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Applying to a Chemical Engineering course at a UK university or college through UCAS ? You will need to prepare a good personal statement . Use these Chemical Engineering personal statement examples as a guide to write yours.

Chemical Engineering Personal Statements

My fascination with chemistry is primarily fueled by a relentless intellectual curiosity. The intricate challenges presented by chemistry and mathematics captivate me like no other. I appreciate the significance of chemistry in today’s world, and I relish the opportunity to explore its enigmatic nature and diverse processes.

Chemistry is omnipresent in our lives – from the food we eat and the liquids we drink to the air we breathe. It has played an instrumental role in shaping the modern world. Our current way of life is possible through chemical innovations, such as the design of life-saving medications and materials for engineers and architects, and the creation of fertilizers to nourish the world’s ever-growing population.

A degree in chemistry opens the door to many career paths. My ambition is to harness my knowledge and abilities to benefit others. By joining the pharmaceutical sector or contributing to a company focused on enhancing human health through technology. I am adept at logical and creative thinking, seeking innovative solutions to seemingly insurmountable technical challenges. I am confident that my stellar academic performance, coupled with my passion and determination, will equip me for success in both my studies and future endeavours. I have a natural affinity for hands-on work, particularly in the laboratory.

Experimenting with novel solutions and concocting mixtures brings me great joy. I am captivated by the subject of chemistry, especially the art of balancing intricate organic reactions. The transformation of alcohol to aldehydes and subsequently to carboxylic acids piques my interest. As I delve deeper into the study of methane and carbonyl compounds, I am eager to uncover more about the nature of chemical bonds.

Chemistry Review is my go-to magazine, and I recently came across a fascinating article on arsenic poisoning due to contaminated well water, which can lead to various cancers. This toxic metalloid can also be inhaled, posing extra risks. Such complex compounds ignited my scientific curiosity, inspiring me to learn more about them. I have a keen interest in all scientific fields and aspire to broaden my expertise, culminating in a PhD.

Fluent in three languages, I have maintained an exemplary academic record. In a globalized world, linguistic skills are crucial, particularly for professionals in the scientific community. Chemists hold the key to addressing pressing global challenges – such as overpopulation, energy scarcity, pollution, and health risks – necessitating international collaboration.

During my time in school, I eagerly participated in volunteer work. I spent several months in a charity shop, honing my communication skills and understanding the needs of others. Additionally, I volunteered at a kindergarten, where I learned the value of teamwork. I tutored Lower Sixth students in science subjects, primarily mathematics and chemistry, and served as a Study Buddy for two years, assisting younger students with their academics. I am also a seasoned guitarist with four years of performance experience.

As a diligent, precise, and patient individual, I have traits that are invaluable for a research scientist seeking to unravel complex chemical conundrums. , I approach science with a creative mindset, embracing leaps of logic to identify solutions and uncover novel patterns. My unwavering dedication to my field, combined with the necessary attributes, makes me a strong candidate for a successful academic experience.

Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example

Ever since I was young, I have taken things apart just to see how they work inside. I am endlessly curious about the hidden mechanisms powering the world around me. Throughout my A-Levels , I have particularly enjoyed discovering how the sciences interconnect and build upon one another. Studying Chemical Engineering at university will allow me to apply my lifelong passion for understanding how things function to solve real-world problems and make a positive impact on society.

Chemistry has been one of my favourite A-level subjects because it provides mathematical insights into the unseen world of atoms and molecules. I was intrigued to learn about the Born-Haber cycle and how to calculate lattice energies based on the attractive forces between ions. It amazes me that such complex molecular interactions can be represented through simple mathematical relationships I already understand from Maths and Physics. I find great satisfaction in methodically working through problems, which will serve me well as an engineer.

My interest in Chemical Engineering stems largely from growing up in polluted urban India. Witnessing firsthand the environmental degradation caused by rapid industrialization made me want to be part of the solution. I am excited by the prospect of applying scientific principles to tackle issues like climate change and nuclear waste. I also appreciate the diversity of industries Chemical Engineering feeds into, from pharmaceuticals to petrochemicals. My AS Chemistry course has further sparked my interest, improving my practical skills and ability to study independently. Maths and Electronics A-Levels have also developed my numerical, analytical, planning and project management abilities.

In secondary school, I honed my teamwork and leadership skills in Young Enterprise and as a prefect mentoring younger students. As a peer counsellor, I cultivated strong listening abilities and attention to detail while guiding students struggling to fit in. Outside of school, I achieved second place in a Hindi speech competition, winning a 10-day tour of India where I met leaders across fields and visited landmarks like the Taj Mahal. Being multilingual in Konkani, Kannada, Hindi and English has enabled me to help classmates overcome language barriers too.

In my free time, I follow engineering news and magazines to stay up-to-date on the field’s latest developments. I also play competitive cricket, representing my school and local clubs. Team sports have taught me discipline, commitment and working effectively with others toward shared objectives. I hope to continue playing cricket at university and represent your institution.

Academically, I aim to read broadly beyond the curriculum. “Quantum Theory Can’t Hurt You” sparked my interest in quantum physics, while Dawkins’ “God Delusion” impressed me with its ability to break down complex ideas. I also try to be informed about current affairs. For example, a recent Economist article highlighted rising energy demands in developing countries. Studying Chemical Engineering would equip me to help create sustainable “green” technologies to address such pressing global issues.

My creative side has found expression through music. I began playing violin at five and expanded my skills on the viola and through ensemble work. Leading a “Checs group” I formed in 2004 taught me valuable leadership abilities. Making harmonious music requires understanding how each component complements the whole, which appeals to my collaborative spirit.

Balancing twelve hours weekly as a Waitrose cashier with studies has ingrained a strong work ethic and interpersonal skills that will aid an engineering career. Ultimately, my inquisitive mindset, passion for problem-solving and desire to make a positive impact make Chemical Engineering an ideal choice to fulfil my potential.

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  • Engineering Masters Personal Statement Sample

Written by Jennifer Bevan

This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in Engineering. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement .

With an ever-increasing population, the upscaling of processes to efficiently mass produce food, pharmaceuticals and chemicals is essential to society. From COVID-19 vaccines to vegan products, over recent years there have been many examples of manufacturing processes that have inspired me to specialise in the field of chemical engineering. The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the ability of engineers worldwide to suddenly and rapidly mass produce the coronavirus vaccines in order to save countless lives. In contrast to the abrupt demand seen in the vaccine industry, challenges also arise in keeping up with the constant growing demand for products such as vegan food. As I aspire to become a specialist in chemical engineering, I am applying for this Masters as the first step on my career journey.

During my undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering, for which I achieved a 2:1, I was able to select modules to cater to my interests, therefore studied materials and manufacturing and industrial management. These modules expanded upon the more basic principles introduced in the initial two years which allowed for a significant improvement to not only my technical skill but also the confidence in my ability to analyse and rectify mechanical failure. Through several of my core modules I developed my skills at utilising computer aided design (CAD) software packages such as SolidWorks for the design and analysis of products. For my final year project, I worked as project lead in a group to determine the advantages and disadvantages of additive manufacturing through the design and printing of a part. This allowed me to gain invaluable first-hand experience with fused deposition modelling machines and further refine my CAD skills, whilst developing excellent team management skills.

By the end of the second year of my degree, I knew my interests lay more towards chemical engineering and decided to undertake a placement year in industry. During this year I worked at a pharmaceutical company, adopting minor design roles within pre-existing projects and learning the importance of effective teamwork in producing a successful project. I attended several career fairs across universities and talked to students about the company, how best to apply and my experience working with them. This significantly improved my public speaking ability and communication skills, which are key for teamwork. I also gained some managerial experience during my free time as the president of the university running club. This involved planning and organising events, attending meetings with the student union and looking out for the welfare of members of the club.

I have applied to your university because of your excellent reputation in chemical engineering and am eager to study the specialist modules you have on offer, most notably pharmaceutical process development and advanced bioprocess engineering. On completion of my Masters I hope to pursue a career in industry and become a chartered engineer. This course would be an excellent opportunity to be at the forefront of chemical engineering technique development and to achieve a Masters accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers.

What are my options for studying Engineering?

Advanced structural engineering msc (campus), aberdeen university school of engineering, advanced mechanical engineering msc, advanced chemical engineering msc, civil engineering - msc, university of glasgow college of science and engineering, master of engineering in geotechnical engineering with structural engineering, atlantic technological university online, flexible and professional development, find a masters in engineering.

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Writing Chemical Engineering Master’s Personal Statement

Table of Contents

Are you considering pursuing a master’s degree in chemical engineering? If so, you may be wondering what it takes to stand out among a competitive pool of applicants. One of the most important factors that can set you apart is your statement. A properly written  chemical engineering master’s personal statement  can boost your chances of getting accepted to your school of choice. 

A personal statement is vital as it is your opportunity to showcase your unique qualifications, goals, and passion for science and technology. It also allows you to demonstrate your experiences in chemical engineering. This article explores why a personal statement is important for your chemical engineering master’s degree application. It provides several examples to guide you in creating a compelling personal statement.

Chemical Engineering Personal Statement and Why it is Important

A personal statement highlights your educational and professional background and experiences . It is often required as part of a graduate school application, such as for a master’s degree program in chemical engineering.

A personal statement showcases your motivation for pursuing a career in chemical engineering. It highlights your relevant academic and professional experiences, and your goals for the future. The purpose of the personal statement is to give the admissions committee a sense of your personality, interests, and suitability for the program.

There are a few reasons why a personal statement is important for a master’s degree program in chemical engineering. They include:

  • It allows you to stand out from other applicants applying for the chemical engineering program.
  • Allows you to showcase your writing and communication skills which are important in chemical engineering.
  • Helps the admissions committee get to know you in depth.
  • It also helps the admission committee pick an interest in your application.

How to Write a Chemical Engineering Master’s Personal Statement

round clear glass on white paper

  • Start by introducing yourself and providing background information about your academic and professional experiences. You should include information about your undergraduate degree in chemical engineering. Or a related field and any relevant internships or work experience you have had.
  • Explain why you are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in chemical engineering.
  • Next, discuss any relevant research or projects you have completed in the past and how these have prepared you for graduate study. This could be laboratory experience or publications you have written.
  • Then, highlight relevant skills or qualities such as technical skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork experience, or leadership abilities.
  • Conclude your statement by reiterating your goals and motivations for pursuing a graduate degree in chemical engineering. Explain how the specific program you are applying to align with these goals.
  • Remember to proofread your statement carefully and have someone else review it before you submit it.

Chemical Engineering Master’s Personal Statement Examples

I am an enthusiastic and passionate chemical engineering graduate with a wealth of knowledge and experience over the last four years. I have excelled in my studies, earning high marks in all areas, particularly when it comes to laboratory experiments involving complex processes. My skill set has enabled me to contribute decisively to multiple research projects.

I find chemical engineering deeply absorbing; it fascinates me and motivates me to reach for the stars. The combination of laboratory work and theoretical study gives me great satisfaction, allowing me to express my creativity while simultaneously pushing myself academically. Moreover, I am eager to continue working on complex problems and using them to develop my skill set further.

A master’s degree in chemical engineering would allow me to expand upon what I have already achieved and challenge myself further. My career goals are ambitious – I aspire to become a leader in the industry, making pioneering breakthroughs that push the boundaries of existing knowledge. To fulfill these ambitions, I need access to more sophisticated tools and resources than those available to undergraduate students. A master’s training will provide me with the platform necessary to take my understanding of this subject matter to the next level. 

I am confident that by dedicating myself fully to a Master’s degree program, I can achieve my dream. Having worked hard throughout my Bachelor’s studies, I possess the qualities required to excel. This includes strong analytical capabilities, unwavering dedication, creative flair, and an intrepid attitude toward challenges. Combining these attributes with state-of-the-art facilities offered at [Name of Institution] will allow me to pursue innovative solutions and realize grandiose ideas. With this being said, obtaining a master’s degree from your esteemed institution would be a capricious accomplishment. Enabling me to make substantial progress toward achieving my long-term aspirations.

I am an experienced chemical engineer eager to advance my knowledge and career by pursuing a master’s degree. My passion for this industry began when I was just a child, fiddling with household chemicals and creating mixtures out of curiosity. I completed my Bachelor’s degree at XXX University, where I excelled academically and developed strong interpersonal skills. Hence, I am now ready to pursue higher education and truly become an expert. 

As someone with excellent problem-solving abilities, and a knack for creative solutions, I can bring tremendous value to a top-tier graduate program. During my studies at XXX, I collaborated effectively on complex projects, showcased aptitude with advanced mathematics, and demonstrated understanding when identifying efficient production methods. My past internships have enabled me to build upon my expertise and better comprehend the inner workings of diverse manufacturing systems. These experiences have furthered my enthusiasm and determination to succeed in this sector.

I believe that obtaining my Master’s degree will provide me with the tools necessary to catapult my understanding and experience of chemical engineering forward. With this additional qualification, I am confident I can achieve unparalleled success in my professional and personal life.

I am an ambitious professional with years of experience in chemical engineering. Having completed a Bachelor’s degree in the same, I’m now looking to take my career further and pursue a Master’s program. My expertise lies in developing new processes that adhere to safety regulations while producing effective results. As such, I am passionate about problem-solving and finding creative solutions to challenging issues. 

I understand how to combine common ingredients in simple ways to create something unique – a skill that has been invaluable on various occasions. In addition, I can utilize colloquial language to explain complex concepts clearly and succinctly. This is paired with a capability for establishing connections between seemingly disparate ideas, helping me identify hidden patterns where others cannot. 

I have an insatiable appetite for knowledge, always striving to learn more about the field I find so captivating. With over five years of experience and excellent leadership skills, I believe I have much to contribute to any potential Master’s program. Enrolling in such a course would provide me with the perfect opportunity to explore the intricate elements of chemical engineering even further.

Having held numerous esteemed positions in chemical engineering for the past decade, I am passionate about pursuing a master’s degree to further my knowledge. It is imperative to me that my qualifications are consistently honed and developed. Thus, I have strived to challenge myself continuously with complex projects that allow me to harness my creative thinking abilities. 

As a seasoned chemical engineer with years of experience in the industry, I have long been passionate about tackling complex challenges. This ambition has driven me to pursue a master’s degree. This will allow me to gain an advanced understanding of the fundamental principles of my field and further hone my expertise as an engineer.

I am confident that this level of education would be invaluable to my professional growth. It will permit me to contribute significantly to any organization I work for. My capabilities include problem-solving, project management, risk analysis, design, and production optimization. All of which have been sharpened by leading technical teams in multi-faceted industrial contexts.

Moreover, knowledge is always advancing and evolving, so staying abreast of emerging trends is essential for any successful engineer. Therefore, I believe the Master’s program at your institution offers exceptional personal development opportunities due to its multidisciplinary nature and focus on cutting-edge research. To my understanding, you provide unparalleled access to resources and mentorship from some of the most prominent leaders in the sector. 

I relish the prospect of studying alongside like-minded individuals who share my commitment to engineering excellence. I am eager to make a meaningful contribution to the collaborative environment on campus. With my academic accomplishments, I am confident I can make valuable contributions during my time at your institution.

Having acquired years of hands-on expertise in chemical engineering, I now seek to bring this knowledge to a more comprehensive level. My enthusiasm for research and development within the domain has been shown through various projects during my time as an engineer. With each success came new insights into the potential of modern technology.

I am especially drawn to the intellectual challenges posed by advancing scientific innovation. A strong background in mathematics, physics, and fundamental chemistry has enabled me to become proficient with problem-solving. Additionally, my innate ability to collaborate with others has allowed me to leverage interdisciplinary teams and resources. It has enabled me to partake in fruitful dialogue while leading initiatives such as fuel cell integration or electrochemical production cells. 

A master’s degree would be a verdant opportunity to expand upon the knowledge I have amassed so far. And to delve further into topics such as molecular biochemistry and industrial processes. Moreover, it provides a crucial experience that will allow me to create innovations in the ever-evolving world of chemical engineering.

A master’s degree in chemical engineering is highly competitive, so you need to stand out. Following the steps highlighted above, you can craft a compelling personal statement that will set you apart as a top candidate . This is a crucial step towards achieving your dreams of making a difference in chemical engineering.

Take the first step towards obtaining your Master’s degree in chemical engineering. Write your statement using Hey INK .

Writing Chemical Engineering Master’s Personal Statement

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Guide

The importance of your university application cannot be overstated. What and where to study for at least the next three (or more!) years is likely to be the first big decision you’ll be making for yourself in life, so it’s important to get it right.

The process is a clear and structured one, but it demands considerable input from you. Perhaps the greatest personal contribution to your university application (aside from grades) comes in the form of the Personal Statement . This short piece of prose is multifunctional: it sets out to inform, intrigue, and persuade, which is no mean feat when you consider it’s limited to just 4000 characters.

Nevertheless, all applicants are in the same position and have to face writing it at some point; that’s where this guide comes in . It will take you through, one step at a time, how to draft a strong personal statement, and includes advice on:

  • Why are Personal Statements Important?
  • What Should I Include in a Chemical Engineering Personal Statement?  
  • What Should I Avoid in a Chemical Engineering   Personal Statement ?  
  • Advice on How to Start a Chemical Engineering Personal Statement
  • Advice on How to Finish a Chemical Engineering Personal Statement

personal statement for chemical engineering masters

What Should I Avoid in a Chemical Engineering Personal Statement ?  

‘Ever since I was a child’, and other similar clichés, are to be avoided at all costs . Instead of indulging in empty expressions, your statement needs to convey a genuine and substantial interest in the subject. Whilst no one is going to believe you’ve held this interest since you were five years old, you could instead describe your first realisation of the subject’s importance at school or college, for example.

You should avoid setting an informal tone since this is an official statement, and also avoid mentioning what may be deemed irrelevant , such as hobbies and interests outside the scope of chemical engineering or related subjects.

Register to access our complimentary e-book "So You Want To Go To Oxbridge? Tell me about a banana…"

Advice on How to Start a Chemical Engineering Personal Statement  

There’s no secret to beginning a personal statement, other than launching straight into why you’re interested in the subject and why you wish to study it . Remember that tutors have to read a lot of these, so try to give it a gripping (but not dramatic!) opening, and to come across as sincere and conscientious.

You want to mark yourself out as different from others by emphasising your unique qualities , as long as what you say doesn’t detract from the depiction you’re offering of your intellectual substance and diligence.

Use simple but appealing language, be direct and precise, and try to establish a positive impression from the outset.

If you're struggling to write the introduction first, why not begin by drafting some of the personal statement's main body first, then return to write the opening statement. It can be beneficial to get into the flow by writing about concrete things you have researched, before returning to the slightly looser introductory sentence.

Advice on How to Finish a Chemical Engineering Personal Statement  

The conclusion of the personal statement shouldn’t be there to cover everything you didn’t say earlier ; its purpose is to bring together your most important points about motivation, interest, and suitability for undertaking the degree.

Make sure you don’t repeat yourself, but remind the reader why you’re applying and of your potential as a student. Remember that this is the final impression a tutor will have before making you an offer of an interview or place, so it bears repeating that you should come across as likeable, astute and engaged , without seeming arrogant or that you know all there is to know before even starting the course.

Talking about commitment, what you’re looking forward to, and future plans are all good ways to finish a statement, but don’t waffle – keep to the point and communicate effectively.

  • What are some Tips for Writing a Strong Chemical Engineering Personal Statement?
  • How Long Should my Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Be?
  • What Kind of Extracurricular Activities Should I Include in my Chemical Engineering Personal Statement?
  • How Can I Tailor my Chemical Engineering Personal Statement to the Oxford/Cambridge Course?

As chemical engineering sits between sciences and engineering, it’s a good idea to show you know this and understand what it’s all about. As you’re hopefully already aware, chemical engineering focuses on industrial processes and chemical and physical transformations at different scales. You can go about showing your knowledge of this in different ways, but a good place to start might be to talk about your interest in the subject’s applications and industrial angles. When doing this, it’s also important to explain why you’re choosing chemical engineering and not a related subject.

The majority of chemical engineering degree courses will have overlaps with each other, so have a look at the courses’ content on universities’ websites and think about what you most like the sound of. This can be fed into the part of your statement that looks to the future, and it will prove you’re fully aware of what the course will involve.

The personal statement is limited to 47 lines of the UCAS form, or 4000 characters (including spaces). This means that you need to be selective about what you put in. It helps some candidates to write a list of everything they’d ideally like to include and then work on narrowing that down according to how much space they have available in the statement. Whatever you do, don’t force information into the statement just for the sake of making sure it’s included somewhere, as this will negatively impact the coherence and cohesion of the statement overall.

Typical extracurricular activities included in the personal statements of chemical engineering students range from tutoring younger pupils in maths and sciences to work placements and shadowing industry professionals. Don’t worry, though, if you don’t do any of those things. The most important point is that everything you include can easily be related back to chemical engineering and your desire to study it. This means that reading widely around the subject, or doing an activity like working in a chemist, are sufficient to demonstrate commitment to, and knowledge of, the subject beyond the classroom.

If you’re applying to more than one university, remember not to mention anything unique to Oxbridge, but you can always angle your statement towards their specialisms to a certain extent.

The Oxford and Cambridge courses are wide-ranging in their content and the skills they demand. Their admissions tutors want to see that you have a strong but flexible intellect, are curious and driven, and that you can manage challenges and competing commitments well. You should therefore try to relate what you say in the statement to skills such as these, as well as stating implicitly or explicitly how you would be able to develop the new skills that the degree would teach you, and that you look forward to doing so.

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22 November 2023

5 minutes read

Mastering the Art of the Chemical Engineering Personal Statement: Tips and Examples

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Dirghayu Kaushik

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  • Crafting the Perfect Chemical Engineering Personal Statement

Creating a standout personal statement for a degree in chemical engineering is crucial for your application success. This comprehensive guide offers invaluable insights, strategies, and real-life examples to help you develop a personal statement that resonates with admission committees and highlights your potential as a future chemical engineer.

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  • The Importance of a Personal Statement in Chemical Engineering Applications

In the realm of chemical engineering applications, the personal statement stands as a pivotal component, often tipping the scales in favor of the applicant.

It’s not merely a formality, but a crucial narrative that can significantly influence the admission committee’s decision. Here’s why it holds such importance:

  • Unique Narrative: Your personal statement is a unique narrative that adds a personal touch to your application. It’s your voice in the application process, allowing you to share your story, motivations, and aspirations.
  • Beyond Grades and Scores: While grades and test scores are important, they don’t convey the whole story. The personal statement fills this gap, providing insight into your personality, character, and suitability for the program.
  • Showcasing Genuine Interest: This is your chance to showcase your genuine interest and passion for chemical engineering. It’s about illustrating your dedication to the field beyond academic achievements.
  • Relevance of Experiences: You can highlight how your experiences, both academic and extracurricular, have prepared you for a career in chemical engineering.
  • Academic Preparedness: Discussing your academic journey, particularly in relevant subjects like math and physics, demonstrates your preparedness for the rigorous coursework in chemical engineering.
  • Linking Past Learning to Future Goals: You can draw connections between what you’ve learned and how it has geared you towards a career in chemical engineering.
  • Highlighting Key Skills: Chemical engineering requires a specific skill set, including problem-solving, analytical thinking, and teamwork. Your personal statement is an excellent platform to highlight these skills.
  • Personal Attributes: Mention personal attributes that make you a good fit for the field, such as resilience, creativity, and a detail-oriented approach.
  • Career Objectives: Use your statement to articulate your long-term career objectives in chemical engineering. This shows the admissions committee that you have a clear vision and are committed to pursuing a career in the field.
  • Contribution to the Field: Discuss how you plan to contribute to the field of chemical engineering. This could be through specific areas of interest, research goals, or career aspirations.
  • Stand Out: A well-crafted personal statement can set you apart from other applicants. It’s an opportunity to make a memorable impression, showcasing what makes you unique.
  • Personal Experiences: Share personal experiences that shaped your interest in chemical engineering. This can include unique projects, internships, or even personal challenges you’ve overcome.
  • Reflective Thinking: Writing a personal statement encourages reflective thinking about your academic journey and professional goals.
  • Self-Assessment: It’s an opportunity for self-assessment, to understand your motivations, strengths, and areas of interest within chemical engineering.

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  • Demonstrating Your Understanding of Chemical Engineering

This section is crucial for showing your depth of knowledge and commitment to the field. It’s not just about stating your interest; it’s about demonstrating it through experiences, understanding, and vision.

Showcasing Relevant Experiences and Projects

Discuss any projects, internships, or experiences that have provided you with a practical understanding of chemical engineering. Describe specific instances where you applied theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems, highlighting your problem-solving skills and innovative thinking.

Reflecting on Your Motivation and Goals

Delve into why you are choosing chemical engineering. Is it a fascination with how raw materials can be transformed into useful products, or is it the allure of tackling global challenges like the energy crisis? Link your personal experiences and observations to your long-term professional goals in the field.

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  • Highlighting Work Experience and Extracurricular Activities

Work experience and extracurricular activities can significantly enhance your personal statement by demonstrating your practical skills and commitment to chemical engineering beyond academics.

Detailing Industry Experience

If you have industry experience, such as an internship or placement, describe the skills you developed and how the experience solidified your choice to pursue chemical engineering. Explain the nature of the work, your role, and any key achievements.

Extracurricular Activities and Their Relevance

Talk about extracurricular activities, such as science clubs, competitions, or relevant hobbies, and how they have contributed to your understanding and passion for chemical engineering. This section is a great opportunity to showcase your teamwork, leadership, and organizational skills.

  • Integrating Personal Attributes and Skills
  • Highlight experiences where you effectively solved complex problems, especially in scientific or mathematical contexts.
  • Reflect on how this skill is crucial for addressing the challenges in chemical engineering.
  • Provide examples of situations where your analytical skills were tested and how you excelled, such as in research projects or advanced coursework.
  • Emphasize the importance of this skill in understanding and designing chemical processes.
  • Cite instances where you successfully communicated complex ideas, whether in presentations, reports, or group discussions.
  • Stress the relevance of clear communication in the collaborative nature of engineering work.
  • Discuss team projects or activities you participated in, highlighting your ability to work well with others.
  • Illustrate how teamwork is essential in the field of chemical engineering where large-scale projects often require collaborative efforts.
  • Share experiences where you took on leadership roles, such as in student organizations, sports teams, or group projects.
  • Connect these experiences to the leadership roles you aspire to take on in your future career.
  • Mention specific instances where your organizational skills were crucial, like managing events or balancing multiple assignments.
  • Link this skill to the structured and methodical approach needed in chemical engineering studies and practice.
  • Recall situations where you successfully adapted to new challenges or changes, perhaps during internships or extracurricular activities.
  • Highlight the importance of being adaptable in the ever-changing field of chemical engineering.
  • Talk about creative solutions you’ve developed for problems in your academic or personal life.
  • Show how creativity is vital in developing new processes and solutions in chemical engineering.
  • Describe your enthusiasm for learning new concepts and technologies, especially those related to chemical engineering.
  • Emphasize how this lifelong learning attitude is necessary for staying updated in the evolving field of chemical engineering.
  • Provide examples where your attention to detail led to success or prevented errors, particularly in scientific experiments or detailed analysis.
  • Connect this trait to the precision required in chemical engineering, where small details can significantly impact outcomes.
  • Concluding Your Personal Statement

The conclusion of your personal statement should leave a lasting impression. It’s an opportunity to summarize your key points and reiterate your enthusiasm and suitability for a degree in chemical engineering.

Summarizing Your Key Points

Briefly recap the main points of your personal statement, emphasizing your academic achievements, relevant experiences, and personal attributes. Reinforce how these elements come together to make you an ideal candidate for the program.

Looking Towards the Future

End with a forward-looking statement. Discuss your aspirations and how a degree in chemical engineering will help you achieve your long-term career goals. Convey a sense of excitement and readiness for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in your academic and professional journey.

Remember, your personal statement for chemical engineering is a unique narrative about your journey and aspirations in the field. It should be a blend of your academic achievements, work experiences, and personal insights, all woven together to demonstrate your enthusiasm, suitability, and readiness for a career in chemical engineering.

How long should my chemical engineering personal statement be?

Typically, personal statements are about 500-1000 words, but it’s important to adhere to the specific requirements of the university or program you’re applying to.

Can I use the same personal statement for multiple applications?

While you can maintain a similar structure, it’s advisable to tailor your personal statement to each program’s specific requirements and values.

What if I don’t have any direct experience in chemical engineering?

Focus on related experiences and skills, such as academic projects in physics or chemistry, that demonstrate your potential in the field.

Is it okay to seek feedback on my personal statement?

Yes, getting feedback from teachers, mentors, or peers can be invaluable in refining your statement. Just ensure the final submission is entirely your own work.

How important is it to proofread my personal statement?

Extremely important. Spelling, grammar, and clarity of expression are crucial in making a positive impression.

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Table of Contents

  • • Crafting the Perfect Chemical Engineering Personal Statement
  • • The Importance of a Personal Statement in Chemical Engineering Applications
  • • Demonstrating Your Understanding of Chemical Engineering
  • • Highlighting Work Experience and Extracurricular Activities
  • • Integrating Personal Attributes and Skills
  • • Concluding Your Personal Statement

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How to Craft a Great Personal Statement for Grad School

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Just as summer break wraps up, grad school application season arrives. You’re probably sorting through different programs and beginning to think about writing a personal statement. How do you winnow down your entire life story into two or three pages of spell-checked exposition that impresses administrators?

Personal statements are critical to your full application. They have the power to justify a poor GPA or emphasize an already good one. They can tell admissions committees what you dream of doing, rather than what you've done. They showcase your abilities and personality.

Your transcript can’t convey curiosity and perseverance, but your personal statement can unveil how you designed a clever spectroscopic experiment to explain weird voltage measurements in your electrochemistry lab. It’s your chance to share the stories and highlights of your life that have prepared you for graduate school.

Jahan Dawlaty , an associate professor of chemistry at the University of Southern California, says the best approach is to “make it anecdotal, personal, informative, and not a duplication of your CV.”

If you've never seen one before, check out a couple of annotated examples from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology . What you'll find is that these personal statements typically flow in chronological order, and they present the most important points as early as possible. They describe why you are where you are, some recent experiences, and some of your ambitions for grad school and beyond. They also describe why you are interested in a specific program. You should always customize your statement to each program you apply to.

But beyond that, they all look different. Some people begin with a story; others begin with a statement declaring why they are applying to this specific school. It's all fair game. Because at their core, the best essays are personal . And we’re here to give you tips on reflecting before you ever touch the keyboard, what to say once you do, and how to say it.

Beyond the résumé

When you begin writing your personal statement, it helps to reflect on your past and present experiences. Recall what inspired you to pick your major or what now drives you to apply to graduate school. “Show enthusiasm for the field,” says Dawlaty. “However, do realize that nearly everybody who applies to the chemistry department is enthusiastic about chemistry.” Specificity is key here. It might be a book that changed you profoundly, a time you sat next to a chatty scientist on an airplane, or a day you learned chemistry through baking bread with a grandparent. Describe your amazement when the sourdough doubled in size because of fermentation, for instance, or how different methods of kneading the dough led to different strengths of gluten protein networks. Really investigate what led you to chemistry and what you like about it.

Next, reflect on some of the most important experiences you've had in college. These may include an internship or volunteering experience . Perhaps you helped in a professor's lab for three months or three years. “Make it as personal as possible,” says Dawlaty. “Highlight as many of the memorable and personal anecdotes as you can.” Ask yourself, what did I learn in my internship that inspired me to continue on this path? How did my volunteer experience with my student chemistry club polish my organizing, planning, and professional skills? Basically, you want to point out where your extra efforts have shaped you as a scientist, student, and person. The answers are building blocks for your letter.

“I want to come away thinking I know a little something about you,” says Sharon Glotzer, the Anthony C. Lembke Department Chair of Chemical Engineering at the University of Michigan. If you’re driven by the societal impacts of science, highlight your specific motivations and previous contributions: Do you volunteer at a science museum, write a blog, or tutor kids in STEM? Recognize that scientists play an important role in their community, as well as society at large. You might instead be motivated by a passion for discovery or a pursuit of the credentials needed to lead interesting projects in industry. “I wouldn’t say that any one of those reasons matters over any other reason. But what does matter is that you have some reason,” says Glotzer.

A personal statement also gives you the space to share more context about the struggles you have overcome. Maybe a close friend or family member passed away, forcing you to balance your personal and professional obligations. If adversity has affected your grades, say that—admissions committees want to know. ”People want to know whether you have a GPA of 3.7 in the face of difficulties or a GPA of 3.7 without any difficulties," says Dawlaty.

“In some cases that hardship, surprisingly, prepares the student better for graduate school,” he continues. “We have had applicants who have been the breadwinner for the family—and wow , it takes a lot of responsibility to be the breadwinner for the family.” Some applications require diversity, equity, and inclusion statements in which you describe your experiences as or with a member of an underrepresented group or your feelings on the topic. If the application does not, consider incorporating some of your thoughts into your statement.

That’s not to say that you need adversity to get accepted, he adds: “Some people haven't gone through hardship. It doesn't mean that your application sucks.” You can talk about what you’ve contributed to a research group or a past job. For example, maybe you and a lab mate struggled to get a chemical reaction to produce a high yield, until you finally figured out the issue and fixed it. It doesn’t matter whether the solution came from an epiphany or methodical teamwork. Both are crucial ingredients of how real science works. Your essay will stand out if you can convey that understanding. “It communicates to me that you have good communication skills—that actually can tell me that these things happen,” says Dawlaty. “But most importantly, that tells me you are a problem solver.”

Grad school is not just about remembering the difference between reduction and oxidation or memorizing the steps to make an organic catalyst. It’s a place where you’ll collaborate, make decisions, and commit to learning skills that make you a more well-rounded scientist. (Some universities require a separate essay for research experience.) “Whether it’s a big role or a little role, I wanna see detail,” says Glotzer.  “The more technical detail you provide, the more I have the impression you did the work.” Admissions committees will appreciate reading anecdotes, especially if they demonstrate how you’d fit into a research team. After all, grad school is all about creating new knowledge and spreading knowledge. That’s a very different goal than undergraduate academics. They want to see that you know what skills and goals matter to become a scientist in society.

Predicting the future

Midway through your essay, you've established who you are by sharing what Past You experienced. A university will be getting Current You. They’ll expect that you can contribute to their research efforts. And they’ll be betting that Future You will be a rock star chemist that they can count as one of their esteemed alumni.

Think about your goals , state them clearly, and describe why they interest you. Here’s a secret: Nobody will force you to pursue that 10-year goal you write about. Nobody will even force you to work in the area you write about. I applied to various graduate schools for their energy and catalysis research programs. In my essay, I described my interest in their ongoing research in those areas. Once I visited my top choice after getting accepted, I found that an entirely different project in biomedicine and nanotechnology interested me even more.

It’s okay to end up on a different path than what you want now. And it’s okay to not know what field you want to study in. But for the admissions committee to accept you, they need to be sure that you'd fit with what they offer, so you can still write about what you do know. “Students can say I don't know what research area, whether it's energy or bio or nano—but I love computers, and I'd like to learn computer simulation,” says Glotzer.

Find specific professors and projects that match your interests. Mention those projects by name and explain why you'd enjoy them. Dawlaty suggests mentioning three to five professors in the department and writing one or two sentences about why you’d want to work with each. You will eventually meet with professors and decide on a lab to join. But you’re never guaranteed to land your first choice for reasons largely out of your control (such as project funding), so you should always set yourself up to have multiple options of interesting labs. “If you only say I'm interested in Professor X and that's it,” says Dawlaty, “it raises eyebrows in the committee.” It’s important for schools to see that they’d have no trouble pairing you with an advisor.

Don’t worry about misinterpreting what those professors work on or mentioning a project that’s no longer active. These scenarios happen. Perhaps “the professor hasn’t updated their website, or the professor has moved on since last year and got a new grant,” Dawlaty says. “We are not going to judge the student too harshly.” What’s important is that schools know that you’re interested in that research area. 

Some schools also combine the personal statement with a “research statement,” so you would expand more on your research interests at the end of the essay accordingly.

 “The bottom line is: make it easy for the committee to admit you,” he says.

How to tell your story

Clarity is king. The most important tip to remember as you begin writing is that you must communicate your ideas clearly. You may have exemplary research skills, strong professional experiences, creative ideas, and impactful anecdotes to share, but if the admissions committee can’t understand what they are reading, all that upside becomes meaningless.

Does this mean you need to find the fanciest words to show your mastery of the English language? Absolutely not. “Make it easy and efficient for them to read,” says Dawlaty. Short sentences are great. Specific, common words, too. Avoid hyperbole and exclamation points. Remember whom you are writing for. “Imagine sleep-deprived academics who are just sitting around and just want to do their job, and they have hundreds of these things in front of them.” They care about the facts. You can even bold important details like skills or the names of professors.

Now, readable and clear does not mean vague. “Chemistry is good” is a clear, short sentence with common words, but it lacks detail. You’ll want to be specific about your actions in anecdotes, and your feelings when describing why your research area excites you. If you’ve enjoyed creating nanoparticles, for instance, tell committee members a brief version of the synthesis and characterization protocol, then describe the satisfaction you felt from making the right stuff.

When you summarize the big picture of why you’re a good fit for that program, be specific about that program’s strengths and your potential contributions. And once you have all of the pieces of your story—your experiences, your interests, and your professional goals—then be sure that you summarize that ensemble in your first and last paragraph. Make your take-home message as memorable as possible.

A great way to make sure you’ve done a good job is to have others read your essay. Politely ask your professors or any chemistry graduate student you may know to give you feedback. Peers and family can also help if they are familiar with the process. Listen to that feedback and make the necessary changes. Doing this means you shouldn’t procrastinate. Give your proofreaders a couple of weeks, just as you would for letters of recommendation.

Don’t be afraid to ask peers or professors to see examples of successful personal statements. But don’t panic about any differences. It’s up to you whether you use a bunch of space expanding on experiences on your résumé or introducing biographical information that doesn’t appear in your résumé.

Your experiences make a case for what you can do. But your trajectory speaks volumes too. Dawlaty likes to think of this in calculus terms: hiring people based on an integral and a derivative. The integral, like the area under a curve, captures the collection of what a person has done; the derivative, like a sharp slope or a flat line, predicts their ability to grow and learn.

“We want a diverse class of individuals that are going to contribute,” says Glotzer. And that means broadening the definition of success beyond GPA,  GRE, and even research accomplishments. “There are so many different measures of potential for success, some of which have nothing to do with book smarts. A lot of which have to do with experience and mindset.”

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Personal Statement Examples

Interesting intros.

I am pursuing graduate education in chemical engineering because I want to work in a field that directly impacts society. I value practicality over abstraction, and engineering is ideal because it applies the concepts of math and science to real-world problems. In addition, I crave an immersive and focused academic experience that builds on my rewarding undergraduate career. A PhD program will allow me to pursue my research interests to a much greater depth while also expanding my future career opportunities. I hope to continue improving the teaching ability I have already developed in my past extensive tutoring and current biochemistry preceptorship. Finally, joining a community of likeminded individuals will be a valuable chance for collaboration and personal growth. 2

Having majored in Literary Studies (World Literature) as an undergraduate, I would now like to concentrate on English and American literature. I am especially interested in nineteenthcentury literature, women's literature, Anglo-Saxon poetry, and folklore and folk literature. My personal literary projects have involved some combination of these subjects. For the oral section of my comprehensive exams, I specialized in nineteenth century novels by and about women. The relationship between "high" and folk literature became the subject for my honors essay, which examined Toni Morrison's use of classical, biblical, African, and Afro-American folk tradition in her novel. I plan to work further on this essay, treating Morrison's other novels and perhaps preparing a paper suitable for publication. 1

Describing Experiences

On a personal level, these competitions helped me make friends all over the world, improved my confidence, and instilled in me a love of international travel. On an intellectual level, they exposed me to a wide variety of topics I would otherwise have never considered. I learned to think critically and examine an issue from multiple perspectives. I loved working past the rhetoric in my opponent’s speeches and pointing out flaws in their arguments. Sometimes I was given many months to prepare a topic, and sometimes I was only given two minutes. Whichever the case, I always had to be creative in developing and articulating my arguments. 3

I met Micah when I volunteered with Butterfly Dreams Farm Therapeutic Riding Program. Micah met the horses and was excited for his first ride, smiling brightly when he was placed in the saddle. I spoke to him gently and encouraged him to follow his therapist’s instructions. As the weeks passed, I kept speaking to Micah — describing the horse, giving words of encouragement, and saying his name often. One week, Micah responded to me. It was one of the few times Micah has ever spoken, as Micah is nonverbal. I am pursuing occupational therapy because of children like Micah.

Concluding Ideas

I am requesting admission to XYZ University’s MPH program in epidemiology. My previous epidemiology experience, academic preparation, and personal qualities have prepared me for the expectations of your program. My objective for graduate school is to combine rigorous academic study with hands-on experience, and I believe that ABC City and XYZ University offer extraordinary opportunities for these endeavors. Lastly, I believe that I can contribute to your program through research, publishing, and multidisciplinary collaboration. My goal is to utilize the intellectual richness and diversity of XYZ University to enhance the quality of life of the world’s people. 1

Shadowing showed me how difficult dentistry can be and motivated me to excel academically to become a successful dentist. I would like to continue to contribute as a dentist to my community— abroad and locally, like in XYZ country where Asaka got his first filling or in ABC free clinic where Jamie smiled proudly for the first time. Preventative dental care should be available at an early age, and I want to be a part of increasing that accessibility for all patients.

1. Purdue University. Examples of Successful Statements., 2. MIT: Chem E, Communication Lab. Graduate School Personal Statement., & 3. University of Toronto Law. Personal Statement Examples.

Chemical engineering (MS, PhD)

Extensive research facilities, world-renowned faculty and a distinctive research environment all come together to drive forward our innovative graduate program in chemical engineering.

The chemical engineering program is internationally recognized and competitive. Recognized among the Top 50 Chemical Engineering Programs by U.S. News & World Report, our students and faculty tackle real-world problems using multidisciplinary solutions to advance understanding and build a better tomorrow.

Graduate research opportunities in the chemical engineering program all look to transform matter and energy into useful technologies and products for society while advancing fundamental understanding. Fueling the discovery of innovative scientific advancements and technologies, graduate students in the Chemical Engineering Graduate Program will find a sense of purpose in their studies.

Here are a few areas of graduate research we offer:

  • Environmental Chemistry and Remediation
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  • Biomaterials and Therapeutic Technologies
  • Catalysis and Reaction Engineering
  • Inorganic Materials and Polymer Engineering
  • Particle Science and Processing

Degrees offered

Chemical engineering, ms.

The Master of Science (MS) program is designed to bridge the gap between knowledge of engineering sciences and creative engineering practice while at the same time increasing the depth and breadth of knowledge in selected areas of emphasis.

Chemical engineering, PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in chemical engineering requires completion of 84 credit hours. These hours include core/elective course work, research/dissertation and seminar credits.

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Application information.

The following application materials must be submitted directly to Graduate Admission Services:

If your institution sends electronic official transcripts, we accept the following electronic transcript services: E-Scrip, Parchment, Credentials Inc., and National Student Clearinghouse. All E-Scrip, Parchment, and National Student Clearinghouse transcripts must be sent directly to  [email protected]  from those transcript services or from the institutions that use those services. If you can and choose to use these services, you should apply online to the ASU Graduate Admission Services application prior to having your official e-transcripts sent.

If your institution does not use one of those transcript services, you will need to mail an official transcript. Your six digit application ID should be on the transcript envelope if possible.

Graduate Admission Services Tel: 480-965-6113 Web:  students.asu.edu/graduate

Application for admission

Can only be accessed online. Click here to go to Application for Admission

Application priority   deadline

Fall Semester: December 31 Spring Semester: August 1

A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed. An application is complete after all materials are received by Graduate Admissions.

Application fee

US citizens $70

Non-US citizens $115

This is a processing fee assessed by Graduate Admission Services and cannot be waived or deferred: graduate.asu.edu/admissions/how_to_apply

Transcripts and GRE scores

Transcripts.

Only official transcripts are accepted; no photocopies. These must be mailed to Graduate Admissions Services (see address above). For international students, transcripts must be in the original language, along with an official English translation. Also see:

Graduate Admissions Services:  students.asu.edu/graduate/apply

Resume, personal statement and letters of recommendation

List publications if you have any. It’s not necessary to send copies of articles. You will be asked to upload your resume in the online application process.

Personal statement

Essay describing your background, academic achievements, research interests, career goals, and why you wish to pursue graduate study in Chemical Engineering at ASU. You will be asked to upload your personal statement in the online application process.

Three (3) recommendation letters

The online application will ask you for three names and three email addresses for three recommenders; and the company/school for which they work. Your recommenders will receive an email and must submit their letter of recommendation electronically.

International applicants

Additional admission requirements for international applicants.

Admissions:  students.asu.edu/graduate/international

Visa/Immigration information 

students.asu.edu/international/immigration

English proficiency (for international graduate applicants)

A TOEFL, IELTS or PTE score is required by the graduate Chemical Engineering program, in order to be considered for admission.

  • Official TOEFL sent by ETS only. Minimum scores: iBT 100; pBT 600. Institution code for ASU: 4007; for department code, applicant may enter 0000
  • Official IELTS sent by issuing institution only. Minimum score: 7. No institution code is needed
  • Official PTE sent by Pearson only. Minimum Score: 65
  • Official TOEFL sent by ETS only. Minimum scores: iBT 90; pBT 575. Institution code for ASU: 4007; for department code, applicant may enter 0000
  • Official IELTS sent by issuing institution only. Minimum score: 6.5. No institution code is needed
  • Official PTE sent by Pearson only. Minimum Score: 60

You could qualify for an exemption from this requirement by one of the following two options:

  • This requirement would be met if you successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better; AND in addition, acquire a score of 50 or better on the Speak Test (must be taken at Arizona State University).
  • You successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better  OR
  • Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and earned a bachelor’s degree or higher in the U.S.,  OR
  • Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 12 credit hours of graduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all credits must be earned in the U.S.),  OR
  • Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 90 credit hours of undergraduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all 90 hours must be earned in the U.S.)

For  more information, visit the Graduate Admission Services English Proficiency Requirement and Exemption website .

Still have a question? Contact Advising

If you still have questions regarding admission requirements and procedures, please contact the SEMTE graduate advising office:

Phone: 480.965.2335

Email: [email protected]

Graduate Students

Application process.

To gain admission to the UW chemical engineering graduate program, a student must apply to both the UW Graduate School and the Department of Chemical Engineering. It is essential that both the Graduate School and the Department receive the materials they require by the deadlines in order to be considered for admission.

  • The UW Graduate School oversees all graduate programs. It collects basic application data and enforces certain minimum standards.
  • The Department of Chemical Engineering administers the chemical engineering program. It collects additional data (details of professional experience, honors, and letters of recommendation, etc.) and imposes additional standards. Its Graduate Admissions Committee—a group of three faculty members—reviews each case.
   

(prior year)
International applicants urged to have submitted all required materials
Domestic applicants urged to have submitted all required materials
Application review begins and continues until we reach our offer target. The application dates listed are not hard deadlines; we process late applications , but they are at a disadvantage.
Admitted applicants must either accept or decline our offer. If the number accepting is below our target, we might make additional offers.
Official closure of admissions

Those wishing to be admitted for winter or spring quarters must have completed at least one year of graduate coursework in chemical engineering. Please be advised that the chances of admission during off-quarters are sharply reduced because we do nearly all of our lab placements in autumn, and we typically have very few or no projects available for new students at other times of the year.

Step-by-Step Instructions for International Applicants

An international student is anyone who is not a U.S. citizen and does not hold a U.S. Permanent Resident Visa. International students already studying in the U.S. must also use this procedure.

  • Unless you are exempt , take the TOEFL (UW is phasing out accepting IELTS; any test with a date after Nov 1, 2016, cannot be accepted). Have scores reported to the UW (school code 4854). 
  • Unofficial transcripts and degree statements from each college and university you have attended (preferably in pdf format). Do not send official transcripts; if admitted, you will be asked to submit official transcripts directly to the Graduate School.
  • Letters of recommendation: Ask three people to provide evaluations. The most useful and influential evaluations are from professors and other technical professionals who know our program and have recommended other students. Include at least one professor from the school most recently attended. Designate these recommenders in the online application and request that the letters be submitted online (not mailed to the department).
  • Personal Statement: Please provide a statement (suggested length of 1 page) describing your goals for graduate school, your reason for applying to the University of Washington, and any other background information you would like us to consider.
  • Optional: resume/CV and writing sample. An article written in English, submitted to or published in a journal, is the only writing sample accepted; limit of one per applicant.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Domestic Applicants

  • Unofficial transcripts from each college and university you have attended (preferably in pdf format). Do not send official transcripts to the UW Graduate School or the chemical engineering department; if admitted you will be asked to send official transcripts directly to the Graduate School.
  • Letters of recommendation: Ask three people to provide evaluations. The most useful and influential evaluations are from professors and other technical professionals who know our program and have recommended other students. Include at least one professor from the school you most recently attended. Designate these recommenders in the online application and request that the letters be submitted online (not mailed to the department).
  • Personal statement: Please provide a statement (suggested length of 1 page) describing your goals for graduate school, your reason for applying to the University of Washington, and any other background information you would like us to consider.
  • Optional: resume/CV and/or writing sample. An article submitted to or published in a journal is the only writing sample accepted; limit of one per applicant.

Prospective Students

Graduate students in the Chemical Engineering program are students of the  Rackham Graduate School . Our admissions process is handled through Rackham, but all applications are reviewed and admissions decisions are made by our departmental admissions committee.

Making Connections

We match new students with research advisors in October after all new students are on campus. Contacting individual faculty members will not influence the admissions decision.  Learn more about admission criteria and requirements

Programs and Deadlines

Please visit our  admissions timeline webpage  for more information.

Doctoral ProgramDecember 1October 1*
Master’s & SUGS ProgramsJanuary 15October 1*

Applicants who ultimately want to earn a PhD should apply directly to the Ph.D. program. A Master’s degree is not required to earn a PhD degree.  Find answers to applicants’ most frequently asked questions .

There is no separate application for financial aid. All students who intend to earn a PhD will be automatically considered for aid. We do not make any offers of financial assistance to Master’s applicants.  Learn more about financial support .

Application Fee Waivers

A limited number of application fee waivers are available.  If you are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or undocumented student with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) status with financial hardship, you may be eligible for a Chemical Engineering Graduate Program fee waiver.  Individual Fee waivers will be awarded based on a review of the individual  Fee Waiver Request .

If you meet the fee waiver criteria and would like to apply for a fee waiver, please submit your  Fee Waiver Request  by November 20.  Application fee waiver requests will not be considered unless requested at this link.  

Please note that the Rackham Graduate School administers fee waivers.  Details are available here .

How to Apply

Submit the following:.

  • Statement of Purpose:  Statement about your academic and research background, your career goals, and how Michigan’s graduate program will help you meet your career and educational objectives).
  • Personal Statement:  This is not the Academic Statement of Purpose, but a discussion of the personal journey that has led to your decision to seek a graduate degree.
  • General GRE scores:  GRE scores are no longer required.
  • Three Letters of Recommendation:  Letters from professors and especially research advisors are generally preferred. We prefer that these be submitted electronically via the online application. The system will accept just three letters, but additional recommendations may be mailed to the department. Mailed recommendation letters should be sent to the department and accompanied by the U-M recommendation form available through the  Rackham website .
  • Transcripts: Applicants will scan and upload an official transcript/academic record that displays the institutional seal and signature of the Registrar or Recorder of Records into the online application.
  • Applicants will enter a “self-reported” GPA.  Note:  International applicants will be directed to a third-party website that provides a tool for converting their grades and GPA to a U.S. 4.0 GPA equivalent scale.
  • Official electronic or paper transcripts/documents are  only required if a student is admitted , and these must be submitted by the end of the first term of enrollment.
  • Scholaro GPA calculation is required for international institutions (Scholaro GPA Calculator).  Instructions are included in the application. Failure to use the correct grading scale when calculating your GPA could lead to the reversal of an offer of admission.

Additional guidelines are available at the  Rackham Graduate School Admissions  site.

Steps in the Admissions Process

Rackham Graduate School Admissions

Apply online »

Graduate Resources

Program Description

Degree Requirements

Graduate Contacts

Rackham Graduate School

  • How To Write Your Postgraduate Personal Statement

Choosing a university

  • Fairs and open days
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  • What are the differences between an undergraduate and postgraduate personal statement?

What's on this page?

What is a personal statement, preparing to write your personal statement, opening your personal statement, work experience and future plans, ending your personal statement.

Your postgraduate personal statement is your chance to get noticed for your expertise and experience you’ve gathered. It’s an important part of the application process as it allows you to talk about yourself and your passions and prove the value you can bring to your chosen university.

In this article, we’re going to talk you through how to write a postgraduate personal statement that stands out and gives you the best chance of being offered a place on the master’s programme you’re applying for. 

Shona Barrie – Director of Admissions, University of Stirling

You’ll have already written a personal statement for your undergraduate study, so you’ll know the importance of preparation. There are two things to think about when you’re planning:

  • The practical and factual information you need to get across.
  • Then, the more emotional, human parts of you that make you different to everyone else. 

Before you start writing, take some time to think about the key things you’d want your chosen university to know about you, and get them down on paper.

Questions to focus your mind

  • Why have you chosen this master’s programme?
  • Why are you passionate about this subject matter? 
  • How has your undergraduate study influenced your decision to apply?
  • Have you got any work experience that might help you?
  • What life experiences have you had that you could talk about?
  • What achievements can you talk about to support your application?
  • Why do you want to study at this particular university?
  • What plans and ambitions do you have for your future career?

personal statement for chemical engineering masters

Three top tips

Be specific.

Remember that a postgraduate personal statement needs you to talk specifically about the university you’ve chosen.

Demonstrate experience

Universities will be looking for postgraduate students who are able to demonstrate expertise in a particular subject – so include that.

Show what you've learnt

Tell the university about your university life as an undergraduate and include any clubs or societies you were involved in.

Admissions tutors will be reading a lot of personal statements so it’s important to grab their attention right from the start. 

You can find a full guide on How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber but here are the main things for you to think about. 

  • Don’t overthink the opening . Just start by showing your enthusiasm for the subject, showcasing your knowledge and understanding, and sharing your ambitions of what you want to achieve.
  • Avoid cliches . Remember, this opening part is simply about introducing yourself, so let the admissions tutor reading your personal statement get to know you. 
  • Keep it relevant and simple . You’re limited on how much you can include so avoid long-winded explanations. Why use 50 words when ten can make your point?

Talking about the course

Now you’re ready to start talking about the course and subject you’re applying for.

There are four main areas you’ll need to cover in this section of your personal statement. 

  • Why are you applying for this master’s?  Think about your undergraduate study and how this master’s will develop your expertise further. Do you have career aspirations this course will help you achieve?
  • Why does the subject interest you? This is your chance to show your passion and really demonstrate who you are. If you have work or volunteering experiences related to the subject, include them here.
  • Why do you think you’ll be an asset to the university?  Your personal and practical skills combined together create a unique picture of who you are and why you’ll be a successful postgraduate student, so include both. 
  • How does your previous undergraduate study relate to the course? Showcase your enthusiasm for your current study and take the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and knowledge now, and how you want to build on that. 

Next, you’ll need to write about your personal skills and achievements.

Universities like to know the abilities you have that’ll help you on the course, or generally with life at university. Don’t forget to include evidence to back up why you’re so passionate about the programme you’ve chosen.

Your personal skills and achievements

Be bold and talk about the achievements you’re proud of., include positions of responsibility you hold, or have held, both in and out of school., what are the things that make you interesting, special, or unique .

Your work experience and future plans are important to include in your personal statement. You should share details of jobs, placements, work experience, or voluntary work, particularly if it's relevant to your course. 

  • Try to link any experience to skills or qualities that’ll make you successful on your course.
  • If you know what you’d like to do after as a career, explain how you plan to use the knowledge and experience you’ll gain.

It’s always good to connect the beginning of your statement to the end and a great way to reinforce what you said at the start. You want to see the ending as your chance to end in a way that’ll make the university remember you. 

This final part of your personal statement should emphasise the great points you’ve already made and answer the question of why you should be offered a place on the course. 

Read our full guide on How to finish your statement the right way .

Aakriti Labra – MSc Occupational and Organisational Psychology, University of Surrey

Now you’ve written your postgraduate personal statement, you’ll need to do a couple of final things before you submit it. 

  • Have you proofread your personal statement? Don’t just rely on spellcheckers. We’d recommend reading it out loud as that’s a great way to spot any errors as well as checking it sounds like you. 
  • Have you asked for feedback? Ask friends, family or your undergraduate university tutors to have a read through your personal statement and take their feedback on board.
  • Check out our personal statement dos and don'ts Have a look at the common pitfalls against your final draft to make sure you haven't made any obvious errors!

Postgraduate

More advice.

Use the UCAS’ personal statement tool alongside this guide to help you structure your ideas.

Do you want to understand the differences between an undergraduate and postgraduate personal statement? Take a look at our guide here.

Why study a postgraduate course? Find out here.  

What funding is there for postgraduate courses?  

Sponsored articles UCAS Media Service

Five reasons to sign up to the ucas newsletter, how to find a job, student finance for postgraduate loans.

Dual Degree Engineering Program

Develop your innovation, leadership and management skills and build your technical depth with the School of Engineering's dual degree master's program. You’ll earn two degrees - an MS offered by Tufts Gordon Institute (on-campus Engineering Management , Innovation and Management , or Technology Management & Leadership ) and an MS offered by one of the six academic departments within the School of Engineering. And, you earn both degrees in an accelerated timeframe and at a reduced cost.

Program Highlights

  • Fast time to completion:  You earn two master’s degrees in just two years.
  • Reduced course load & tuition:  You can double count four courses toward both degrees, thereby reducing the total number of credits and the tuition cost required to earn both credentials .
  • Streamlined admissions:  Select the dual degree program option on our online application and the application process is simplified. You only need to apply once, and both admissions teams will review your application materials. This means you only submit your college transcripts, resume and standardized test scores once... And, best of all, you only pay one application fee.

MS Programs

Tufts School of Engineering offers a wide range of MS programs that qualify for the Dual Degree master’s program. Choose from the following School of Engineering programs:

  • Bioengineering
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Biophotonics
  • Chemical & Biological Engineering
  • Civil & Environmental Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Human Factors Engineering
  • Human-Robot Interaction
  • Materials Science & Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Offshore Wind Energy Engineering
  • Software Systems Development

Graduate Cooperative Education (Co-Op) Program

The School of Engineering's Graduate Cooperative Education (Co-Op) Program provides students with the opportunity to apply the theoretical principles they have learned in their coursework to real-world engineering projects. Gain up to six months of full-time work experience, build your resume, and develop a competitive advantage for post-graduation employment.  Learn more about the Co-Op Program .

Application Requirements

  • Application Fee
  • Transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • A minimum score of 100 on the Internet-based TOEFL, with subscores of 25 on each of the four components (reading, writing, listening, speaking) is generally considered evidence of sufficient English language ability for graduate study at Tufts Gordon Institute. Minimum equivalent scores of 7 on the IELTS (with subscores of 7) and 130 on the Duolingo are also considered indication of sufficient ability.
  • We suggest that you take the required standardized test at least one month prior to the admissions deadline; however, we can be flexible on a case-by-case basis.
  • GRE General Test scores are not required for the MSIM but may be required by the department administering the MS portion of the program; review MS application GRE requirements by selecting your program of interest from the list.
  • Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a 1200-1500 word essay that incorporates your responses to the required personal statement prompts for both the MSIM and the MS program for which you are applying. Review the suggested Master's personal statement prompt. The MSIM prompt is the following,   What sets successful students apart in the Master of Science in Innovation & Management (MSIM) program are their innate curiosity for seeking innovative solutions through collaborative problem solutions, their bias toward action, and a profound sense of purpose. Can you recall a time when you exemplified these qualities in your own endeavors? Share a compelling story that showcases a moment when you made a tangible difference. Detail how these traits resonate with you and provide examples of how you've embodied them throughout your academic or professional journey.
  • MSIM Optional Short Essay (please include at the bottom of your personal statement): If you would like, you may also submit an optional short essay (200-250 words). This essay is not required and should only be submitted if you feel it will provide the admissions committee with a more complete picture of who you are. Artificial Intelligence is the topic du jour. Tell us about a time where you used AI in a creative way to solve an academic or professional problem.

Tuition and Financial Aid

We recognize that attending graduate school involves a significant financial investment. Our team is here to answer your scholarship, tuition, and billing questions.

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Chemical engineering personal statement example 6.

I enjoy science because it personally interests me and can be applied and made useful in everyday life. At university I hope to study chemical engineering because I am good at chemistry and maths and would like to apply them to a practical course that is challenging yet rewarding.

I have good communication skills and enjoy solving problems using precise, logical methods and would like to study a course that involves and builds on these.

During the summer break I attended a Science, Engineering and Technology week and participated in groups in various workshops held by twelve different science and engineering disciplines (including Chemical, Civil & Physics). This allowed me to see the aspects of each and I decided that I wished to pursue a career in engineering using the application of science.

I subsequently contacted a number of different engineers to talk to them about their occupations in industry and found that chemical engineering best suited my personality and interests. In order to gain a practical insight into my chosen career path I am currently arranging work experience in a nearby oil and gas company and hope to observe what it is like to be an engineer with real responsibilities.

I would like to study a degree that leads to a fulfilling and successful career. For that reason I am also particularly looking forward to expanding my knowledge in business, I.T. and leadership in addition to the chemical engineering aspects of the course. I aim to become capable of taking my knowledge and competence into the workplace and serving as part of a multidisciplinary team of engineers in order to productively and economically complete projects.

I am driven by always doing the best I can and have received great feedback about my enthusiastic style, participation and for being proactive. I was nominated by my peers and staff to be a sixth year house captain and work alongside five others, largely to help younger pupils and set a good example.

This opportunity highlights that I am viewed as being responsible and has taught me how to resolve challenging situations. Other examples of my motivation to succeed include my fifth year exam results. I gained five A's at band one and received four prizes for marks leading to me being awarded Senior Dux.

At school I spend time on a weekly basis learning basic British Sign Language and hope to further my learning in this new language through Linlithgow Academy's links with Donaldson's school for the deaf. Outside school I hold a part time job at John Lewis which involves me upholding the company's excellent customer service values and requires me to be highly organised and hard working.

In my leisure time I enjoy running and regularly compete in 10K races, testing my determination and continually trying to improve my race times. However I prefer playing team sports such as football as I do enjoy being a team player. Over the past five years I have taught myself how to play guitar and bass guitar in my spare time as I find this useful in helping me to relax.

My overall goal is to achieve Chartered Status and a Masters degree in Chemical Engineering is my first stage in enabling me to combine all my attributes, strengths & career ambitions. The high standards expected in chemical engineering fit my personal motivation and love of achievement.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by ds722 for application in 2008.

ds722's Comments

Had to be done eh

This personal statement is unrated

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Engineering personal statements

Engineering student

On this page you'll find a collection of real personal statements written by students applying to study engineering and related courses at university.

These personal statements are written by real students - don't expect them all to be perfect! But by reading through a few of these samples, you'll be able to get some ideas and inspiration for your own personal statement. 

Engineering personal statement examples

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personal statement for chemical engineering masters

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personal statement

Hi this is my personal statement for applying to university, it's nowhere near finished but I just want some advice in conveying skills I have relevant to an engineering course. activities that I can include are:

- future work experience in Glasgow science centre (although not relevant to engineering, I believe it will expand skills relevant to STEM as a whole)

- an explore engineering event hosted by Edinburgh university in which I was able to explore the lab equipment used in engineering as a whole.

- I've already mentioned the project I am working on, and due to the project I was able to have a one-on-one interview with a project manager overseeing a lithium extraction project in which I was able to discuss factors about the processes and considerations that need to be made by engineers when starting projects.

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COMMENTS

  1. Graduate School Personal Statement : Chemical Engineering Communication Lab

    The graduate school personal statement tells your story and demonstrates that you are a good match for a particular department or program. ... See what language they use to describe themselves, and echo that language in your essay. For example, MIT Chemical Engineering's website points out innovative research areas and interdisciplinary ...

  2. Chemical Engineering personal statement examples

    Chemical Engineering Personal Statements. Example 1. My fascination with chemistry is primarily fueled by a relentless intellectual curiosity. The intricate challenges presented by chemistry and mathematics captivate me like no other. I appreciate the significance of chemistry in today's world, and I relish the opportunity to explore its ...

  3. Engineering Masters Personal Statement Sample

    Written by Jennifer Bevan. This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in Engineering. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement. With an ever-increasing population, the upscaling of processes to efficiently mass produce food, pharmaceuticals and chemicals is essential to society.

  4. Writing Chemical Engineering Master's Personal Statement

    Chemical Engineering Master's Personal Statement Examples Example 1. I am an enthusiastic and passionate chemical engineering graduate with a wealth of knowledge and experience over the last four years. I have excelled in my studies, earning high marks in all areas, particularly when it comes to laboratory experiments involving complex processes.

  5. Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example 10

    This personal statement was written by B.Adekunle for application in 2011. B.Adekunle's Comments. Offers from all uni's. This personal statement is unrated. Chemical engineering is a most fascinating field of all the branches of science and engineering. To me it truly reflects human endeavour and spirit through means such as the exploration of ...

  6. Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Guide

    Suitable for those aged 14 upwards. Chemical engineering is all about manipulating molecules to effect biological, chemical, and physical transformations. Your personal statement should therefore emphasise your technical and scientific competencies, while also acknowledging the applications of the subject in industry and the wider world.

  7. PDF program I participated in at the

    program I participated in at theI am pursuing graduate education in chemical engineering because I want to work in a fie. that directly impacts society. I value practicality over abstraction, and engineering is ideal because it applies the concepts of math an. science to real-world problems. In addition, I crave an immersive and focused ...

  8. Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example

    Birmingham - A*AA / AAAA offer. Greenwich - CCCC offer (112 UCAS tariff points) This personal statement is unrated. I've always been interested in the versatility and breadth of science, and I find Chemical Engineering to be the perfect balance of the natural sciences, offering a variety of real-world applications from fuels to food products.

  9. Chemical Engineering Personal Statement

    Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Submitted by Sebastian The ultimate basis of engineering is creating something for the purpose of enhancing life, whether that be through easing the difficulty involved in a task, reducing the time required, or minimising the necessary cost.

  10. Mastering The Art Of The Chemical Engineering Personal Statement: Tips

    Highlighting Key Skills: Chemical engineering requires a specific skill set, including problem-solving, analytical thinking, and teamwork. Your personal statement is an excellent platform to highlight these skills. Personal Attributes: Mention personal attributes that make you a good fit for the field, such as resilience, creativity, and a ...

  11. Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example (Postgraduate )

    This personal statement is unrated. I have always enjoyed studying Maths, Physics and Chemistry, and I would like the opportunity to continue this study. Chemical Engineering appeals to me because of the challenges involved in the application of scientific theory to practical, real world problems such as how to deal with nuclear waste.

  12. How to Craft a Great Personal Statement for Grad School

    Beyond the résumé. When you begin writing your personal statement, it helps to reflect on your past and present experiences. Recall what inspired you to pick your major or what now drives you to apply to graduate school. "Show enthusiasm for the field," says Dawlaty. "However, do realize that nearly everybody who applies to the ...

  13. Chemical Engineering Personal Statement

    Chemical Engineering Personal Statement. Personal statement - Chemical Engineering is becoming ever more vital to the safeguarding of our future society in the wake of concerns regarding the finite nature of natural gas and the need to find, and make viable, renewable energy resources. As a keen Chemistry student, it was through discussing ...

  14. Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science

    A bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, materials science, metallurgy, ceramics, polymer engineering, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, biological engineering, biomedical engineering, or related disciplines is required. Admission is very competitive. Most applicants accepted into the program have grade ...

  15. Personal Statement Examples

    Personal Statement Examples. I am pursuing graduate education in chemical engineering because I want to work in a field that directly impacts society. I value practicality over abstraction, and engineering is ideal because it applies the concepts of math and science to real-world problems. In addition, I crave an immersive and focused academic ...

  16. Chemical engineering degree personal statement example (1i) work

    This is a real personal statement written by a student for their university application. It might help you decide what to include in your own. ... University of Bath (MEng Chemical Engineering) - Offer (AA in Maths, Chemistry) University of Manchester (MEng Chemical Engineering with Study in Europe) - Offer (AAA in Maths, French, 1 other)

  17. Chemical engineering (MS, PhD)

    Personal statement. Essay describing your background, academic achievements, research interests, career goals, and why you wish to pursue graduate study in Chemical Engineering at ASU. You will be asked to upload your personal statement in the online application process. Three (3) recommendation letters

  18. Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example 12

    Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example 12. To me, Chemical Engineering is one of the most fundamental factors in underpinning how the world works. Understanding the key chemical processes of nature is essential to development of new substances and creating products with financial value and for use of the whole population.

  19. Application Process

    To gain admission to the UW chemical engineering graduate program, a student must apply to both the UW Graduate School and the Department of Chemical Engineering. It is essential that both the Graduate School and the Department receive the materials they require by the deadlines in order to be considered for admission. ... Personal statement ...

  20. Prospective Students

    Graduate students in the Chemical Engineering program are students of the Rackham Graduate School. Our admissions process is handled through Rackham, but all applications are reviewed and admissions decisions are made by our departmental admissions committee. ... Personal Statement: This is not the Academic Statement of Purpose, but a ...

  21. How To Write Your Postgraduate Personal Statement

    Admissions tutors will be reading a lot of personal statements so it's important to grab their attention right from the start. You can find a full guide on How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber but here are the main things for you to think about. Don't overthink the opening. Just start by showing your enthusiasm for the ...

  22. Dual Degree Engineering Program

    Review the suggested Master's personal statement prompt. The MSIM prompt is the following, What sets successful students apart in the Master of Science in Innovation & Management (MSIM) program are their innate curiosity for seeking innovative solutions through collaborative problem solutions, their bias toward action, and a profound sense of ...

  23. Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example 6

    My overall goal is to achieve Chartered Status and a Masters degree in Chemical Engineering is my first stage in enabling me to combine all my attributes, strengths & career ambitions. The high standards expected in chemical engineering fit my personal motivation and love of achievement. This personal statement was written by ds722 for ...

  24. Engineering personal statements

    Chemical engineering degree personal statement example (1h) Chemical engineering degree personal statement example (1i) work experience, Imperial offer. Chemical engineering degree personal statement example (1j) with year abroad. Civil engineering degree personal statement example (1a) international applicant, Cardiff offer.

  25. personal statement : r/ChemicalEngineering

    Hi this is my personal statement for applying to university, it's nowhere near finished but I just want some advice in conveying skills I have relevant to an engineering course. activities that I can include are: ... Related Engineering Chemical engineering Sciences Engineering Chemistry forward back. r/ApplyingToCollege. r/ApplyingToCollege. r ...