Department of
Chemical Engineering
Meeting society's most pressing needs — sustainably.
Today’s society requires us to think differently about the way we do things. That’s why in the Department of Chemical Engineering, we create solutions that leave the world in a better place than we found it. We teach students in the classroom, in the laboratory, and at industrial locations how to build and implement sustainable processes, materials, and energy for a cleaner earth. Our program is designed at the forefront of modern chemical engineering, with a focus on developing high-tech — and planet-friendly — approaches to bioprocesses, biopharmaceuticals, and sustainable materials.
![Bandaru Ramarao, Ph.D.](/chemeng/assets/ram.png)
Meet the Chair
Bandaru Ramarao, Ph.D.
"At ESF, you will learn how to leverage renewable resources so that you’re well trained to engage in a green future. We teach our chemical engineers how to engage harmoniously with the environment, whether through sustainable packaging, advanced biopharmaceuticals, or biodegradable biomaterials. Our students take a common first year, then choose one of our four majors that best suits them."
Undergraduate Degree Programs
Bioprocess Engineering
Pursue an exciting path in biopharmaceuticals — manufacturing drugs, vaccines, and therapies for diseases and health.
Learn More![Student in a lab coat pouring a solution into a vessel.](/chemeng/assets/bioprocess-card.png)
Chemical Engineering
Learn strategies to solve society’s critical challenges in future energy, manufacturing, and the environment.
Learn More![Student wearing safety glasses holding a vial in a laboratory.](/chemeng/assets/chemeng-card.png)
Paper Engineering
Develop and manufacture new and sustainable paper and packaging materials.
![Student working with ESF's paper machine.](/chemeng/assets/paper-card.png)
Renewable Materials Science
Acquire skills to create new materials, composites, and fibers from renewable resources such as trees, plants, and grasses.
Learn More![Researcher working with woody biomass in the field.](/chemeng/assets/renew-card.png)