MS in Chemical Engineering in USA: Top University, Requirements & Fees

MS in Chemical Engineering in USA: Top University, Requirements & Fees

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Jasmine Grover

Education Journalist | Study Abroad Lead

Highlights:

  • Available Courses: Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA is offered as MS in Chemical Engineering, Masters of Engineering in Chemical & Biological Engineering, and MS in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.
  • Requirements: To be eligible, applicants need a BSc degree or equivalent in the Engineering field with a minimum 65% aggregate.
  • Entrance Exams: Admission requires GRE scores with a minimum of 160 in the Verbal and 163 in the Quantitative section.
  • MS in Chemical Engineering in USA without GRE: 38% of Chemical Engineering programs in the US no longer require the GRE including University of Texas at Austin, University of Florida, Arizona State University, etc.
  • Tuition Fees: Tuition fees range from 22,884 to 86,200 USD, approximately 19.05 to 71.78 lakhs INR.
  • Fully Funded MS in Chemical Engineering in USA: Universities such as MIT, Stanford University, CalTech and Carnegie Mellon University offer full funding for the course to students with a strong academic profile.
  • Top Recruiters: Graduates can expect job opportunities with companies like ExxonMobil, Dow Chemical Corporation, E.I. Du Pont De Nemours & Company, Boeing, and 3M Company.
  • Starting Salary: The average starting salary for graduates is around 98,700 USD, which equates to 82.20 lakhs INR.

MS in Chemical Engineering programs in USA are offered as either a Master of Science (MS) with a thesis or coursework focus, or a Master of Engineering (MEng) with a stronger focus on practical applications. These programs typically last 1 to 2 years and are offered on a full-time basis. The tuition fees for MS in Chemical Engineering in the USA can range widely, from $22,884 to $86,200 for the entire program, depending on the university. The average cost falls around $47,028 per year. 

Admission Requirements

To be accepted into a competitive MS in Chemical Engineering in US program, you need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field with a GPA of around 3.0 or higher. Many universities also require the GRE, with a score of 300 or above being competitive for top schools. You also must demonstrate English proficiency with IELTS scores ranging from 6.5 to 7.0 or TOEFL scores between 78 and 111. Once graduated, MS in Chemical Engineering students secure high-paying jobs in the USA such as Analytical Chemist, Biochemist, Chemical Engineer, and Chemical Technologist, among others.

Table of Contents

  1. Top Universities for Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA
  2. Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA Eligibility Criteria
  3. Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA Cost
  4. MS in Chemical Engineering in US Scholarships
  5. Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA Job Opportunities
  6. FAQs

Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA: Top Universities

The top universities providing MS in Chemical Engineering in USA and their admission deadlines for international students are as follows – 

Name of the University Program Application Deadlines Tuition Fees in USD
Massachusetts Institute of Technology MS in Chemical Engineering November 13, 2024 57,590
Stanford University MS in Chemical Engineering November 1, 2024 62,580
University of California- Los Angeles MS in Chemical Engineering December 31, 2024 33,238
University of Wisconsin-Madison MS in Chemical Engineering September 1, 2024 51,156
University of Minnesota- Twin Cities MS in Chemical Engineering December 15, 2024 81,840
Cornell University MS in Chemical Engineering December 31, 2024 59,000
University of Michigan- Ann Arbor MS in Chemical Engineering December 31, 2024 50,800
University of Pennsylvania MS in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering February 1, 2024 34,529
Pennsylvania State University MS in Chemical Engineering December 15, 2024 44,990
University of Delaware MS in Chemical Engineering June 6, 2024 30,840
Carnegie Mellon University MS in Chemical Engineering September 1, 2024 54,700
University Of California- San Diego MS in Chemical Engineering September 2024 22,884
University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign MS in Chemical Engineering December 15, 2024 37,524
Michigan State University MS in Chemical Engineering December 15, 2024 28,987
University of California- Berkeley MS in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering December 4, 2024 15,602
Northwestern University MS in Chemical and Biological Engineering December 2024 86,200

Featuring high global rankings, graduate schools in the USA stand out in terms of education and facilities compared to other countries. Students looking for Masters in Chemical Engineering are also attracted to study in the USA because it offers a variety of sectors to work in except for traditional pharmaceutical, or petroleum industries.

Why Study Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA?

MS in Chemical Engineering in USA is a popular course among Indian students as – 

  • High Demand: The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7.3% growth in Chemical Engineering jobs over the next decade (2022-2032) which is faster than average for all occupations. This translates to an estimated 18,100 new jobs each year.
  • Competitive Salaries: According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the average starting salary for Chemical Engineering graduates with a Master's degree was $96,100 in 2023. This represents a significant increase compared to the $82,500 average for graduates with a Bachelor's degree.
  • World-Renowned Universities: The USA is home to some top universities globally for Chemical Engineering programs, according to QS World University Rankings like MIT, Stanford, and Caltech.
  • Cutting-Edge Research: The US is a leader in various fields relevant to Chemical Engineering, such as advanced materials, sustainable energy solutions, and bioengineering. 
  • Potential for OPT (Optional Practical Training): International students graduating with a Master's in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields qualify for a longer Optional Practical Training (OPT) period of up to 24 months. This allows valuable work experience in the US after graduation.

Read More: Why Study in USA?


MS in Chemical Engineering in USA Requirements

This section elaborates on the eligibility criteria for admission to American universities with university-wise cut-off marks for different ELPs (English Language Proficiency) and GRE for aspirants of Masters in Chemical Engineering from USA.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Chemical Engineering:

  • International students planning to study in the USA should have completed 16 years of education (10+2+4)including a four-year bachelor's degree.
  • Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent in any field in Engineering or related areas (physics, mathematics, chemistry or material science) with a minimum of 3.0 GPA on the scale of 4.0 GPA.
    • The percentile equivalent of 3.0 is 83-86% and the grade equivalent is B.
  • English language proficiency
    • IELTS: 6.5-7.0
    • TOEFL iBT: 100+
  • A minimum GRE score of 323, with an average score of 160 in verbal and 163 in quantitative.

MS in Chemical Engineering in USA – University Specific Requirements

The specific requirements of the top universities in US for admission to MS in Chemical Engineering in USA are – 

University Name Minimum GPA GRE Required (Minimum Score) TOEFL (Minimum Score) IELTS (Minimum Score)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 3.5+ Yes (320+) 100 (iBT) 7
Stanford University 3.7+ Yes (325+) 100 (iBT) 7.5
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) 3.8+ Yes (330+) 100 (iBT) 7.5
University of California, Berkeley 3.3+ Yes (310+) 90 (iBT) 7
Carnegie Mellon University 3.5+ Yes (315+) 100 (iBT) 7
University of Pennsylvania 3.3+ Optional 100 (iBT) 7
University of Texas at Austin 3.0+ Optional 80 (iBT) 7
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) 3.3+ Optional 90 (iBT) 7
Georgia Institute of Technology 3.0+ Optional 85 (iBT) 6.5
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 3.0+ Optional 80 (iBT) 6.5

International applicants must be aware of the admission deadlines for studying in top USA universities.

MS in Chemical Engineering in USA Without GRE

Some universities that offer Master's in Chemical Engineering programs in the USA without a GRE requirement are:

  • University of California, Irvine (UCI)
  • University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)
  • University of Florida (UF)
  • Arizona State University (ASU)
  • University of Alabama (UA)

Alternatives to GRE

While the GRE is not required for these programs, some universities may consider other factors in place of the GRE score. Here are some alternatives:

  • Strong academic record
  • Standardized English proficiency tests
  • Work experience
  • Research experience
  • Statement of purpose

MS in Chemical Engineering in USA Cost of Attendance

The cost of studying MS in Chemical Engineering in USA can be divided into 3 criteria – pre-arrival expenses, tuition fees and cost of living in the country.

Pre-Arrival Cost

This section incorporates the cost of a visa application and the fees for different tests and entrance examinations required to study in the USA.

Categories Cost in USD Equivalent Cost in INR
Visa Application Cost 510 42,472
IELTS Fee 195 16,240
TOEFL Fee 203 16,900
GRE Fee 228 18,986
SEVIS Fee 220 [J-visa] | 350 [F-visa] 18,320 [J-visa] | 29,145 [F-visa]
Total 1356 to 1486 1.12 to 1.23 lakhs

Tuition Fees for MS in Chemical Engineering In USA

As mentioned in the top universities section, Masters in Chemical Engineering in US costs around an average of 47,028 USD/year (39.16 lakhs INR), with a minimum of 22,884 USD (19.05 lakhs INR) for the total program in UC- San Diego whereas the maximum is around 86,200 USD (71.78 lakhs INR) for the total program in Stanford University. The total fees for MS in Chemical Engineering in USA is estimated to be between 17 lakhs to 86 lakhs INR for Indian students.

Name Of the University Total Program Tuition Fee in USD Total Program Tuition Fee in INR
Stanford University 62,580 52.11 lakhs
Carnegie Mellon University 54,700 45.55 lakhs
University of Delaware 30,840 25.68 lakhs
University of California- Los Angeles 33,238 27.68 lakhs
University of Michigan- Ann Arbor 50,800 42.30 lakhs
Massachusetts Institute of Technology 57,590 47.96 lakhs
University of California- Berkeley 15,602 12.99 lakhs
Cornell University 59,000 49.13 lakhs
University of Pennsylvania 34,529 28.75 lakhs
Michigan State University 28,987 24.13 lakhs
University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign 37,524 31.24 lakhs
Northwestern University 86,200 71.78 lakhs
University of Wisconsin-Madison 51,156 42.60 lakhs
University of Minnesota- Twin Cities 81,840 68.15 lakhs
Pennsylvania State University 44,990 37.46 lakhs
University of California-San Diego 22,884 19.05 lakhs

MS in Chemical Engineering in USA Tuition Fees

Cost of Living in USA

Mentioned below is the detailed structure of different expenses that you need to incorporate while you stay in the USA. The cost of living completely depends on the lifestyle as well as the choice of the university made by an individual.

Categories Average Monthly Expenses in USD Average Monthly Expenses in INR
Accommodation 1,000 (On-Campus) | 600-800 (Off-Campus) 83,270 [On-Campus] | 49,965 to 66,620 [Off-Campus]
Meals 120-160 9,993 to 13,325
Transportation 100-300 8,327 to 24,982
Personal Expenditures 300-600 24,982 to 49,964
Health Insurance 450-700 37,473 to 58,291
Total 1,570-2,813 1.30 to 2.34 lakhs

Check in Detail: Cost of Living in USA 


Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA with Scholarships

With the hefty sum required to study MS in Chemical Engineering in the USA, applying for funding is always a wiser option. International applicants are offered various scholarships to study in the USA. Mentioned below are a few scholarships available for Masters students in the USA which will provide you with financial support to some extent.

Name of the Scholarship Eligibility Criteria Benefit(in USD)
JN Tata Endowment Scholarship Completed undergraduate degree or in the final year,  minimum average of 60% in UG Varies
Debesh Kamal Scholarships Candidate must not be older than 30 years and should have completed honours at postgraduate level 1,385
Paul Foundation Scholarships First class degree at the undergraduate level, below 30 years of age, submission of income proof certificate 20,174
KC Mahindra Scholarships Strong academic standing 5,542

Apart from these scholarships, each American University provides departmental fellowships to a few selected students on merit. You can also apply for those fellowship programs available to students pursuing MS in Chemical Engineering in USA. If international students cannot get scholarships, loans for studying in USA are also available.

Work-While Study in USA

There are many part-time jobs available in the USA. The F-1 Visa permits you to work about 20 hours a week during your semesters, which you can utilise by working in a part-time job or an internship program.

Popular Part-time Jobs in the USA

  • Library Monitor: You can earn up to 20 USD/hour (1,665 INR).
  • Tour Guide: You can earn up to 15 USD/hour (1,249 INR).
  • Teaching Assistant: You can get an average pay of around 25-30 USD/hour (2,081 to 2,498 INR).
  • Peer Tutor: You can earn up to 23 USD/hour (1,915 INR).

Internships

While contemplating you can likewise opt for a different internship program in various positions at various firms. The favoured areas where you can pick positions for your internships are process Engineering, co-operations, manufacturing etc. which will give you information on the present market situation and will also improve your CV.


Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA Placement and Jobs

After completing Masters in Chemical Engineering in the USA, students get placements from world’s renowned companies like ExxonMobil Corporation, Dow Chemical Corporation, Honeywell International INC., E.I. Du Pont De Nemours & Company, The Boeing Company, etc. The average salary of a Chemical engineer in their mid-career is 98,700 USD (82.19 lakhs INR).

Post Study in the USA: Work Visa

After completion of the study, most non-US students look for work in the US for which they need to apply for a work visa. The most common type of work visa is H1-B visa.

To apply for a work visa, i.e. H1-B visa you must have:

  • An offer of employment.
  • You need to file an I-129 petition with the U.S. citizen and immigration.

Some popular job roles with their average yearly salary are mentioned below.

Designations Average Salary in USD Average Salary in INR
Chemical Engineer 98,700 82.20 lakhs
Laboratory Researcher 90,800 75.62 lakhs
Chemist 192,000 1.59 crore
Professor - Chemical Engineering 157,000 1.30 crore
Professor - Chemistry 144,000 1.19 crore
Professor - Civil Engineering 138,000 1.14 crore
Professor - Electrical Engineering 153,000 1.27 crore
Professor - Environmental Engineering 142,000 1.18 crore
Professor - Industrial Engineering 138,000 1.14 crore
Professor - Mechanical Engineering 155,000 1.29 crore
Biochemist 189,000 1.57 crore
Astronomer 219,000 1.82 crore
Nuclear Engineer 216,000 1.79 lakhs

MS in Chemical Engineering in USA Top Job Roles

Research Opportunities Post Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA

After completion of your Master's degree, you can also opt for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in the USA as well. Universities like MIT, Stanford, University of California, etc. are among the top colleges providing doctoral degrees in Chemical Engineering and its specialisations. As per the study, a person with a doctoral degree earns up to 23% more than a graduate.

MS in Chemical Engineering in USA: Comparison By University

Comparison of top US universities for Masters of Chemical on the basis of program duration, and other admission requirements:

University Program Duration Application Fees in USD Average GPA GRE Scores ELP Scores
Massachusetts Institute of Technology 2 years 75 USD 3.9 164 [Verbal] | 163 [Quant] IELTS: 7.5 | TOEFL-IBT: 90
Stanford University 1.5 - 2 years 125 USD 3.5 or above 159 [Verbal] | 167 [Quant] IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-IBT: 100
University of California- Los Angeles 3 years 85 USD 3.2 163 [Verbal] | 168 [Quant] IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-IBT: 77
Cornell University 2 years 105 USD 3.34 155  [Verbal] | 165 [Quant] IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-IBT: 100
University of Pennsylvania 1 - 2 years 90 USD 3.6 159 [Verb] | 165 [Quant] IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-IBT: 100
Carnegie Mellon University 2 years 75 USD 3.0 165 [Verbal] | 163 [Quant] IELTS: 7.5 | TOEFL-IBT: 102
Michigan State University 1.5 - 2 years 90 USD 3.5 162 [Quant] IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL-IBT: 79
Northwestern University 15 to 21 months 95 USD 3.6 160 [Verbal] | 161 [Quant] IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL-IBT: 111

Thus, an MS in Chemical Engineering in USA is offered in American universities with different internships and international seminars. Accordingly, the ROI is extremely high making Masters in Chemical Engineering a decent choice for the students hoping to study abroad in the USA. Chemical engineers are needed in various sectors, including chemicals, manufacturing, biotechnology, etc.  A Master's degree equips you with advanced knowledge and specialized skills in nanotechnology, catalysis, or process engineering. 


FAQs

Ques. Is the US good for pursuing MS in Chemical Engineering?

Ans. Yes. USA is one of the best places to pursue MS in Chemical Engineering. The country is home to Nobel laureate chemical engineer, Frances Arnold and several other elite personalities in the field of Chemistry. The top 10 universities for Masters in Chemical Engineering in the USA are among the top 50 universities in the world.

Ques. What is the cost of studying MS in Chemical Engineering in USA?

Ans. The average cost of studying MS in Chemical Engineering in US ranges between 22,884 to 86,200 USD (19.05 to 71.78 lakhs INR). This varies from university to university.

Ques. What is the average starting salary of a Chemical Engineering graduate in the USA?

Ans. The average starting salary of a Chemical Engineering graduate in the USA is around 45,400 USD per annum. This is equivalent to 37.81 lakhs INR.

Ques. Which are the top 5 universities for Masters in Chemical Engineering in the USA?

Ans. MIT, Stanford University, University of California-Berkeley, University of California-Los Angeles, and University of Wisconsin-Madison are some top universities for pursuing a Master's in Chemical Engineering in the USA.

Ques. What are the Eligibility criteria for pursuing a Master's in Chemical Engineering in USA?

Ans. A student must have a Bachelor of Science degree or its equivalent in any field in Engineering or in related areas(physics, mathematics, chemistry or material science) with a minimum of 3.0 GPA on a scale of 4.0 or 85% aggregate with good scores in GRE and English proficiency test scores.

Ques. Can I pursue a MS in Chemical Engineering in USA without GRE?

Ans. Yes, though most of the top universities require you to have GRE scores to get admission to Masters in Chemical Engineering in USA, such as University of Maryland College Park, may offer admissions to students without GRE scores. For 2024 admissions, many top universities have also waived the GRE requirements.

Ques. Master's in Chemical Engineering in USA vs Canada?

Ans. Engineering education from the US and Germany are highly recognized internationally compared to other popular study destinations like Canada. Employers look forward to hiring graduates from US top universities, the packages offered to students from US universities are usually better than those from other universities.

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