Chemical Engineering BSc

Choosing to study chemical engineering at university is both challenging and rewarding. A chemical engineering degree equips you with the knowledge of how raw materials are transformed into valuable products, combining science, mathematics, and engineering principles. It develops problem-solving and technical skills that open doors to careers across industries such as energy, pharmaceuticals, food production, and environmental technology.

Course Structure

Most UK chemical engineering degrees last three years, with many universities offering a four-year option that includes an integrated master’s (MEng) or a placement year in industry. The first year typically builds a foundation in chemistry, mathematics, and engineering fundamentals. Later years allow you to specialise in areas such as process design, sustainability, or biochemical engineering, with significant emphasis on laboratory work, design projects, and research.

Example Modules

• Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics

• Chemical Reaction Engineering

• Process Design and Simulation

• Separation Processes

• Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering

• Materials and Energy Balances

• Environmental Engineering and Sustainability

• Safety, Risk, and Process Control

• Final Year Design Project or Dissertation

Entry Requirements

Universities typically expect applicants to have studied mathematics and chemistry at school or college, often alongside another science subject such as physics or biology. Evidence of strong analytical and numerical ability is highly valued. Some courses may also include interviews, admissions tests, or assessments of problem-solving skills.

Useful Entry Subjects

Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Further Mathematics are all strong preparation for chemical engineering. Subjects that demonstrate analytical thinking and problem-solving, such as Computer Science or Design and Technology, may also be helpful.

What Makes a Strong Application

A strong personal statement should highlight a genuine interest in applying science to solve real-world challenges. Applicants should demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, resilience, and curiosity about how processes work at scale. Relevant experiences, such as STEM competitions, laboratory projects, or work experience in engineering or manufacturing, will strengthen your application. Awareness of sustainability, global energy challenges, and innovation in technology also makes an impression.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

• Analytical and problem-solving skills through tackling complex engineering problems

  
  

• Teamwork and leadership through group design projects

  
  

• Technical and digital skills in laboratory work and process simulation software

  
  

• Communication and presentation skills for technical and non-technical audiences

  
  

• Project management and organisational abilities

  
  

• A strong grounding in numeracy and data analysis

  
  

• Awareness of sustainability, ethics, and safety in engineering practice

Personality Type it Suits

A chemical engineering degree suits students who are logical, innovative, and resilient. It is ideal for those who enjoy applying scientific principles to practical challenges, who are motivated by problem-solving, and who can balance attention to detail with creative thinking. It also suits individuals who work well both independently and collaboratively in high-pressure environments.

Career Options after Graduation

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• Chemical and Process Engineering

  
  

• Energy, Oil, and Gas Industries

  
  

• Renewable and Environmental Technologies

  
  

• Food and Drink Manufacturing

  
  

• Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology

  
  

• Materials and Nanotechnology

  
  

• Consulting and Project Management

  
  

• Finance, Business, and Data Analysis (valuing strong numeracy skills)

Typical Pay after Graduation

Starting salaries for chemical engineering graduates are among the highest for STEM subjects. Entry-level positions in industry and consulting are competitive, and with experience, chemical engineers can progress into senior technical, research, or management roles with significantly higher earnings.

Wider Reading for Aspiring Students

Exploring books on science and engineering can deepen your understanding and strengthen your application. Recommended titles include:

Stuff Matters by Mark Miodownik – A fascinating look at materials and their impact.

Engineering: A Very Short Introduction by David Blockley – An accessible overview of engineering principles.

The Chemical Reactor Omnibook by Octave Levenspiel – A classic introduction to chemical reaction engineering.

Sustainable Energy – Without the Hot Air by David MacKay – A clear exploration of global energy challenges.

The Pleasure of Finding Things Out by Richard Feynman – Inspiring essays from a Nobel Prize-winning physicist.