Chemical Engineering BSc
Study of how chemistry, physics, and mathematics are applied to design and operate industrial and environmental processes.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Enjoy chemistry and maths
Are interested in industrial processes
Like problem-solving
Want a career in engineering or manufacturing
Are analytical
Popular Career Fields
Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
Oil & Gas Industry
Manufacturing & Production
Research & Academia
Your Personality Might Be:
Scientifically rigorous
Oil & Gas Industry
Process-oriented
Safety-conscious
What is it?
What Is a Chemical Engineering Degree?
Chemical Engineering focuses on transforming raw materials into useful products such as fuels, food, medicines, and clean water. It combines chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics with design and problem-solving to create safe, efficient, and sustainable processes.
Why Study Chemical Engineering?
Chemical engineers play a vital role in tackling global challenges - from developing renewable energy to improving healthcare and reducing waste. This degree is ideal if you enjoy maths and science and want to use them to make a positive real-world impact.
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Course Summary
Study of how chemistry, physics, and mathematics are applied to design and operate industrial and environmental processes.
What you'll study
Most Chemical Engineering degrees cover:
Chemistry and thermodynamics
Process design and systems engineering
Fluid mechanics and heat transfer
Reaction engineering and catalysis
Materials and energy balances
Separation processes and environmental technology
Safety, sustainability, and project management
Later in your course, you can usually specialise, for example, in renewable energy, biochemical engineering, or environmental protection.
Degree Types
BEng (Bachelor of Engineering): Focuses on practical and technical engineering design.
MEng (Integrated Master’s): A four-year degree with advanced research and preparation for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Skills You'll Gain
A Chemical Engineering degree builds both technical and professional skills, which might include:
Process Design Skills – designing chemical processes, reactors, and production systems.
Thermodynamics & Reaction Analysis – applying core principles to predict and optimise chemical behaviour.
Safety & Risk Management – ensuring safe operation of chemical plants and laboratory systems.
Process Simulation – using software to model flows, energy, reactions, and industrial processes.
Problem-Solving & Optimisation – improving efficiency, sustainability, and performance in chemical operations.
Explore Uni Open Days
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Chemical Engineering graduates are in high demand in sectors such as:
Energy and renewable resources
Pharmaceuticals and healthcare
Food and drink manufacturing
Environmental and waste management
Petrochemicals and materials production
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Industry placements or sandwich years, often with energy, manufacturing, or pharmaceutical companies.
Summer internships in research, design, or operations.
These experiences help you understand how large-scale engineering projects are managed and prepare you for graduate roles in industry.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Maths and Chemistry. Physics or Further Maths are beneficial and sometimes preferred.
Personal Statement Tips
Show your enthusiasm for chemistry, maths, and engineering.
Mention experiments, projects, or research that inspired you.
Reflect on your interest in solving global challenges like sustainability or clean energy.
Include examples such as science fairs, lab experience, or reading about chemical innovations.
What to do Next
Compare courses to see how they balance chemistry, design, and sustainability.
Attend open days or virtual events to visit labs and meet lecturers.
Explore online learning in process engineering or energy systems.
Follow news on clean energy, materials, and sustainability.
Wider Reading
Stuff Matters by Mark Miodownik – How materials science shapes the modern world.
The Chemistry Between Us by Larry Young and Brian Alexander – How chemistry influences life and society.
To Engineer Is Human by Henry Petroski – A look at design, failure, and innovation in engineering.
Sustainable Energy – Without the Hot Air by David MacKay – A practical guide to energy and sustainability.