PhD Timeline

Your Path to ChE PhD

Earning a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at Purdue is a structured, milestone-driven journey — from selecting a faculty advisor and completing coursework, to passing key exams and defending original thesis research that advances the field.

Year 1

Foundation

Select a major professor, begin graduate coursework toward the 30-credit requirement.

Year 2

Qualifying

Complete remaining coursework; pass the Ph.D. Qualifying Procedure (Qual); serve as a Teaching Fellow.

Year 3

Candidacy

Pass the Preliminary Examination and advance to candidacy. Teaching Fellow duties continue as research becomes the primary focus.

Year 4-5.5

Completion

Complete original thesis research; write and defend the dissertation at the Final Examination.

How to Apply

  • 3.0 Minimum GPA
  • GRE Optional Not required for admission
  • Dec 1 Fall Application Deadline
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation Required
  • ~2 Pages Statement of Purpose (Recommended Length)
  • 80 / 6.5 TOEFL / IELTS (International Applicants)

Discover Groundbreaking Research

RESEARCH AREAS FOR GRADUATE STUDY

Purdue ChE graduate students research across five areas, from bioengineering and biotechnology to process systems engineering, working alongside internationally recognized faculty. No one takes a giant leap alone, so our students collaborate across labs and disciplines and keep going, again and again and again. Explore the areas below to find where you fit.

Learn More about Research

PhD Program Highlights

Competitive Stipend

Earn a $40,000 annual stipend. With a low cost of living in the Greater Lafayette area, it goes a long way.

Teaching Experience

Every PhD student serves as a Teaching Assistant for two semesters, and more teaching opportunities are available if you want them.

A Community of 130 to 150

Join 130 to 150 PhD students in the School of Chemical Engineering.

We'll Pair You with Faculty

Applications are reviewed by a department-wide committee, so you don't need to contact faculty first. In your first semester, our advisor selection process pairs you with an advisor and a research project.

Apply from Any Background

No master's degree needed, and your undergrad degree doesn't have to be in chemical engineering. We regularly admit students from other disciplines, and after a transcript review, you'll take additional courses if needed.