We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Education

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Become a Chemical Engineer?

By Carol Francois
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 4,061
Share

There are four steps required to become a chemical engineer: qualify for admission to engineering school, complete the course work, pass the certification examination and obtain employment as a chemical engineer. A chemical engineer is someone who is responsible for combining different chemicals together to create new substances or enhancing existing ones. Chemical engineers can find employment in manufacturing, pharmaceutical, research and food companies.

The chemical engineering program is available from a wide range of universities, both traditional and online. The standard admission requirements are high school courses in chemistry, physics, calculus, algebra, English and technology. High marks are a standard requirement, as the competition for this program is very intense. Many students take additional courses in advanced chemistry, biology and math to improve their knowledge and increase their marks.

The first year of any engineering degree program offers a standard curriculum for all engineering students. Chemistry, physics, calculus and English are the core courses, with additional options that vary by school. These courses often include a laboratory work component, which allows students to complete experiments and explore the concepts taught in class.

During the second year, the courses available to chemical engineering students becomes more focused on chemistry, structures, advanced math and modeling technology. The workload required to become a chemical engineer is very heavy, and a great deal of self-discipline and determination is necessary to succeed in this program.

Upon graduation, the next step on your path to become a chemical engineer is to be certified by the National Society of Professional Engineers. This association is responsible for the administration of the Professional Engineering designation. Review its website for current information on program requirements and course availability. A certification examination that tests your knowledge of the professional code of ethics, commercial law and business practices is required.

Make a list of the types of tasks that you like to do and the work you are most interested in. Entry-level positions as a chemical engineer include lab technician, process analysis and quality assurance testing. Build your skills to further enhance your career opportunities.

Certification courses offered by the engineering association include project management, hazardous chemical response unit training and more. Explore the training opportunities at your workplace and talk with your manager about the requirements for promotion and the overall direction of the company in the next five years. Be prepared to invest time and energy into your career.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By anon87908 — On Jun 02, 2010

i am a passionate, hard working learner and i am interested in mechanics. i would be happier than ever if i could get more experience in this field. i am doing grade 10 and my subjects are math, physics, geography and technology. my point is i want more knowledge but i don't know how to get it.

Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-become-a-chemical-engineer.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.