2011-2013 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog (with addenda) 
    
    Nov 29, 2024  
2011-2013 Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog (with addenda) [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Chemical and Biological Engineering


Academic Directors:
Walter Zurawsky (undergraduate)
Jovan Mijovic (graduate)

Chemical and biomolecular engineers rely heavily on science, engineering methods, experience and inventiveness to develop the processes and equipment required for economical production of new and useful products. Chemical and biomolecular engineers have contributed to developing virtually every material common to modern life. In addition to working with bulk chemicals and petroleum products, these engineers play key roles in producing plastics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, fertilizers and foodstuffs, synthetic rubber, rocket propellants, fuel cells, automatic controls, water desalination plants, missiles and artificial kidneys. New technologies, from sensors to the production of bulk chemicals from renewable bio-resources, require the unique skills of chemical and biomolecular engineers.

Chemical and biomolecular engineers may choose from a wide range of professional activities, including research, process and product development, design and supervision of the construction and operation of industrial plants, technical sales and services, consulting, management, teaching and entrepreneurship. Opportunities in chemical and biomolecular engineering are virtually unlimited.

The foundations of chemical and biomolecular engineering are the sciences, with emphasis on chemistry, biology, mathematics, physics and the engineering sciences including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, kinetics and heat and mass transfer. Courses include the analysis, design and control of equipment, operations and processes. Students develop the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to bridge the gap between scientific advances and large-scale production of products.

Graduate Programs in Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering graduate programs introduce advanced designs, research and development. The department offers graduate programs leading to a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering and Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering. A BS degree in chemical engineering or a related field of science or engineering is generally required for admission to graduate study. An applicant who has earned a bachelor’s degree from a foreign institution must submit Graduate Record Examination and TOEFL scores. Applicants with degrees in other fields or from other colleges may be admitted with undergraduate or graduate deficiencies as evaluated by the graduate adviser. Students must have had at least one course in differential equations. NYU-Poly research areas include biopolymers at interfaces, bio-sensors, dynamics of complex fluids, nanotechnology and nanomaterials, process-systems engineering, protein engineering and biomolecular diagnostics.

Goals and Objectives

The objective of the MS degree in chemical engineering is to provide an understanding of the fundamental principles of chemical engineering subjects. The program enhances mathematical and analytical skills and emphasizes advanced design concepts. Students in the MS program develop a deeper understanding of engineering principles, and laboratory and research skills. They also conduct an in-depth study of a specialized chemical engineering topic through a guided studies project or a research thesis.

The PhD degree in chemical engineering provides advanced knowledge of fundamentals and research in emerging fields in chemical engineering. Research skills are refined, and the candidate performs original research that advances the understanding of a specific chemical engineering discipline. Faculty plan programs of study individually with each candidate. Systematic study toward a doctorate is guided by a guidance committee appointed by the Office of Research and PhD Programs.

Program options: