Chemical Engineering Degrees

What is chemical engineering?

So, what is chemical engineering? Chemical engineering is a multi-disciplinary branch of engineering that combines natural and experimental sciences (such as chemistry and physics), along with life sciences (such as biology, microbiology and biochemistry) plus mathematics and economics to design, develop, produce, transform, transport, operate and manage the industrial processes that turn raw materials into valuable products.

Many of the processes within chemical engineering involve chemical reactions, and the field takes cues from chemists who are looking for new ways to create products and to investigate the mechanisms within chemical reactions. Chemical engineers then translate this chemical information to formulate designs. As such, there are two broad subgroups that better answer the question “What is chemical engineering?” – more precisely:

1. Designing, manufacturing and operating plants and machinery for carrying out large-scale industrial chemical, biological or related processes
2. Developing new or adapted substances for a wide range of products

Chemical engineers may be specialized in one or the other subgroup, but work from both side will be required in order to create a final product. They will need to consider economic viability, management of resources, health and safety, sustainability and environmental impact.

Entry requirements for chemical engineering degrees

Entry requirements for chemical engineering degrees usually emphasize a strong background in chemistry and mathematics, while knowledge of other sciences is beneficial. Some background knowledge of the nature of chemical engineering and its various real-world applications is also a good way to prove to university admissions officers that you have a keen interest in pursuing a chemical engineering degree.
Many institutions accept a range of entry routes into chemical engineering – you can enter from a natural sciences background, or through engineering or computer sciences. Some institutions are even more flexible, accepting students from all disciplines. And, if you don’t have the required grades or subjects needed for entry, some institutions offer a foundation course to help you get up to speed with the required skills and knowledge.
If you have a diploma or similar lower-level certificate in chemical engineering from a recognized institution, you may be able to be admitted directly into the second year of a chemical engineering degree program – check with the institution(s) you are interested in to find out if this is an option.

What to expect from chemical engineering degrees

Undergraduate-level chemical engineering degrees can last from three to five years. The duration varies based on the institution and the country in which you study, but also depends on whether you choose to study a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or a Master of Engineering (MEng) – also referred to as a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) depending on national naming conventions.
The BEng will last three to four years, and the MEng four to five years. Some institutions may also offer the chance for BEng students to transfer to a related MEng degree program during the latter half of their degree, provided they meet certain academic requirements. Conversely, those enrolled on the MEng program may be able to cut short their degree and graduate with a BEng instead.
The MEng allows students to develop a greater depth of chemical engineering skills, knowledge in chemical engineering and complete a wider range of project work. Once you have accumulated the necessary work experience, qualifications, skills and knowledge, an accredited MEng also allows you to gain the status of Chartered Chemical Engineer. Many institutions offer a “sandwich year”, in which students spend one year working in industry and/or studying abroad. You may also be able to combine chemical engineering with another discipline such as environmental engineering, business management, foreign languages and subjects in the humanities.
Regardless of whether you choose a BEng or MEng, you’ll begin your degree program with some core chemical engineering courses, covering fields such as pure and applied mathematics, computing and computer-aided design (CAD), and the sciences. You’ll then proceed to study these topics in more depth, with the option to specialize by choosing from a range of elective courses. In later years, you’ll move on to more advanced laboratory classes, working with large-scale and industrial equipment. You can also expect to learn about the wider context of chemical engineering, including financial, ethical and environmental issues, and may have the opportunity to study business, finance and management courses.
Typically, chemical engineering courses are taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, computer practice sessions, extensive practical laboratory work and project work (individual and group). Some institutions will offer online teaching, as well as site visits (or field work). Your institution may also be able to provide classes by industry professionals, who will give an insight to current industrial practices and concerns.
Final assessment is typically a substantial research and development project, but you may also be tested through written examination, coursework, laboratory reports, multiple choice examinations, oral presentations, and interviews.

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