Welcome to UMD's Chemical Engineering Department!

Engineering at UMD and the Department of Chemical Engineering ranked high by US News in 2008 in the category of "Best undergraduate engineering programs" at schools that focus on undergrads, or "Engineering schools whose highest degree is Bachelors or Masters,": 4th nationwide for best Chemical Engineering programs (ranked 2nd among public universities).

ChE Highlights GoldPASS! Dedicated, qualified faculty and staff Student-centered, accredited, four year program. Information on Admission Requirements, General Requirements, and Program Requirements can be found at: ChE Program Details. Students may be interested in Environmental Science as a major or minor. The program offers several tracks for a student to focus their studies: climate processes, environmental chemistry, global resources, habitats, and quantitative methods. Minor in environmental engineering. Mission and educational objectives to pursue knowledge and its application for the betterment of society. Develops the student's technical, communication, and leadership skills. Promotes chemical process safety and ethics. Prepares graduates for professional engineering registration and licensure.

Iron Range UMD Graduate Engineering Education Program

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• Courses

Student Spotlight: Benjamin Egelske

College is a truly a challenging and rewarding experience. Greetings, my name is Benjamin Egelske; I am a junior in the chemical engineering (CHE) program at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD). UMD is an excellent university that has provided me with opportunities to develop both academically and professionally.

In September 2012 I became chapter president of the Society of Mining Metallurgy and Exploration (SME). With the help of club members and the regional organization I was able to organize tours to industrial sites as well as bring in professional speakers from the minerals industry. Some events of interest include a tour to Cliffs Hibbing Taconite and industry presentations. Besides SME, I am involved in The Minnesota Society of Professional Engineers (MNSPE), North Shore Climbers Club (NSC) and work as an undergraduate teaching assistant (UGTA). Taking an active role in student organizations is something I would advise for everyone; they allow you to find new hobbies and explore career paths before graduation.

I am currently working for the next 9 months as a co-op at Novaspect INC under the official title of "Control Systems Engineer". The position is focused around an Emerson software package called Delta V. This software enables any process to be controlled through a computer network. My project is centered on a specialty chemical plant where we are modernizing an older system. My responsibilities include programing logic to handle process operations, designing operator interfaces, troubleshooting networking issues, and configuring field devices. Controls engineering is just one of many fields that a degree in CHE can provide. By taking advantage of everything college has to offer, you will find a career that keeps you satisfied for life.

Past Student Spotlights

Allan Rudeck, Class of 1994, Inducted Academy of Science and Engineering

Allan S. Rudeck, UMD Chemical Engineering Class of 1994, was inducted into the Swenson College's Academy of Science and Engineering on September 30, 2011. Al is currently Vice President for Strategy, Planning and Asset optimization at Minnesota Power, an Allete Company. Al was honored for his leadership and service to his community, the profession, and the University. Al has been an advocate for the advancement of engineering and technology in his numerous roles at Minnesota Power and the communities they serve. He has advanced opportunities for all trades and crafts, contributed significantly through collaborative workforce development groups, led major economic development projects, and established some world class environmental awareness and performance metrics. He takes time to support continued education of all peers and coworkers, as well as offers help and support to those he leads. Beyond his many accomplishments in the industry, Al has been a leader in the community participating on levels ranging from community volunteer to city councilor.