Chemical Engineering Degrees
Chemical engineering is the branch of engineering concerned with the design, development and management of the industrial processes responsible for turning raw materials into useful products. The subject combines natural sciences with life sciences, as well as other disciplines such as mathematics, giving you a well-rounded understanding of chemical engineering. Chemical engineers are involved in a variety of industries, meaning that your career options are wide open.
About Chemical Engineering
Accreditation
The accreditation of your degree will depend on where you choose to study. It will also be influenced by the level you are studying at. At undergraduate level, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng), a Bachelor of Science (BSc), or an integrated Master of Engineering (MEng).
Depending on your institution, your course may be accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), which allows you to partially meet the requirements for becoming a Chartered Chemical Engineer.
Duration
Generally, an undergraduate degree will take three to four years to complete, depending on where you choose to study.
Your institution may offer part-time study options, which usually means that your degree will take four to six years. You may also be able to take a foundation programme, which is useful if you do not meet the entry requirements for your degree.
Fees
Annual tuition fees for UK students are capped by the UK government. For the 2019/20 academic year, they are £9,250. This is subject to change each year, and will be updated on your institution website.
The fees displayed below are an example of typical annual tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate chemical engineering degrees. Actual tuition fees can be found on the institution webpages.
Typical Annual Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate - £9,250
Topics Covered
Undergraduate
An undergraduate degree in chemical engineering will give you a good foundation of knowledge in the area. You might study modules on biochemical engineering, reaction engineering, process dynamics and control, engineering thermodynamics, and advanced chemical engineering. The majority of chemical engineering undergraduate courses will be designed to suit those students who do not have much experience with the subject area, as well as those who have previously studied chemical engineering. Your degree will be delivered through lectures and tutorials, as well as incorporating practical sessions and laboratory sessions. Depending on your institution, you may be able to specialise towards the end of your degree. Assessment methods could include written work, design project work, and presentations.
Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for a degree in chemical engineering will depend on where you choose to study. They will also be heavily influenced by the level of study for which you are applying. An undergraduate degree will likely require you to have a background in chemistry, physics or mathematics. If you do not have a strong background in these areas, but can prove that you are passionate about chemical engineering, some institutions may still consider your application. For a postgraduate degree, most institutions will require you to have an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering, or a closely related subject.
Typical Entry Requirements
Undergraduate
- A Level Grades - AAB-ABB
- UCAS Points - 136-128 UCAS points
- Required/Desired Subjects - Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics
Postgraduate
- Degree Requirements - 2:1 or higher
- Required/Desired Subjects - Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics
Career Prospects
Chemical engineering graduates will find that there are a wide range of career opportunities available to them. If you choose to work in a role directly related to your degree, jobs might include food processing, energy processing, water management, or petroleum engineering. If you choose to work in a role not directly related to your degree, jobs could include analytical chemist, mining engineer, or quality manager.
