Chemistry - Concentration in Engineering Chemistry
Bachelor of Science (BS)

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Chemists study matter’s composition and reactions, creating new compounds to solve industrial, engineering, and medical challenges.

Program Overview

The chemistry of innovation. Engineering chemists apply chemical principles to solve complex engineering challenges, developing the materials and processes that power modern industry.

Master the skills to build what’s next. Our program emphasizes hands-on learning, combining coursework with internships, research opportunities, and real-world problem solving. At LTU, you don’t just study chemical systems – you engineer them to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s demands.

Graduates are prepared for careers in materials science, chemical manufacturing, process engineering, and industrial research, as well as roles in sustainability and emerging technologies. This concentration also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in chemistry, engineering, and related fields.

Why Study Engineering Chemistry at LTU?

Prepare for what comes next with a degree that matters.

Our curriculum is guided by American Chemical Society standards, a professional organization that promotes excellence in chemistry education. Take the first step into your future with a respected degree that prepares you to succeed.

Engineer your future with an interdisciplinary program.

LTU’s Engineering Chemistry concentration ensures graduates are prepared to tackle challenges at the interface of engineering and chemistry. Investigate fluid mechanics, explore nanotechnology, and design innovative materials in hands-on courses and research projects.

Explore chemistry career paths with one-on-one guidance.

Find your own path. Explore a variety of exciting careers in industry, engineering, and research with expert advice from experienced faculty advisors. Get involved in internships, research opportunities, and resume-building experiences starting as early as your freshman year.

Contact

Department of Natural Sciences

nschair@ltu.edu

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Curriculum

The information below is based on the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry – Concentration in Engineering Chemistry Progression Flowchart (last updated April, 2025). View our Course Catalog page for more information about our individual courses.

Fall Semester

Course Name
Course #
Credits
Univ Chem 1

May need 1 year high school chemistry and chemistry placement or math placement. Laws and concepts of chemistry and their application to chemical systems. The liquid and solid states, phase changes and phase diagrams, topics in the chemistry of materials, oxidation-reduction chemistry, electrochemistry, chemical thermodynamics and gas-phase equilibrium. Lect. 3 hrs., Workshop 1 hr., 3 hours credit. The following courses can be taken concurrently with this course: MCS 1074, MCS 1414, MCS 1424.

CHM1213

3

Univ Chem 1 Lab

Laboratory experiments supporting topics covered in CHM1213. Lab 3 hrs. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: CHM 1213.

CHM1221

1

Calculus 1

Topics include, limits and continuity, differentiation of algebraic and transcendental functions, mean value theorem, applications of differentiation, anti-derivatives, indefinite integrals, inverse trigonometric functions, substitutions, definite integrals, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, applications of integration. Applications will be emphasized. In addition to regular class meetings, all students are required to participate in calculus lab sessions. The schedule, frequency, and modality of these labs may vary by section. Refer to the class schedule and course syllabus for details.

MCS1414

4

Introduction to Science

Introduction to scientific thinking with emphasis on collaboration, community, and scientific communication. Hands-on experiments and laboratory safety. Exploration of institutional resources and active areas of scientific research at LTU.

PSC1161

1

Engaging Ancient Texts

A historical survey that develops students’ abilities to critically engage texts of the ancient global world, placing an emphasis on the way these texts reflect their context and human experience. Readings may draw from philosophy, history, literature, visual art, and more. Class activities include reading of primary sources, seminar discussion, and writing in various genres. May be taken concurrently with COM 1103.

HUM1213

3

College Composition

College Composition develops students’ acquisition of the fundamental principles of academic writing. This course focuses on the development of writing thesis statements and main arguments, topic sentences, transitional words and phrases, supporting paragraphs, use of evidence, essay organization, and research skills. Extensive writing and research practice is required.

COM1103

3

Total Credits:

15

Spring Semester

Course Name
Course #
Credits
Univ Chem 2

Modern concepts of molecular-orbital theory and spectroscope methods. The solution state and colligative properties of solutions, and solution-phase equilibrium theory applied to solubility, chemical kinetics, acids and bases, and complex formation. Descriptive chemistry of the main-group and transition elements. Lecture 3 hrs.

CHM1223

3

Univ Chem 2 Lab

Laboratory experiments supporting topics covered in CHM1223. Lab 3 hrs. 1 hour credit. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: CHM 1223.

CHM1231

1

Calculus 2

Hyperbolic functions, L’Hospital’s rule, techniques of integration, application to arc length and surface area, polar coordinates, infinite series, Taylor Series. In addition to regular class meetings, all students are required to participate in calculus lab sessions. The schedule, frequency, and modality of these labs may vary by section. Refer to the class schedule and course syllabus for details.

MCS1424

4

Engineering Materials I

Introduction to solid materials, equilibrium phase diagrams, the properties of materials, test methods, and the influence of variations in physical condition and chemical composition on the properties of metals, plastics, elastomers, glass, cements, etc.

ENG1023

3

Engaging Modern Texts

A historical survey that develops students’ abilities to engage texts of the modern global world, placing an emphasis on the way these texts reflect their context and human experience. Readings may draw from philosophy, history, literature, visual art, photography, film, digital media, and more. Class activities include reading of primary sources, seminar discussion, and writing in various genres. May be taken concurrently with COM 1103.

HUM1223

3

SSC Elective

SSC2XX3

3

Total Credits:

17

Fall Semester

Course Name
Course #
Credits
Organic Chem 1

An introduction to the fundamental principles of organic chemistry, focusing on the nomenclature, structure, reactivity, and mechanisms of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, alcohols, ethers, epoxides, amines, and sulfur-containing compounds.

CHM2313

3

Organic Chem 1 Lab

Through laboratory experiments, students will learn the fundamental techniques used to isolate and synthesize organic molecules, with a focus on green chemistry and a special emphasis on modern purification and characterization methods.

CHM2311

1

Analytical Chem

Extensive use of computers including spreadsheets and word processing programs. Theory of gravimetric, volumetric, and electroanalytical methods. Theory of separation science and chromatography. Statistical analysis of analytical data.

CHM2343

3

Analytical Chem Lab

Extensive use of computers, particularly spreadsheet programs. Practice of gravimetric, volumetric, spectrophotometric, chromatographic, and electrometric methods of quantitative chemical analysis. Lab 6 hrs. 2 hours credit. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: CHM 2352.

CHM2352

2

Calculus 3

Three-dimensional analytic geometry. Vectors, vector-valued functions, motions in space, functions of several variables, partial differentiation, multiple integration, integration of vector fields, Green’s Theorem and Divergence Theorem.

MCS2414

4

University Physics 1

Calculus based kinematics and dynamics of particles, conservation of energy, momentum, rotational dynamics and statics, fluids, temperature and heat, and laws of thermodynamics. 3 Credit hours. Lecture 3 hrs., Studio 1 hr. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: MCS1424.

PHY2413

3

University Physics 1 Lab

Introductory laboratory experiments to complement University Physics 1. 1 Credit Hours. Lab 2 hrs.

PHY2421

1

Total Credits:

17

Spring Semester

Course Name
Course #
Credits
Organic Chem 2

Mechanisms with emphasis on functional groups, spectroscopic methods and structural proofs; selected topics with special emphasis on instrumental approaches to organic problems, organic compounds of biochemical significance. Lect. 3 hrs. Workshop 1 hr. 3 hours credit

CHM2323

3

Organic Chem 2 Lab

Students will learn to read and interpret organic chemistry journal articles and search scientific databases. Organic chemistry laboratory techniques learned in CHM2311 will be used to conduct a course-based research project.

CHM2321

1

Differential Equations

Topics include, but are not limited to, solving first and second-order differential equations and first-order linear systems of differential equations by various techniques such as separation of variables, integrating factors, substitution methods, variation of parameters, and Laplace Transforms. Emphasis will be placed on applications of differential equations arising from engineering applications and the natural sciences.

MCS2423

3

University Physics 2

Calculus based simple harmonic motion, waves and sound, geometric optics, interference and diffraction, electric charge and interaction, electric current, DC Circuits, magnetism, electromagnetic induction, and RC circuits. 3 Credit Hours. Lecture 3 hrs., Studio 1 hr. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: MCS 2414.

PHY2423

3

University Physics 2 Lab

Introductory laboratory experiments complementing University Physics 2. 1 Credit Hours. Lab 2 hrs.

PHY2431

1

Materials Laboratory

A project laboratory devoted to the study of metallographic techniques, heat treatment, structures of metals, alloys, ceramics, and plastics, and physical testing.

EME2011

1

LLT Elective

LLTXXX3

3

Total Credits:

15

Fall Semester

Course Name
Course #
Credits
Physical Chemistry 2

Atomic and molecular structure and spectra. Statistical Thermodynamics. Kinetic theory of gases and chemical kinetics. Lect. 4 hrs. 4 hours credit Note: CHM3423 and CHM3434 are independent courses and can be taken in either order.

CHM3434

4

Physical Chemistry 2 Lab

Laboratory experiments supporting topics covered in CHM3434. Note: CHM3431 and CHM3441 together are equivalent to CHM3442. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: CHM 3434.

CHM3441

1

Intermediate Inorganic Chem

Course not found.

CHM3453

3

Circuits and Electronics

Fundamental laws. Circuit parameters, elementary network theory. Forced and transient response, semi-conductor devices, electronic circuits, digital logic and counting circuits. The course includes hands-on experiments. The following courses can be taken concurrently with this course: MCS 2423, PHY 2423.

EEE2123

3

Statics

A first course in engineering mechanics which covers the following topics: Vector Algebra, resultant of force systems; equilibrium of particles, rigid bodies using free-body diagrams; friction; centroids; moments of inertia.

EGE2013

3

Technical and Prof Comm

Training in a systematic method for producing effective technical communication, written reports, letters, and memos as well as oral presentations. Lecture 3 hours. 3 hours credit

COM2103

3

Total Credits:

17

Spring Semester

Course Name
Course #
Credits
Physical Chemistry 1

The First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics, with applications to phase transformations and chemical reactions. Introduction to quantum theory. Lect. 3 hrs. 3 hours credit Note: CHM3423 and CHM3434 are independent courses and can be taken in either order.

CHM3423

3

Physical Chemistry 1 Lab

Laboratory experiments supporting topics covered in CHM3423. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: CHM 3423.

CHM3431

1

Dynamics

Kinematics and kinetics of particles, rigid bodies, and systems of particles and rigid bodies will be analyzed by the classical methods; vibrations of single degree of freedom systems. Lecture 3 hrs.

EME3043

3

Mechanics of Materials

Stress as internal force intensity. Stress and deflections due to: axial torsional, and bending; loads and design of an efficient structure.

EME3013

3

Thermodynamics

Thermodynamic systems, the first law of thermodynamics, transient and steady flow processes, physical properties, the second law of thermodynamics, reversible and irreversible processes, the property entropy, vapor and gas power cycles.

EGE3003

3

Leadership in Scientific Research

Student expectations include literature research, project planning, proposal writing, and presentation. The course will develop project management and conflict resolution skills aligned with academic and industrial best practices. Students will evaluate ethical behavior and leadership models emphasizing the context of cultural diversity and sociopolitical impacts of scientific research. During the course, students will choose a senior research project and advisor and submit a project proposal.

PSC3002

2

Total Credits:

17

Fall Semester

Course Name
Course #
Credits

Technical Elective
CHM/EME

XXX3

3

Heat Transfer

Steady and transient conductive heat transfer; radiative heat transfer, forced and free convention heat transfer, psychometrics. Design of heat exchangers. Lecture 3 hrs. The following course can be taken concurrently with this course: EME 3024.

EME4013

3

Fluid Mechanics

Topics include fluid statics; conservation of mass, momentum, and energy; dimensional analysis and similitude; and pipe flow. Laminar and turbulent boundary layers; lift and drag on immersed bodies, potential flow, compressible flow.

EME3123

3

Jr./Sr. LLT Elective

3/4XX3

3

Senior Project 1

Initiation of a senior project in chemistry, normally involving a literature search followed by laboratory studies and/or computational calculations. Students will select and work with faculty advisors on the project. The subject matter of the project requires prior approval. Environmental Chemistry majors must include a field study as part of the project. A written proposal and public presentation are required before proceeding to CHM 4921, 4922, or 4923. Course fee: $60.00.

CHM4912

2

Total Credits:

14

Spring Semester

Course Name
Course #
Credits
Advanced Organic Chem

Kinetics and mechanism in organic chemistry. Lect. 3 hrs. 3 hours credit

CHM4723

3

Thermal Science Lab

The study of heat transfer, fluid flow, thermodynamics, mechanical dynamics, data acquisition, and control. Experiments illustrate each topic and reports are written for each experiment.

EME4412

2

Instrumental Analysis Lab

Laboratory problems involving chemical analysis by atomic absorption, X-ray analysis, gas and liquid chromatography, and voltammetry. Lect. 1 hr. Lab 3 hrs. 2 hours credit

CHM4632

2

Nanomaterials

The emerging nanotechnology is fundamentally based on the ability to create new materials at the nanoscale. This course provides an overview of the synthesis and properties of nanomaterials. Topics include materials at reduced dimensions, methods of nanoscience, properties and applications at the nanoscale, and the impact of nanomaterials on health, environmental and infrastructure.

CHM4023

3

Jr./Sr. Elective
SSC/PSY

3/4XX3

3

Senior Project 2

Completion of senior project in chemistry involving laboratory study and/or computer simulation, culminating in a written report and public seminar. Course fee: $60.00.

CHM4922

2

Total Credits:

15

Careers

A degree in biology, chemistry, or physics is the first step to many great careers in research, medicine, or industry, and the careers listed below are just some of excellent options. Through a commitment to hands-on learning, individual attention from faculty mentors, and real-world experiences through research and internships, the Department of Natural Sciences helps prepare you to succeed in whatever your next step may be.

The careers listed below may require further education. LTU ensures you are prepared for your next steps by helping you confidently pass the MCAT, GRE, or any required continuing education exams.

Career

Median Yearly Salary

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