A Successful “Introduction to ChE” First-Semester Course Focusing on Connection, Communication, and Preparation

Résumé

Should chemical engineering fundamentals be offered to first semester freshmen? A new course has been developed at the University of Massachusetts Amherst for such a purpose. The course was designed both to motivate students to study ChE and to increase retention of students after the first year. Course activities are arranged to 1) illustrate the wide-range of potential careers available with a degree in ChE, 2) develop both oral and written technical communication skills, and 3) allow students to become “connected” to both the profession and the UMass ChE Department. The course is highly rated by first-semester freshmen and transfer students, motivating them to continue studies in ChE.