To work as a chemical engineer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering; and
• have a license.

Education after high school

Most students prepare for this field by earning a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering. Many four-year colleges and universities offer this program of study. You may need between four and five years to complete this program.

Some jobs require a master's or doctoral degree (PhD). For instance, if you are interested in teaching chemical engineering you need a PhD. Also, many chemical engineers go to graduate school to specialize in one area of chemical engineering. In general, a master's degree takes two years of study after you complete your bachelor's degree. A PhD will take several additional years.

Work experience

You should consider participating in an internship with an engineering firm while in college. An internship is usually part of a four-year degree program. It offers you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to a work situation. An internship also allows you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field.

On-the-job training

New graduates work under the guidance of experienced engineers. In large companies, you may also receive formal classroom training. The length of on-the-job training varies by employer and your background. In general, beginning chemical engineers receive at least six months of training.

As you gain knowledge and experience, you receive greater independence and work on more difficult tasks.