With the creation of the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (PME)—the first new school at the University in three decades—the University of Chicago is the first university in the nation with a school dedicated to this important field. The PME explores the intersection of science and engineering, solves technological problems of global significance, and continually inspires creative applications of molecular-level science. The PME offers undergraduate-level BS degree programs and several certificate-granting minors in Molecular Engineering. All undergraduate molecular engineering programs complement the breadth of the UChicago general education requirements and provide students with the opportunity to delve into quantum, biological, chemical, and soft materials engineering.
Following the PME’s mission to translate advances in basic physics, chemistry, biology, and computation into applicable tools for important societal problems, the program’s cutting-edge engineering curriculum is built on an interdisciplinary foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Courses are designed to develop quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills; to introduce engineering analysis of physical, chemical, and biological systems; and to address open-ended technological questions across a spectrum of disciplines.
The major program both prepares undergraduates for a wide variety of careers in technology-focused industries and positions graduates for further postgraduate study in such fields as science, engineering, medicine, business, or law. The Institute aims to introduce invention and design, along with inquiry and discovery, as fruitful and complementary intellectual activities. Majors may choose from three quantitative engineering analysis tracks:
- Bioengineering
- Chemical and Soft Materials Engineering
- Quantum Engineering
The minor program in Molecular Engineering is designed for undergraduates majoring in physical or biological science, mathematics, computer science, economics, or related fields. The overall objective of the program is to provide basic engineering tools and ways of thinking to students that augment scientific approaches and problem–solving skills. The minors are:
- Molecular Engineering
- Molecular Engineering Technology and Innovation
- Systems Bioengineering
- Immunoengineering
- Cell & Tissue Engineering
- Soft Matter Synthesis, Characterization, and Engineering
- Molecular Engineering of Sustainable Energy and Water Resources
- Computational Molecular Engineering
- Quantum Information Science