College of Engineering
Chemical Engineering (Ph.D.)
College of Engineering
Chemical Engineering (Ph.D.)
Where Big Ideas Become Breakthrough Technologies. Become a Doctor of Chemical Engineering.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering at New Mexico State University prepares visionary engineers to lead in research, discovery, and innovation across chemical, energy, materials, and process systems. This rigorous, research-intensive doctoral program blends advanced coursework with original dissertation research to develop deep technical expertise and independent problem-solving skills. Students build mastery in core areas such as thermodynamics, transport phenomena, numerical methods, and reactor design before pursuing cutting-edge research in collaboration with faculty.
Designed for students holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree in chemical engineering or a closely related field (with adequate preparation), this Ph.D. challenges you to extend the boundaries of knowledge, contribute to scholarly literature through publication, and prepare for leadership roles in academia, industry, government, or entrepreneurship.
Admission Deadlines
March 1 (fall), October 1 (spring)
- Total credits: 54
- Total dissertation credits: 24
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at New Mexico State University pursue high-level careers as research scientists, university faculty, and technical leaders across industry, government, and national laboratories. Alumni apply advanced expertise in energy, materials, sustainability, and process innovation to solve complex global challenges, lead cutting-edge research, and drive technological advancement in diverse, high-impact sectors.
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at NMSU?
Choosing the Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering at NMSU means joining a program that values rigorous scholarship, creative problem-solving, and impactful research. Here’s what sets it apart:- Deep Technical Mastery + Research Excellence: The curriculum encompasses advanced core courses such as graduate thermodynamics, transport phenomena, numerical methods, and reactor analysis, building a solid technical foundation before students transition fully into dissertation research.
- Original Research with Publication Expectations: Ph.D. candidates are required to complete two archival research papers accepted or published in recognized journals before their dissertation defense — ensuring competitive, publication-ready outcomes that strengthen professional portfolios.
- Flexible Entry with Advanced Standing: The program welcomes students with either a B.S. or M.S. in chemical engineering, tailoring the credit and research plan accordingly to maximize research productivity and depth.
- Collaborative Faculty Mentorship: Students work closely with faculty mentors on independently designed research, gaining experience in experimental design, modeling, data interpretation, and scholarly communication — a foundation for leadership in both academia and industry.
- Broad Impact Across Industries: Chemical engineering research at NMSU spans environmental systems, sustainability, environmental remediation, and more, enabling graduates to contribute solutions to complex global challenges and emerging technology sectors.
Carnegie R1 Institution
The R1 designation represents the highest level of research excellence placing NMSU among the top 5% of universities nationwide.
Students complete a total of 30 credit hours of graduate coursework, a minimum of 24 credit hours of research, pass a written qualifying examination (administered during the first year of full-time study), an oral comprehensive examination, and submit and defend an acceptable dissertation based on independent investigation in a field of study approved by the advisory committee.
The PHD also requires publication including refereed journal paper accepted and a second one accepted or in review by graduation. The Ph.D. dissertation can be a compilation and reformatted version of these published or accepted journal papers.
Take classes like:
- CHME 594 – Professional Communication in Chemical Engineering
- CHME 542 - Graduate Reactor Analysis and Design (s)
- CHME 501 - Graduate Thermodynamics for Chemical Engineers
- CHME 516 - Graduate Numerical Methods in Chemical Engineering
GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission.
Academic Background: A B.S. or M.S. degree in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field with adequate preparation is required.
Application: The application includes transcripts, three letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and resume. The GRE is required.
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Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.