Engineering

MEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering

Length: 4/5 years
UCAS code: H810 MEng/CE
Typical offer: individualised offer following an interview or 280 tariff points

Chemical engineering brings together physics, mathematics and chemistry. It examines the engineering of processes and products, with an emphasis on finding practical solutions to real industrial problems. The development of the skills, knowledge and personal qualities necessary for any chemical engineering role is a key part. We maintain and progress links with the local plastics, petrochemical and chemical industries which in turn provide fantastic opportunities for work placements and projects. Speakers from these industries are invited to take part in the course. You will benefit from these close ties throughout your time at the University.

What you will study

In Year 1, you will study the basics of engineering mathematics and science which form the basis for the rest of the course. Year 2 deals with the principles of chemical and process engineering operations. Year 3 draws together the skills acquired to produce an over plant design and expand the knowledge into an advanced area of processing. In your final year, you build on the understanding of core chemical engineering, but are also allowed to choose options which broaden your knowledge. In this year a high level of autonomy is expected, in particular for the project work.

In addition, the course has been designed to develop skills and attributes which will prepare you for the world of work. For example you will undertake a series of intensive projects which will mimic real-life situations and help you become an effective team member.

How you learn

You will have a range of lectures, small-group tutorials and hands-on laboratory sessions. Most of your first-year learning is based around case studies, following visits to local industries. A theme of process design through group work runs through all of the course.

The course has been designed to provide a number of contact teaching and assessment hours (such as lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, projects, examinations), but you are also expected to spend time on your own, called ‘self-study’ time, to review lecture notes, prepare coursework assignments, work on projects and revise for assessments. Each year of full-time study consists of modules totalling 120 credits and each unit of credit corresponds to ten hours of learning and assessment (contact hours plus self-study hours). So, during one year of full-time study you can expect to have 1,200 hours of learning and assessment.

How you are assessed

Your course will involve a range of types of assessment, including coursework, problem-solving assignments, report writing, presentations and examinations.

Professional placements

The five-year sandwich course is recommended as the work placement provides a realistic introduction to industrial practice. It is usually taken after Year 2 and could be paid. Recent companies involved include Rhom and Haas, Avecia, ConocoPhillips, Croda, Corus, Air Products and Teesside Power Station.

Professional accreditation

This course is in the process of being accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers towards CEng membership.

Career opportunities

Chemical engineers are employed worldwide in activities including research and development, design and plant operation. They are involved in a wide range of sectors, from the utilities, construction and defence, chemicals to oil and pharmaceuticals. Alternative careers include marketing and finance.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally invited for an interview which enables them to see our excellent facilities and meet the staff and students. Each applicant will receive an individualised offer following an interview. In cases where an interview cannot take place the typical offer will be 280 tariff points from at least two A levels or equivalent, which should include a significant content of an appropriate science and mathematics. Key Skills Level 3 and General Studies A level may be accepted.

Applications from suitably-motivated mature students and those with other equivalent qualifications are warmly welcomed.

For additional information please see the standard University entry requirements.