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Bachelor's Degrees in Course 10

Course X - S.B. in Chemical Engineering
Course XB - S.B. in Chemical-Biological Engineering
Course XC - S.B.

Course X, the Chemical Engineering curriculum, is built on basic sciences (physics, chemistry, and biology) and mathematics. From these foundations arise the engineering sciences - thermodynamics and the transport phenomena - which describe the behavior of matter and energy at equilibrium and in transit. These abstract sciences provide the practical basis for analyzing chemical and biological processes, which in the broadest sense comprise reactors for molecular change and separators for purifying products. The curriculum concludes with courses that tie the separate pieces together; these include laboratory and design experiences. Of course, there is more to it - this curriculum core is supplemented with other essential courses and electives to define the requirements for the S.B. degree.

Course XB, the S.B. in Chemical-Biological Engineering, has been developed for students who want to focus on biological applications. The XB foundation and engineering science requirements are the same as those described above for Course X. However, Course XB requires additional biology courses in place of 5.310, 10.32, and two Restricted Electives in Course X. In addition, the laboratory and design elements feature biological topics and processes.

Courses X and XB require an identical number of units and courses. Furthermore, the early requirements are similar, so that students should easily be able to switch between the programs through the end of the sophomore year. Both degrees provide a good foundation for employment or graduate studies. Both degrees also offer elective courses to allow room for individual specialization.

Course XC allows even more individual specialization because it requires fewer chemical engineering subjects. Because it is not an accredited degree, however, it is not recommended to the student who intends a chemical engineering career. Rather it is most useful for those who wish to specialize in other areas after an introduction to chemical engineering methods.

Your choice of electives depends on your initiative and technical interests. Whatever your interests, you should certainly consider the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) as part of your curriculum. In a UROP, you work for an advisor while conducting a research project. This program offers opportunities for in-depth knowledge, laboratory experience, and mentoring. You may also be interested in a minor or double major.

We have resisted the temptation to show you a "standard progression" through the four-year degree program. There are too many opportunities at MIT and too wide a range of interests among our students to pin down anything as standard. Your faculty advisor will help you chart a course plan that satisfies the course requirements while preparing you for your particular career.