UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA · UNITED STATES
Chemical Engineering, Ph.D.
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- No. 8 Public UniversityRanked by Forbes Magazine
- Guaranteed Financial SupportFor Ph.D. students in good academic standing
- Fall Quarter Admission OnlyApplication deadline is December 10th
- Comprehensive AssessmentAdmission considers undergraduate records, research experience, interests, and references
The University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) offers a Ph.D. program in Chemical Engineering designed to prepare students for advanced research and development in the field. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles coupled with rigorous research experience. Admission is highly competitive and based on a comprehensive evaluation of an applicant's academic record, research potential, and statement of purpose. All admitted Ph.D. students are guaranteed financial support throughout their studies, provided they maintain good academic standing.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the application deadlines for the Chemical Engineering Ph.D. program?
- The application deadline for Fall Quarter admission is December 10th of the year prior to enrollment.
- What are the minimum GPA and English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. English proficiency can be demonstrated with an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher, a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or better (taken before Jan 2026), or a Duolingo English Test score of 115 or higher.
- Is financial support guaranteed for Ph.D. students?
- Yes, all admitted Ph.D. students are guaranteed financial support throughout their studies, provided they maintain good academic standing. This may include fellowships, TA, or GSR positions.
- What documents are required for the Ph.D. application?
- Required documents include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose detailing research interests. English proficiency test scores must also be submitted.
- Where can I find information on tuition fees and living costs?
- Tuition and fee details for international students are not specified. Prospective students should consult the UCSB Registrar's Office for general graduate tuition, campus-based fees, and cost of living estimates.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Chemical Engineering Ph.D. program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research and development in industry, and government laboratories.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeMust hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an institution of acceptable standing. The program of preparation should be substantially the same as the requirements for a comparable degree at UCSB.
GPAMinimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
IELTS6.5 or higher
TOEFL (iBT)80 or better (taken before Jan 2026), 4.5 (iBT Home Edition taken Jan 2026 or later)
Duolingo English Test115 or higher
UC-transferable college courseGrade of 'C' or better in English composition (3 semester or 4 quarter units)
English proficiency scores must be sent directly from the testing agency and are valid for two years from the exam date. Only the highest composite score from a single sitting is allowed; UC does not accept IELTS One Skill Retake or MyBest TOEFL.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fee details for international students are not specified for the Chemical Engineering Ph.D. program. Prospective students should consult the UCSB Registrar's Office for general graduate tuition and campus-based fees.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fee details for domestic students are not specified for the Chemical Engineering Ph.D. program. Prospective students should consult the UCSB Registrar's Office for general graduate tuition and campus-based fees.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided. Prospective students should refer to the UCSB Registrar's Office or Financial Aid office for general cost of living estimates.
Campus-based fees are updated annually and are not based on a student's fee cohort. Refer to the UCSB Registrar's website for the most current fee schedules.
How to apply
1. Review Frequently Asked QuestionsBefore applying, thoroughly read the program's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on admissions for important information.
2. Complete the Online ApplicationApply online through the UCSB Graduate Division's eApp system.
3. Submit Required DocumentsThis typically includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose detailing research interests.
4. Provide English Proficiency ProofIf required, ensure your English language proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo) are sent directly from the testing agency to UCSB.
5. Address Application FeeAn application fee is required. Information on fee waivers is available through the UCSB Graduate Division website. The Chemical Engineering Department may sponsor fees for a limited number of applicants who meet specific criteria; contact the department for details.
Frequently asked questions
What are the application deadlines for the Chemical Engineering Ph.D. program?
+
The application deadline for Fall Quarter admission is December 10th of the year prior to enrollment.
What are the minimum GPA and English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. English proficiency can be demonstrated with an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher, a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or better (taken before Jan 2026), or a Duolingo English Test score of 115 or higher.
Is financial support guaranteed for Ph.D. students?
+
Yes, all admitted Ph.D. students are guaranteed financial support throughout their studies, provided they maintain good academic standing. This may include fellowships, TA, or GSR positions.
What documents are required for the Ph.D. application?
+
Required documents include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose detailing research interests. English proficiency test scores must also be submitted.
Where can I find information on tuition fees and living costs?
+
Tuition and fee details for international students are not specified. Prospective students should consult the UCSB Registrar's Office for general graduate tuition, campus-based fees, and cost of living estimates.
What are the career prospects after completing the Chemical Engineering Ph.D. program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research and development in industry, and government laboratories.