Program descriptions

Chemical engineering

Chemical engineers apply the basic principles of chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics and related engineering disciplines to the production of goods and materials for society. Chemical engineers are the technological leaders in fields from the production of computer chips, to the design of pharmaceuticals and artificial organs, to the development of clean and affordable energy systems such as fuel cells. Students who start the freshman year in MATH 181 will be able to graduate in four years.

Industrial engineering

Industrial engineering (IE), which includes operations research and systems analysis, is a field of study for individuals who are interested in analyzing and formulating abstract models of complex systems with intention of improving system performance. Unlike other traditional engineering disciplines and sciences, the industrial engineering considers the role of the human decision-maker as a key component of the complexity of systems.

Materials science engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Materials Science & Engineering is designed to prepare students for a wide range of positions in the modern technological workforce. Materials engineers fill critical jobs in materials research, design, selection, and production.  They work in many technology sectors including materials production, advanced manufacturing, sustainable energy, aerospace, electronics, and nearly all fields of technology and manufacturing in between.

Student resources

Our department is committed to helping you succeed. From academic advising to student clubs and organizations, we encourage students to get involved in the department and take advantage of student resources.

Minors for chemical & materials engineering students

Batteries and energy storage technologies
Prepare for a career in batteries and energy storage technologies with the interdisciplinary minor at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Extractive metallurgy
This minor is open to all students in an engineering degree program except students in the extractive metallurgy emphasis of the B.S. in materials science and engineering program.
Manufacturing quality
Advanced manufacturing is an important part of Nevada's economy. Learn how to prepare for a high-tech manufacturing career at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Renewable energy
The minor in renewable energy provides students with the technical knowledge and economic and political background needed to understand important issues surrounding renewable energy

Accelerated programs

These programs allow highly qualified students to earn a bachelor's and master's degree in as few as five years.

Accelerated B.S./MBA
The College of Engineering, in partnership with the College of Business, offers a five-year program to earn both the Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Master of Business Administration degrees.
Accelerated B.S./M.S.
The accelerated B.S./M.S. program encourages outstanding students in the College of Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno to obtain a M.S. degree in a shorter amount of time.

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