The Chemical and Nano Engineering graduate programs at UC San Diego offer advanced studies in cutting-edge fields. Admission is competitive and requires a strong academic background. Applicants are evaluated based on their qualifications, goals, and suitability for the specific program. A Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, sciences, or mathematics is generally required, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. For Master of Science (M.S.) programs, the application opens on September 3, 2025, with a primary deadline of July 15, 2026, and an early decision deadline of January 14, 2026, for Fall 2026 admission. For Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs, the application also opens on September 3, 2025, with a deadline of December 10, 2025, for Fall 2026 admission. Interested applicants are encouraged to attend information sessions to learn more about the Master's programs. Official transcripts and other application materials are typically not required until an offer of admission has been extended. For any questions, you can reach out to NE-GradInfo@ucsd.edu.
Submission of GRE scores is optional for Fall 2026 admissions. Students scoring below minimum English proficiency requirements are encouraged to enroll in an English as a Second Language program. Official transcripts and hard copy materials are not needed until an admission offer is made.
Tuition and fees remain the same regardless of instructional method (remote or in-person). Approved or proposed amounts are subject to change by the University of California.
A Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, sciences, or mathematics is generally required with a minimum GPA of 3.0. For the Chemical Engineering program specifically, an applicable chemical engineering background is recommended.
International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency with a minimum score of 85 on the TOEFL iBT, 7.0 on the IELTS, or 120 on the Duolingo English Test.
The primary application deadline for the M.S. program for Fall 2026 admission is July 15, 2026, with an early decision deadline of January 14, 2026.
Estimated non-California resident tuition and fees for a comparable graduate program are $114,095 (on campus) or $114,587 (off campus) for the 2026-2027 academic year. Estimated living expenses are around $31,056 (on campus) or $31,548 (off campus).
GRE scores are optional for Fall 2026 admissions.