Course Overview
All Master's programs within the Department of Chemical Engineering comprise coursework and research. Opportunities exist for graduate students who want to focus on independent research, and gain experience in applying the scientific method. Students who want a traditional classroom-based education can follow a program focused on coursework. The programs have evolved to accommodate students with diverse scientific backgrounds and career goals. However, the sole requirement that remains constant is academic excellence. Note that applicants who already hold a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering cannot enter our Master's program. MEng with research focus: The "Thesis Option" Master's degree emphasizes independent research. In general, this program requires the completion of an intensive research project performed under the direction of an academic staff member. The research is summarized in a formal thesis submitted at the end of the program. Also required are a research proposal, presentation of a seminar, and twelve (12) credits of graduate-level courses. Most students complete the MEng thesis option requirements in 20 months, earning a Master of Engineering (MEng) degree. MEng with coursework focus: The "Project Option" Master's degree is designed for students who want to focus on coursework. A total of forty-five (45) course credits must be completed. Students are free to choose the courses, but approximately 20% of the courses chosen must form a coherent "area of concentration" that enables the student to specialize in a desired area. Exposure to independent research is achieved through a research project. While this work must be carried out under the supervision of an academic staff member, no formal thesis is required. Similarly to the MEng thesis option, students usually complete the degree requirements in 20 months, earning a Master of Engineering (MEng) degree. There is no distinction between the MEng degrees granted under the thesis and project options.