Chemical engineers are regarded as the most versatile of all engineers. Their rigorous education in chemical and physical fundamentals, in economics, in mathematics and systems analysis uniquely qualifies them to seek solutions to problems which affect the future of our civilization. Advancement in the field can move along both the technical and managerial paths, and a chemical engineering education is an excellent basis for other careers - law,medicine, information technology, finance, teaching, politics, or other branches of engineering.

Chemical engineers are consistently offered the highest paying jobs at graduation. According to the National Association for Colleges and Employers, 2006 graduates with a BS in Chemical Engineering received an average starting salary of $56,269, the highest among all bachelor’s recipients.

The Otto H. York Department of Chemical Engineering has been an integral part of the development of NJIT as a public research university.  Its faculty and students have for many years conducted cutting-edge research in areas as diverse as environmental technology, polymer processing, biotechnology, particulates and nanotechnology. This research effort also leads to the teaching of courses involving current topics.

Modern chemical engineering involves extensive use of computers for process simulation and design, for product characterization and for process control. The American Institute of Chemical Engineering (AIChE) has a very successful student chapter at NJIT which offers seminars, plant trips and social activities.