Chemical engineering is the use of science, mathematics, and economics to convert starting materials or chemicals into more useful forms. We do this through operations called chemical processes, which often consist of many separate steps.  Such chemical processing results in thousands of products that are part of virtually every aspect of our lives:

• Medicines that protect our health
• Components of our homes
• Foods that we eat
• Fuels that power our vehicles
• Etc., etc.

Chemical engineers use the principles of chemistry, mathematics, and physics to design and operate the various steps that make up complex chemical processes.

One very good way to obtain a greater understanding of the chemical engineering field and to determine your interest and aptitude for this field is to enroll in Ch En 170, Introduction to Chemical Engineering, in either Fall or Winter semester. Students in the class become familiar with chemical engineering by working on a semester-long design project. The book was written by two BYU ChemE faculty members and is now being used by other universities as well. After completing the course, students often remark that they have a much better understanding of what chemical engineering is all about and have a better idea as to their interest and potential to succeed in the field.

Another good way to learn more about chemical engineering and about the Department of Chemical Engineering at BYU is to view our department video. Come in to the department office at 350 Clyde Building and we will be happy to let you watch it and help you evaluate your interest. If you live outside the area and would like to see the video, give us a call at (801) 422-2586 or email us at cheme@byu.edu and we will be happy to send you the video. We would appreciate it if, after you have watched it, you will donate it to the career counseling center at your high school or local college.

Additional links about what Chemical Engineers do: 1 2 3 4 5