Southern University and A&M College receives approval for new degree program in chemical engineering

Southern University and A&M College receives approval for new degree program in chemical engineering

During its June meeting the Louisiana Board of Regents approved the establishment of a new Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering degree program within the College of Sciences and Engineering. The approval marks a historic milestone for the university and expands opportunities for students to pursue high-demand careers in energy, manufacturing, biotechnology, environmental sustainability, advanced materials, and related industries.

The new program, with support from Shell Chemicals, represents the first chemical engineering degree program offered at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in Louisiana and reflects Southern University's commitment to academic excellence, workforce development, innovation, and economic advancement. The program has been developed in collaboration with industry partners and stakeholders to address growing workforce demands across Louisiana's industrial, manufacturing, and technology sectors.

"The approval of the Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering program is a transformational achievement for Southern University and the state of Louisiana," said Lealon L. Martin, Ph.D., dean of the College of Sciences and Engineering. "This program will expand educational opportunities for our students, strengthen Louisiana's engineering workforce pipeline, and position Southern University as a leading contributor to innovation, economic development, and industrial competitiveness."

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering program will provide students with a rigorous, hands-on curriculum that integrates chemistry, physics, mathematics, engineering science and process design. Students will gain practical experience through laboratory instruction, undergraduate research, industry engagement, internships and experiential learning opportunities that prepare graduates to solve complex engineering challenges.

"The Louisiana Board of Regents' approval of the chemical engineering program at Southern University and A&M College is an important milestone, and one we are proud to celebrate," said Emma Lewis, executive vice president for Shell Chemicals. "At Shell, we have believed in the promise of this program from the beginning and have invested in its success through leadership support, program development, student opportunities, and our recent $5 million commitment to help strengthen its future. We're excited to see that shared vision become reality."

The program places a strong emphasis on process safety, sustainability, advanced manufacturing, process optimization, artificial intelligence applications in engineering, and emerging technologies that are transforming the chemical and process industries.

The establishment of the chemical engineering program further strengthens Southern's engineering portfolio and advances the university's mission of providing transformative educational experiences that prepare globally competitive scientists, engineers, innovators, and leaders.

Southern University anticipates welcoming its inaugural class of chemical engineering students beginning in upcoming semesters.

Prospective students interested in learning more about admission requirements, curriculum details, and enrollment opportunities are encouraged to visit the College of Sciences and Engineering website at https://www.subr.edu/cse.