The Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering (BME) and a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering (CME). Both the BME and CME degrees are currently accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET, http://www.abet.org).
UT San Antonio and UT Health San Antonio also offer an M.S. and Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering for students interested in pursuing a graduate degree.
The BME degree is an interdisciplinary program that combines engineering principles, approaches, and methodologies with biological, chemical, and physical sciences in order to define and solve problems in medicine. Individuals enrolled in the BME degree program are given opportunities to develop a strong background in the engineering, technology, and physical and biological sciences to learn the analysis, design, and synthesis tools necessary to function successfully as active participants in new and emerging areas of biosciences, medical devices, and healthcare technologies. The Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering department continues to be recognized locally and nationally for the quality of its undergraduate program. BME graduates continue to find positions in industry and are accepted into graduate schools and professional training programs (medicine and dentistry) nationwide. Students are trained in the fundamentals of science and engineering and are expected to apply this knowledge to investigate fundamental biomedical engineering questions associated with complex living systems, as well as with the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. A broad understanding of sciences and engineering principles is provided in the first two years of the program. Students develop a degree of depth by selecting courses in three areas of concentration: 1) Biomechanics; 2) Biomaterials, Cellular, and Tissue Engineering; and 3) Biomedical Imaging and Data Science. Critical thinking and innovative design skills are integrated throughout the program to aid students in developing solutions and in solving biomedical engineering-related problems. Design projects throughout the program and Senior BME Design courses provide students the opportunity to integrate their design, critical thinking, and communication skills with the scientific and engineering knowledge they acquired throughout the Biomedical Engineering program.
The Chemical Engineering (CME) degree program provides high-quality education and training in chemical engineering through rigorous coursework and hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories. Students are required to take two technical electives from any of the following study areas of Chemical Engineering: 1) Petroleum and Energy Systems, a sector with burgeoning industry demand for well-trained individuals; 2) Materials Engineering, an enabling technical field for microelectronics, energy conversion, and process control; 3) Bioengineering, an emerging area in which biology and chemistry interface with bio-systems and healthcare; and 4) Environmental Engineering, a strategic growth area finding resources and environmental solutions for manufacturers and consumers. In addition, students need to take one technical elective from a list of approved advanced chemistry and physics courses. Evidence-based curricular pedagogies are utilized in the CME courses to ensure that our students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and excellent communication skills.
Admission to an Engineering Program
Direct Admission Criteria
Applicants entering UT San Antonio as Freshmen or Freshmen Transfers (fewer than 12 transferable semester credit hours) will be directly admitted to the Biomedical Engineering (BME) or Chemical Engineering (CME) program if they:
- meet all UT San Antonio undergraduate admission requirements,
- qualify for enrollment in MAT 1213 Calculus I
, or a higher level mathematics course, and
- are ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school class (no minimum SAT or ACT scores required), or
- are ranked below the top 10 percent of their high school class and have a minimum 1200 SAT or 25 ACT score.
Applicants with SAT scores below 1200 or ACT scores below 25 may be considered for admission by committee review.
Transfer requirements for direct admission to the Biomedical Engineering (BME) or Chemical Engineering (CME) program for students who have earned 12 or more transferable semester credit hours:
- meet all UT San Antonio undergraduate transfer admission requirements, and
- have completed MAT 1213 Calculus I
and WRC 1013
, or the equivalents, with grades of “C-” or better, and
- meet grade point average requirements:
- applicants with a transfer grade point average of 3.00 or higher may be granted direct admission to the College, or
- applicants with a transfer grade point average below 3.00 may be granted admission to the College by committee review. Contact bme@utsa.edu or cme@utsa.edu for information regarding the committee review process.
Applicants who do not meet the Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering department admission requirements will be admitted to the Engineering, Math, and Sciences Studies major in the University College. Students have three semesters to complete Calculus I with a grade of "C-" or better and meet the BME or CME Transfer Requirements.
“C-” Grade Rule
A grade of “C-” or better in any science, engineering, or mathematics course required for an engineering degree or any other course that is a prerequisite to any required Biomedical Engineering (BME), Chemical Engineering (CME), or Engineering (EGR) course indicates satisfactory preparation for further engineering education. Any course assigned a grade below a “C-” must be repeated before enrolling in any course for which it is a prerequisite. This requirement is subject to both the Gateway Course and Three-Attempt Limit rules.
Good Academic Standing in BME and CME
All students must be in good academic standing in order to remain in the Biomedical Engineering or Chemical Engineering programs. The minimum requirement that a student must satisfy in order to remain in good standing as a Biomedical Engineering or Chemical Engineering major is a UT San Antonio grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 for all coursework. Students whose GPA falls below 2.5 will be placed on a programmatic probation the following semester. Students who fail to demonstrate academic progress after one year of programmatic probation will be deemed not to be in good academic standing as a Biomedical Engineering or Chemical Engineering major and will be removed from the program. In order to be removed from academic probation, the student must achieve a UT San Antonio grade point average of 2.5 or higher. All courses with BME or CME subject code (except BME 1002 and CME 1202) are restricted to students admitted to the major.
Laptop Program
The laptop program requires that students entering Klesse College programs have their own laptop (notebook) computers and required software. The computer should be upgradeable in order to be of productive use for the duration of the academic program. The laptop specifications may vary per academic program. For further and specific information concerning laptop requirements for each program, please see the Klesse College hardware recommendations website.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biomedical Engineering (BME) at UT San Antonio is an interdisciplinary program that combines engineering principles, approaches, and methodologies with biological, chemical, and physical sciences in order to define and solve problems in medicine. Students will be trained in the fundamentals of science and engineering and are expected to be able to apply this knowledge to investigate fundamental biomedical engineering questions associated with complex living systems, as well as with the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. A broad understanding of sciences and engineering principles is provided in the first two years of the program, with students having the option to choose one concentration as an in-depth focus area of study in the last two years of the program. Critical thinking and innovative design skills are integrated throughout the program to aid students in developing solutions and in solving biomedical engineering-related problems. Design projects throughout the program and Senior BME Design courses provide students the opportunity to integrate their design, critical thinking, and communication skills with the scientific and engineering knowledge they acquired throughout the Biomedical Engineering program. The regulations for this degree comply with the general University regulations (refer to Bachelor’s Degree Regulations).
Students enrolled in the BME degree program are given opportunities to develop a strong background in the engineering, technology, and physical and biological sciences to learn the analysis, design, and synthesis tools necessary to function successfully as active participants in new and emerging areas of biosciences, medical devices, and healthcare technologies. The Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering continues to be recognized locally and nationally for the quality of its undergraduate program. BME graduates continue to find positions in the industry and are accepted into graduate schools and professional training programs (medicine and dentistry) nationwide.
Good Academic Standing Requirements for a Biomedical Engineering Major
All students must be in good academic standing in order to remain in the Biomedical Engineering program. The minimum requirement that a student must satisfy in order to remain in good standing as a biomedical engineering major is to have a university grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for all coursework. Students whose GPA falls below 2.5 will be placed on programmatic probation the following semester. Students who fail to demonstrate academic progress after one year of programmatic probation will be deemed not in good academic standing as a Biomedical Engineering major and will be removed from the program. In order to be removed from academic probation, students must achieve a university grade point average of 2.5 or higher. Students on programmatic dismissal are not allowed to take any major course requirements. All courses with BME subject code (except BME 1002) are restricted to students admitted to the major.
Program Educational Objectives
The objectives of this program are founded on the belief that engineering principles and understanding of biological and physical sciences are critical to the investigation of fundamental bioengineering questions associated with complex living systems, as well as with the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. As such, the program educational objectives of the UT San Antonio Biomedical Engineering program are to prepare graduates who will be able to:
- Become professionals with careers in industry, government, healthcare, and/or pursue advanced graduate or professional degrees.
- Continue their professional development as required for their career advancement.
- Contribute to the socio-economic development of Texas, the nation, and the world through the professional and ethical practice of engineering.
- Assume leadership positions in their chosen field.
The minimum number of semester credit hours required for this degree is 125, at least 39 of which must be at the upper-division level. All candidates for this degree must fulfill the Core Curriculum requirements, the General Engineering requirements, and the degree requirements, listed below.
Core Curriculum Requirements (42 semester credit hours)
Students seeking the B.S. degree in Biomedical Engineering must fulfill the University Core Curriculum requirements in the same manner as other students. The courses listed below satisfy both major requirements and Core Curriculum requirements; however, if these courses are taken to satisfy both requirements, then students may need to take additional courses in order to meet the minimum number of semester credit hours required for the degree.
MAT 1213 may be used to satisfy the core requirement in Mathematics, as well as one of the General Engineering Requirements.
BIO 1203, BIO 1223, PHY 1943, or PHY 1963 may be used to satisfy the core requirement in Life and Physical Sciences, as well as General Engineering or Major course requirements.
Any core curriculum course completed to fulfill a General Engineering or Major course requirement that has not yet been applied to a core curriculum requirement, may apply to the Component Area Option core requirement.
Click here to view the list of all Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements.
General Engineering Requirements
All degree-seeking candidates in engineering must complete the following 22 semester credit hours. 9 semester credit hours can apply to both Core Curriculum requirements and major requirements:
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| CHE 1103 | General Chemistry I | 3 |
| EGR 2302 | Linear Algebra for Engineers | 2 |
| EGR 3423 | Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations for Engineers | 3 |
| MAT 1213 | Calculus I (core) | 3 |
| MAT 1223 | Calculus II | 3 |
| or EGR 1333 | Calculus II for Engineers |
PHY 1943 & PHY 1951 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I and Physics for Scientists and Engineers I Laboratory (core or major) | 4 |
PHY 1963 & PHY 1971 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II and Physics for Scientists and Engineers II Laboratory (core or major) | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours | 22 |
Gateway Course
Students pursuing the B.S. degree in Biomedical Engineering must successfully complete the following Gateway Course with a grade of “C-” or better in no more than two attempts. A student who is unable to successfully complete this course within two attempts, including dropping a course with a grade of “W” or taking an equivalent course at another institution, will be required to change their major.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| EGR 2302 | Linear Algebra for Engineers | 2 |
Biomedical Engineering Requirements
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| |
| BME 1002 | Introduction to Biomedical Engineering | 2 |
| BME 2103 | Physiology for Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| BME 2203 | Biomechanics I | 3 |
| BME 3003 | Biomaterials I | 3 |
| BME 3013 | Clinical Internship in Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| BME 3023 | Biomedical Engineering Technology and Product Development | 3 |
| BME 3113 | Cellular Biology for Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| BME 3121 | Cellular Biology for Biomedical Engineering Laboratory | 1 |
| BME 3211 | Biomedical Engineering Laboratory I | 1 |
| BME 3303 | Bioinstrumentation | 3 |
| BME 3311 | Biomedical Engineering Laboratory II | 1 |
| BME 3373 | Computational Modeling and Simulation in Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| BME 3703 | Biotransport Phenomena | 3 |
| BME 3711 | Biomedical Engineering Laboratory III | 1 |
| BME 4903 | Senior BME Design I | 3 |
| BME 4913 | Senior BME Design II | 3 |
| |
BIO 1203 & BIO 1201 | Biosciences I for Science Majors and Biosciences I Laboratory for Science Majors (core or major) | 4 |
| EGR 2313 | Multivariable Calculus and Series for Engineers | 3 |
| STA 1403 | Probability and Statistics for the Biosciences | 3 |
| or STA 2303 | Applied Probability and Statistics for Engineers |
| |
| Biomechanics II: Cardiovascular | |
| Tissue Mechanics | |
| Computational Biomechanics | |
| Topics in Biomechanics | |
| Cellular Mechanics and Mechanobiology | |
| Orthopaedic Device Design | |
| Biocompatibility of Materials: Tissue-Biomaterial Interactions | |
| Nanomaterials and Nanobiotechnology | |
| Tissue Mechanics | |
| Tissue Engineering | |
| Soft Materials | |
| Stem Cell Engineering | |
| Fundamentals to Polymer Science and Engineering with Select Applications | |
| Cellular Mechanics and Mechanobiology | |
| Topics in Biomaterials | |
| Topics in Tissue Engineering | |
| Cellular Engineering | |
| Topics in Cellular Engineering | |
| Nanomaterials and Nanobiotechnology | |
| Biosensors | |
| Biophotonics | |
| Biomedical Imaging | |
| Generative Modeling and Data Science for Biomedicine | |
| Topics in AI for Biomedicine | |
| Data Analytics to Support Medical Decision Making | |
| Artificial Intelligence for BME: Natural Language Processing and Generative AI Applications | |
| Biomedical Engineering Internship | |
| Biomedical Engineering Research | |
| Biomedical Engineering Research | |
| Biomedical Engineering Research | |
| Independent study in BME | |
| Independent study in BME | |
| Independent study in BME | |
| |
| |
| Introduction to Programming for Engineers | |
| Introduction to Computer Programming for Engineers | |
| Electric Circuits and Electronics | |
| Electromechanical Systems | |
| Statics | |
| Statics and Dynamics | |
| Honors Research (Enrollment limited to candidates for college honors during their last two semesters) | |
| Thermodynamics I | |
| Mechanics of Solids | |
| |
| Essentials of Biochemistry | |
| Biochemistry I | |
| Biosciences II for Science Majors (core or major) | |
| Genetics | |
| General Chemistry II | |
| Organic Chemistry I | |
| Organic Chemistry II | |
| Computer Programming with Engineering Applications | |
| Statistical Analysis for Data Science | |
| Programming for Data Science | |
| Numerical Methods | |
| Engineering Economic Analysis | |
| Calculus III | |
| Data Analysis and Interpretation | |
| Molecular Biology | |
| |
| Total Credit Hours | 73 |
B.S. in Biomedical Engineering – Recommended Four-Year Academic Plan
Plan of Study Grid | First Year |
| Fall |
| AIS 1243 | AIS: Engineering, Mathematics, and Sciences | 3 |
BIO 1203 & BIO 1201 | Biosciences I for Science Majors and Biosciences I Laboratory for Science Majors | 4 |
| CHE 1103 | General Chemistry I | 3 |
| MAT 1213 | Calculus I () | 3 |
| WRC 1013 | Freshman Composition I () | 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 16 |
| Spring |
| BME 1002 | Introduction to Biomedical Engineering | 2 |
MAT 1223
| Calculus II
or Calculus II for Engineers | 3 |
PHY 1943 & PHY 1951 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I and Physics for Scientists and Engineers I Laboratory () | 4 |
| WRC 1023 | Freshman Composition II () | 3 |
| 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 15 |
| Second Year |
| Fall |
| BME 2103 | Physiology for Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| EGR 2302 | Linear Algebra for Engineers | 2 |
STA 1403
| Probability and Statistics for the Biosciences
or Applied Probability and Statistics for Engineers | 3 |
PHY 1963 & PHY 1971 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II and Physics for Scientists and Engineers II Laboratory () | 4 |
| 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 15 |
| Spring |
| BME 2203 | Biomechanics I | 3 |
| BME 3003 | Biomaterials I | 3 |
| BME 3113 | Cellular Biology for Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| BME 3121 | Cellular Biology for Biomedical Engineering Laboratory | 1 |
| BME 3211 | Biomedical Engineering Laboratory I | 1 |
| EGR 2313 | Multivariable Calculus and Series for Engineers | 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 14 |
| Third Year |
| Fall |
| BME 3303 | Bioinstrumentation | 3 |
| BME 3311 | Biomedical Engineering Laboratory II | 1 |
| BME 3373 | Computational Modeling and Simulation in Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| EGR 3423 | Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations for Engineers | 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 16 |
| Spring |
| BME 3023 | Biomedical Engineering Technology and Product Development | 3 |
| BME 3703 | Biotransport Phenomena | 3 |
| BME 3711 | Biomedical Engineering Laboratory III | 1 |
| BME 3013 | Clinical Internship in Biomedical Engineering | 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 16 |
| Summer |
| BME 3033 | Biomedical Engineering Internship () | 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 3 |
| Fourth Year |
| Fall |
| BME 4903 | Senior BME Design I | 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 15 |
| Spring |
| BME 4913 | Senior BME Design II | 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 15 |
| | Total Credit Hours | 125 |
Accelerated Biomedical Engineering
The Accelerated Biomedical Engineering program is a bridge into graduate-level coursework for students seeking their Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering (BME). The BME program requires 125 semester credit hours of coursework. Students will select one Master's program from either the Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization, Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering, Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering, Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education, Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering, Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, or Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering to apply up to 9 semester credit hours of graduate coursework to Section C. Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees through the accelerated program will have completed at least 150 semester credit hours rather than up to 161.
Accelerated Pathways
Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization
The Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization (BTC) requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Only 3 semester credit hours of graduate-level BTC coursework may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in BME and this Master's Degree will have earned 152 semester credit hours, rather than 155. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization, please visit the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering (BME) requires at least 32 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 9 semester credit hours of graduate-level BME courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in BME and this Master's Degree will have earned at least 150 semester credit hours, rather than 157. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering, please visit the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering (CME) requires at least 36 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 9 semester credit hours of graduate-level CME courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in BME and this Master's Degree will have earned at least 152 semester credit hours, rather than 161. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering, please visit the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education
The Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Only 3 semester credit hours of graduate-level coursework may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in BME and this Master's Degree will have earned at least 152 semester credit hours, rather than 155. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education, please visit the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering (AMIE) requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level AMIE courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in BME and this Master's Degree will have earned at least 150 semester credit hours, rather than 155. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, please visit the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Industrial Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level BME courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in BME and this Master's Degree will have earned at least 150 semester credit hours, rather than 155. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering, please visit the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Industrial Engineering within the graduate catalog. Students will choose a concentration from either Materials Engineering and Mechanics, Robotics and Control, or Thermal and Fluid Systems.
Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering (MatE) requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 9 semester credit hours of graduate-level MatE courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in BME and this Master's Degree will have earned at least 150 semester credit hours, rather than 155. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering, please visit the Department of Electrical Engineering within the graduate catalog. Students will choose a concentration from either Multifunctional Electronic, Dielectric, Photonic, and Magnetic Materials; Multifunctional Biomedical Materials; or Semiconductor Materials and Manufacturing.
Qualifications to Participate
Reach out to your advisor for more information on how to apply for the program. Students who are selected to participate in the Accelerated Biomedical Engineering program are not guaranteed admission into the selected Master's program. Minimum requirements to be considered for the accelerated program are listed below:
- Student must be a junior in the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering program with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.
- For pathways that only allow for 3 semester credit hours, senior status is advised.
- Student must be within 30 semester credit hours of graduation.
- Student must maintain a GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale while participating in the program.
Accelerated Coursework
Students can complete 3-9 semester credit hours of graduate-level coursework from one of the options below to apply to their Section C. Biomedical Engineering Electives.
Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization
Only 3 semester credit hours of graduate-level BTC coursework may apply as a Biomedical Engineering Elective from the course below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| BME 6123 | Medical Device Design | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering
Up to 9 semester credit hours of graduate-level BME courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives from the courses listed below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| BME 6033 | BME Engineering Analysis | 3 |
| BME 6703 | Biomedical Imaging | 3 |
| BME 6803 | Experimental Biomechanics | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering
Up to 9 semester credit hours of graduate-level CME courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives from the courses listed below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| CME 6203 | Advanced Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics | 3 |
| CME 6303 | Transport Phenomena | 3 |
| CME 6403 | Mathematical Methods in Chemical Engineering | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education
Only 3 semester credit hours of graduate-level Engineering Education coursework may apply as a Biomedical Engineering Elective from the course listed below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| EGR 6183 | Engineering Education Theory and Practice | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level AMIE courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives from the courses listed below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| ME 5233 | Advanced Quality Control | 3 |
| ME 6033 | Linear and Mixed Integer Optimization | 3 |
| ME 6543 | Machine Learning and Data Analytics | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level ME courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students will choose a concentration from either Materials Engineering and Mechanics, Robotics and Control, or Thermal and Fluid Systems.
Materials Engineering and Mechanics
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| ME 5713 | Mechanical Behavior of Materials | 3 |
| ME 6013 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics I | 3 |
| ME 6413 | Elasticity | 3 |
Robotics and Control
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| ME 5493 | Fundamentals of Robotics | 3 |
| ME 6013 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics I | 3 |
| ME 6123 | Advanced Systems Dynamics and Control | 3 |
Thermal and Fluid Systems
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| ME 5243 | Advanced Thermodynamics | 3 |
| ME 6013 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics I | 3 |
| ME 6123 | Advanced Systems Dynamics and Control | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering
Up to 9 semester credit hours of graduate-level MatE courses may apply as Biomedical Engineering Electives. Students will choose a concentration from either Multifunctional Electronic, Dielectric, Photonic, and Magnetic Materials; Multifunctional Biomedical Materials; or Semiconductor Materials and Manufacturing. Students who choose the Thesis option may only complete 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level MatE courses.
Multifunctional Electronic, Dielectric, Photonic, and Magnetic Materials
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| EE 5403 | Advanced Dielectric and Optoelectronic Engineering Laboratory | 3 |
| EE 5503 | Introduction to Nanoelectronics | 3 |
| MATE 6953 | Directed Research in Advanced Materials Engineering | 3 |
Multifunctional Biomedical Materials
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| BME 6903 | Biomaterials | 3 |
| MATE 5513 | Fundamentals of Microfabrication and Application | 3 |
| MATE 6953 | Directed Research in Advanced Materials Engineering | 3 |
Semiconductor Materials and Manufacturing
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| EE 5403 | Advanced Dielectric and Optoelectronic Engineering Laboratory | 3 |
| EE 5503 | Introduction to Nanoelectronics | 3 |
| MATE 6953 | Directed Research in Advanced Materials Engineering | 3 |
Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Chemical Engineering (CME) is the newest addition to the Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design at The University of Texas at San Antonio. The program, which began welcoming incoming freshman students in the fall of 2017, provides an exceptional learning environment and opportunities for discovery at UT San Antonio.
Chemical engineering is unique, as it educates students to use chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics to solve engineering problems related to production, transformation, and utilization of chemicals, materials, and energy.
The Chemical Engineering program provides high-quality education and training in chemical engineering through structured coursework and hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. Students are also required to complete prescribed electives, some of which may be selected from any of the four following study areas of Chemical Engineering: 1) Petroleum/Energy Engineering, a sector with burgeoning industry demand for well-trained individuals; 2) Materials Engineering, an enabling technical field for microelectronics, energy conversion, and process control; 3) Bioengineering, an emerging area where biology and chemistry interface with bio-systems and healthcare; or 4) Environmental Engineering, a strategic growth area finding resources and environmental solutions for manufacturers and consumers.
The chemical engineering program prepares graduates with the knowledge and skill sets to capture career opportunities—together, our goal is to make the industry more efficient and our world cleaner and healthier.
Study Areas
- Petroleum/Energy Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Bioengineering
- Environmental Engineering
The regulations for this degree comply with the general regulations of the University (refer to Bachelor’s Degree Regulations).
Good Academic Standing Requirements for a Chemical Engineering Major
All students must be in good academic standing in order to remain in the Chemical Engineering program. The minimum requirement that a student must satisfy in order to remain in good standing as a chemical engineering major is to have a university grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 for all coursework. Students whose GPA falls below 2.5 will be placed on programmatic probation the following semester. Students who fail to demonstrate academic progress after one year of programmatic probation will be deemed not to be in good academic standing as a Chemical Engineering major and will be removed from the program. In order to be removed from academic probation, students must achieve a university grade point average of 2.5 or higher. Students on programmatic dismissal are not allowed to take any major course requirements. All courses with CME subject code (except CME 1202) are restricted to students admitted to the major.
Program Educational Objectives
The Chemical Engineering program is preparing graduates to achieve the following Educational Objectives:
- Succeed in the practice of chemical engineering through chosen careers in industry, government, or in advanced graduate and/or professional studies.
- Demonstrate leadership in their chosen field.
- Contribute to the socio-economic development of Texas, the nation, and the world through the ethical practice of engineering.
- Embrace life-long learning for professional development and career advancement.
The minimum number of semester credit hours required for this degree is 128, at least 39 of which must be at the upper-division level. All candidates for this degree must fulfill the Core Curriculum requirements, the General Engineering requirements, and the Chemical Engineering requirements, which are listed below.
Core Curriculum Requirements (42 semester credit hours)
Students seeking the B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering must fulfill the University Core Curriculum requirements in the same manner as other students. The courses listed below satisfy both major requirements and Core Curriculum requirements; however, if these courses are taken to satisfy both requirements, then students may need to take additional courses in order to meet the minimum number of semester credit hours required for the degree.
MAT 1213 may be used to satisfy the core requirement in Mathematics, as well as one of the General Engineering Requirements.
PHY 1943 and PHY 1963 may be used to satisfy the core requirement in Life and Physical Sciences, as well as one of the General Engineering Requirements.
ECO 2023 may be used to satisfy the core requirement in Social and Behavioral Sciences and as a required major course.
EGR 1343 should be used to satisfy the Component Area Option requirement.
Click here to view the list of all Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements.
General Engineering Requirements
All degree-seeking candidates in engineering must complete the following 22 semester credit hours, as well as the Core Curriculum requirements and major requirements:
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| CHE 1103 | General Chemistry I | 3 |
| MAT 1213 | Calculus I (core and major) | 3 |
PHY 1943 & PHY 1951 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I and Physics for Scientists and Engineers I Laboratory (core and major) | 4 |
PHY 1963 & PHY 1971 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II and Physics for Scientists and Engineers II Laboratory (core and major) | 4 |
| MAT 1223 | Calculus II | 3 |
| or EGR 1333 | Calculus II for Engineers |
| EGR 2302 | Linear Algebra for Engineers | 2 |
| EGR 3423 | Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations for Engineers | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 22 |
Gateway Courses
Students pursuing the B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering must successfully complete the following Gateway Courses with a grade of “C-” or better in no more than two attempts per course. A student who is unable to successfully complete these courses within two attempts, including dropping a course with a grade of “W” or taking an equivalent course at another institution, will be required to change their major.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| CME 2103 | Chemical Process Principles | 3 |
| EGR 2302 | Linear Algebra for Engineers | 2 |
Degree Requirements
Students seeking the B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering must complete the following semester credit hours, as well as the Core Curriculum requirements and General Engineering requirements:
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| CME 1202 | Introduction to Chemical Engineering | 2 |
| CME 2103 | Chemical Process Principles | 3 |
| CME 2303 | Transport Phenomena I | 3 |
| CME 2403 | Introduction to Programming for Engineers | 3 |
| CME 2503 | Thermodynamics I | 3 |
| CME 3003 | Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering | 3 |
| CME 3123 | Computational Methods in Chemical Engineering | 3 |
| CME 3203 | Thermodynamics II | 3 |
| CME 3302 | Chemical Process Safety and Risk Management | 2 |
| CME 3403 | Separation Processes | 3 |
| CME 3503 | Kinetics and Reactor Design | 3 |
| CME 3601 | Chemical Engineering Laboratory l | 1 |
| CME 3703 | Transport Phenomena II | 3 |
| CME 4100 | Undergraduate Chemical Engineering Seminar I | 0 |
| CME 4103 | Process Dynamics and Control | 3 |
| CME 4163 | Chemical Engineering Design Fundamentals | 3 |
| CME 4200 | Undergraduate Chemical Engineering Seminar II | 0 |
| CME 4201 | Chemical Engineering Laboratory ll | 1 |
| CME 4263 | Plant Design | 3 |
CHE 1103 & CHE 1121 | General Chemistry I and General Chemistry I Laboratory (CHE 1103 also satisfies a General Engineering Requirement) | 4 |
CHE 1113 & CHE 1131 | General Chemistry II and General Chemistry II Laboratory | 4 |
CHE 2603 & CHE 2612 | Organic Chemistry I and Organic Chemistry I Laboratory | 5 |
| ECO 2023 | Introductory Microeconomics (core and major) | 3 |
| EGR 2313 | Multivariable Calculus and Series for Engineers | 3 |
| EGR 3713 | Engineering Economic Analysis | 3 |
| STA 2303 | Applied Probability and Statistics for Engineers | 3 |
| 9 |
| Essentials of Biochemistry | |
| Physiology for Chemical Engineering | |
| Biomechanics I | |
| Cellular Biology for Chemical Engineering | |
| Biocompatibility of Materials: Tissue-Biomaterial Interaction | |
| Biomechanics II | |
| Bioinstrumentation | |
| Selected Topics in Bioengineering | |
| Fundamentals to Polymer Science and Engineering with Select Applications | |
| Environmental Engineering | |
| Water Resources Engineering | |
| Water and Wastewater Treatment | |
| Analytical Chemistry | |
| Selected Topics in Environmental Engineering | |
| Heterogeneous Catalysis and Surface Science | |
| Fundamentals of Interfaces, Nanoparticles, and Other Colloids | |
| Electrochemistry and Electrochemical Engineering | |
| Environmental Assessment (with approval) | |
| Biomechanics I | |
| Bioinstrumentation | |
| Selected Topics in Materials Science and Engineering | |
| Fundamentals to Polymer Science and Engineering with Select Applications | |
| Heterogeneous Catalysis and Surface Science | |
| Fundamentals of Interfaces, Nanoparticles, and Other Colloids | |
| Electrochemistry and Electrochemical Engineering | |
| Electric Network Theory | |
| Electromagnetic Engineering | |
| Electronic Devices | |
| Materials Physics |
| Dielectric and Optoelectronic Engineering Laboratory | |
| Introduction to Nanoelectronics | |
| Statics | |
| Materials Engineering | |
| Mechanics of Solids | |
| Modern Physics | |
| Process Optimization | |
| Selected Topics in Petroleum/Energy Engineering | |
| Heterogeneous Catalysis and Surface Science | |
| Fundamentals of Interfaces, Nanoparticles, and Other Colloids | |
| Electrochemistry and Electrochemical Engineering | |
| Statics and Dynamics | |
| Modern Physics | |
| |
| Chemical Engineering Research | |
| Chemical Engineering Research | |
| Chemical Engineering Research | |
| Chemical Engineering Internship | |
| Independent Study | |
| Independent Study | |
| Independent Study | |
| Descriptive Inorganic Chemistry | |
| Organic Chemistry II | |
| Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy | |
| X-Ray Crystallography | |
| Drug Metabolism | |
| Classical Mechanics I | |
| Materials Physics | |
| Lasers: Theory and Applications | |
| Nanotechnology | |
| Molecular Biophysics | |
| Total Credit Hours | 79 |
B.S. in Chemical Engineering – Recommended Four-Year Academic Plan
Plan of Study Grid | First Year |
| Fall |
| AIS 1243 | AIS: Engineering, Mathematics, and Sciences () | 3 |
| CHE 1103 | General Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHE 1121 | General Chemistry I Laboratory | 1 |
| EGR 1343 | The Impact of Modern Technologies on Society () | 3 |
| WRC 1013 | Freshman Composition I () | 3 |
| MAT 1213 | Calculus I () | 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 16 |
| Spring |
| CHE 1113 | General Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHE 1131 | General Chemistry II Laboratory | 1 |
| CME 1202 | Introduction to Chemical Engineering | 2 |
| PHY 1943 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I () | 3 |
| PHY 1951 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I Laboratory | 1 |
MAT 1223
| Calculus II
or Calculus II for Engineers | 3 |
| WRC 1023 | Freshman Composition II () | 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 16 |
| Second Year |
| Fall |
| CHE 2603 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHE 2612 | Organic Chemistry I Laboratory | 2 |
| CME 2103 | Chemical Process Principles | 3 |
| PHY 1963 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II () | 3 |
| EGR 2302 | Linear Algebra for Engineers | 2 |
| EGR 2313 | Multivariable Calculus and Series for Engineers | 3 |
| PHY 1971 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II Laboratory | 1 |
| | Credit Hours | 17 |
| Spring |
| 3 |
| STA 2303 | Applied Probability and Statistics for Engineers | 3 |
| EGR 3423 | Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations for Engineers | 3 |
| CME 2303 | Transport Phenomena I | 3 |
| CME 2403 | Introduction to Programming for Engineers | 3 |
| CME 2503 | Thermodynamics I | 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 18 |
| Third Year |
| Fall |
| 3 |
| CME 3003 | Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering | 3 |
| CME 3123 | Computational Methods in Chemical Engineering | 3 |
| CME 3203 | Thermodynamics II | 3 |
| CME 3703 | Transport Phenomena II | 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 15 |
| Spring |
| CME 3403 | Separation Processes | 3 |
| CME 3503 | Kinetics and Reactor Design | 3 |
| CME 3601 | Chemical Engineering Laboratory l | 1 |
| 3 |
| ECO 2023 | Introductory Microeconomics () | 3 |
| CME 3302 | Chemical Process Safety and Risk Management | 2 |
| | Credit Hours | 15 |
| Fourth Year |
| Fall |
| CME 4100 | Undergraduate Chemical Engineering Seminar I | 0 |
| CME 4103 | Process Dynamics and Control | 3 |
| CME 4163 | Chemical Engineering Design Fundamentals | 3 |
| CME 4201 | Chemical Engineering Laboratory ll | 1 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 16 |
| Spring |
| CME 4200 | Undergraduate Chemical Engineering Seminar II | 0 |
| CME 4263 | Plant Design | 3 |
| EGR 3713 | Engineering Economic Analysis | 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| | Credit Hours | 15 |
| | Total Credit Hours | 128 |
Accelerated Chemical Engineering
The Accelerated Chemical Engineering program is a bridge into graduate-level coursework for students seeking their Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (CME). The CME program requires 128 semester credit hours of coursework. Students will select one Master's program from either the Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization, Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering, Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering, Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education, Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering, Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, or Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering to apply up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate coursework to Section C. Prescribed Electives. The other 3 semester credit hours must come from the Advanced Chemistry or Physics Elective section of Section C. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees through the accelerated program will have completed at least 152 semester credit hours rather than up to 164.
Accelerated Pathways
Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization
The Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization (BTC) requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level BTC coursework may apply as Prescribed Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in CME and this Master's Degree will have earned 152 semester credit hours, rather than 158. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization, please visit the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering (BME) requires at least 32 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level BME courses may apply as Prescribed Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in CME and this Master's Degree will have earned at least 154 semester credit hours, rather than 160. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering, please visit the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering (CME) requires at least 36 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level CME courses may apply as Prescribed Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in CME and this Master's Degree will have earned at least 158 semester credit hours, rather than 164. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering, please visit the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education
The Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level courses may apply as Prescribed Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in CME and this Master's Degree will have earned 152 semester credit hours, rather than 158. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education, please visit the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering (AMIE) requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level AMIE courses may apply as Prescribed Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in CME and this Master's Degree will have earned 152 semester credit hours, rather than 158. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, please visit the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Industrial Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering with a Thermal and Fluid Systems concentration
The Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering with a Thermal and Fluid Systems concentration requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level BME courses may apply as Prescribed Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in CME and this Master's Degree will have earned 152 semester credit hours, rather than 158. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering, please visit the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Industrial Engineering within the graduate catalog.
Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering
The Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering (MatE) requires at least 30 semester credit hours of coursework. Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level MatE courses may apply as Prescribed Electives. Students who successfully complete both the Bachelor's in CME and this Master's Degree will have earned 152 semester credit hours, rather than 158. For the full list of requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering, please visit the Department of Electrical Engineering within the graduate catalog. Students will choose a concentration from either Multifunctional Electronic, Dielectric, Photonic, and Magnetic Materials; Multifunctional Biomedical Materials; or Semiconductor Materials and Manufacturing.
Qualifications to Participate
Reach out to your advisor for more information on how to apply for the program. Students who are selected to participate in the Accelerated Chemical Engineering program are not guaranteed admission into the selected Master's program. Minimum requirements to be considered for the accelerated program are listed below:
- Student must be a junior in the Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering program with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.
- Student must be within 30 semester credit hours of graduation.
- Student must maintain a GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale while participating in the program.
Accelerated Coursework
Students can complete up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level coursework from one of the options below to apply to their Section C. Prescribed Electives.
Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Technology Commercialization
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level BTC coursework may apply as Prescribed Electives from the courses below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| BME 6123 | Medical Device Design | 3 |
| BME 6153 | Medical Device Project Management | 3 |
| BME 6403 | Biomedical Terminologies for Entrepreneurs | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level BME coursework may apply as Prescribed Electives from the courses below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| BME 6033 | BME Engineering Analysis | 3 |
| BME 6703 | Biomedical Imaging | 3 |
| BME 6803 | Experimental Biomechanics | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level CME coursework may apply as Prescribed Electives from the courses below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| CME 6203 | Advanced Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics | 3 |
| CME 6303 | Transport Phenomena | 3 |
| CME 6403 | Mathematical Methods in Chemical Engineering | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Engineering Education
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level Engineering Education coursework may apply as Prescribed Electives from the courses below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| EGR 6183 | Engineering Education Theory and Practice | 3 |
| EGR 6973 | Special Problems in Engineering Education | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level AMIE courses may apply as Prescribed Electives from the courses listed below.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| ME 5233 | Advanced Quality Control | 3 |
| ME 6033 | Linear and Mixed Integer Optimization | 3 |
| ME 6543 | Machine Learning and Data Analytics | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering with a Thermal and Fluid Systems Concentration
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level ME courses may apply as Prescribed Electives.
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| ME 5243 | Advanced Thermodynamics | 3 |
| ME 6013 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics I | 3 |
| ME 6613 | Advanced Fluid Mechanics | 3 |
Master of Science Degree in Advanced Materials Engineering
Up to 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level MatE courses may apply as Prescribed Electives. Students will choose a concentration from either Multifunctional Electronic, Dielectric, Photonic, and Magnetic Materials; Multifunctional Biomedical Materials; or Semiconductor Materials and Manufacturing.
Multifunctional Electronic, Dielectric, Photonic, and Magnetic Materials
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| EE 5403 | Advanced Dielectric and Optoelectronic Engineering Laboratory | 3 |
| EE 5503 | Introduction to Nanoelectronics | 3 |
| MATE 6953 | Directed Research in Advanced Materials Engineering | 3 |
Multifunctional Biomedical Materials
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| BME 6903 | Biomaterials | 3 |
| MATE 5513 | Fundamentals of Microfabrication and Application | 3 |
| MATE 6953 | Directed Research in Advanced Materials Engineering | 3 |
Semiconductor Materials and Manufacturing
Course List | Code | Title | Credit Hours |
| EE 5403 | Advanced Dielectric and Optoelectronic Engineering Laboratory | 3 |
| EE 5503 | Introduction to Nanoelectronics | 3 |
| MATE 6953 | Directed Research in Advanced Materials Engineering | 3 |