry's leading companies and innovators.
Our graduates are highly sought after, with a 95% employment rate within six months of graduation, primarily in the dynamic Houston energy and technology hub.
1. Gain Real-World Experience Through Internship
We bridge the gap between theory and practice. Our curriculum is designed to facilitate professional experience that often leads to full-time job offers.
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ENGI 530: Engineering Practicum: A for-credit summer internship that allows you to apply classroom knowledge to challenging industry problems.
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CHBE 695: Independent Study: Often conducted as an off-campus internship during the fall or spring semesters, focusing on a specific industry project.
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Dedicated Support: Receive personalized guidance from the CHBE department and the Rice University Center for Career Development to secure positions at top companies.
2. Dive Deep with Extended Research Opportunities
Pursue significant, in-depth projects that align with your career goals. The MChE program offers flexible research pathways that allow you to contribute meaningfully to advancing chemical engineering
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Students have the opportunity to engage in sustained research projects,
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Work alongside world-renowned faculty on pressing challenges in areas like energy storage, sustainable processes, and advanced materials.
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This sustained engagement allows for a deeper impact and provides a powerful talking point for your resume and interviews.
3. A Curriculum at the Forefront of Industry
Our curriculum evolves with the industry, offering specialized courses that prepare you for the future of chemical engineering.
Core Chemical Engineering Fundamentals:
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Transport Phenomena
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Chemical Reaction Kinetics and Reactor Design
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Applied Mathematics for Chemical Engineers (with a focus on computational methods and AI/ML applications
Specialized & Elective Coursework: Tailor your degree with electives in high-demand fields
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Energy Transition & Sustainability: Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), sustainable energy systems, polymer processing, and sustainability.
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Industrial Chemical & Processes: Analysis of key industrial processes, advanced process design, and control.
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Polymers & Materials Science: Polymer chemistry and physics, nanoporous materials, complex fluids
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Electrochemical Processes & Energy Storage: Electrochemistry fundamentals, energy storage, energy harvesting and conversion, fuel cells, photovoltaics, and electrocatalysis.
4. Build Your Network and Professional Skills
Your success is defined not just by what you know, but who you know and how you lead.
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Industry Networking Events: Regular exclusive sessions with companies like Exxon, Chevron, BP, Dow, SLB, etc
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Professional Development Workshops: Master essential skills in communication, project management, and leadership through partnerships with programs like the Rice Center for Engineering Leadership (RCEL).
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Career Fairs & Company Info Sessions: Direct access to recruiters from hundreds of leading national and international companies through Rice University's extensive recruiting ecosystem.
Program Requirements at a Glance:
The MChE program requires 30 credit hours for graduation, typically completed in 3-4 semesters. The flexible structure allows you to choose a pathway combining coursework, research, and internships that best fits your career goals.
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Core Courses: 12 credit hours
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Professional Development & Internships: 3-6 credit hours
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Electives & Research: 12-15 credit hours
We welcome applicants from diverse engineering and science backgrounds, such as Bioengineering, Chemistry, etc. Students without an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering may be required to complete foundational core courses to ensure their success in the advanced curriculum. These requirements can be waived upon demonstration of equivalent knowledge through prior coursework or professional experience
Ready to Take the Next Step? Launch your career at the intersection of innovation and industry. Request Information Today! -
Apply Now
For more information, contact: -
Ericson De Paula, PhD
MChE Program Co-Director
edepaula@rice.edu -
Rafael Verduzco, PhD
MChE Program Co-Director
rafaelv@rice.edu -
Yesmin Escobar
Academic Program Administrator
ye7@rice.edu