Study chemical engineering abroad

Chemical engineering is the science of converting raw materials into useful products, processes, or technologies. It involves elements of chemistry, biology, engineering, mathematics, economics, and physics.

The field of chemical engineering has expanded in recent decades to accommodate the increasing global demand for renewable energy, clean water and sanitation, pharmaceuticals, food manufacturing processes, and artificial materials. You’ll study every stage of the chemical engineering chain, from molecular-level laboratory work, to technological implementation at manufacturing plants.

By studying chemical engineering abroad, you could be at the forefront of exciting international advancements in the sector. You’ll see how multinational companies are designing, developing, and manufacturing new products for human consumption. You’ll network with industry experts, improve your employability, and make new friends on the adventure of a lifetime.

The content and duration of your studies will depend on the type of chemical engineering program you select. Undergraduates can choose to study a bachelor of engineering (BEng) program over three or four years, or a master of engineering (MEng) qualification over four or five years.

Although these courses initially share similar modules and content, MEng students will ultimately study a wider range of topics in greater depth. Only students with an MEng will achieve fully-chartered engineer status from the Institution of Chemical Engineers.

Once you’ve completed your master’s, you can choose to study a PhD. A PhD is the highest level of postgraduate qualification and can take anywhere from four to seven years to finish.

Chemical engineering programs are renowned for their high number of contact hours and expectations of independent study. You’ll be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical laboratory sessions, group workshops, and tutorials. Some institutions will invite industry professionals to deliver guest lectures and organize visits to engineering sites.

All chemical engineering students are encouraged to complete a sandwich year during their studies to gain hands-on experience in the industry, network with professionals, and boost their employability. Assessment methods will vary from module to module, but you can expect to complete exams, essays, reports, presentations, group work, and independent research projects.

Although the titles of modules and their content will differ slightly between universities around the world, most chemical engineering courses will cover these topics:

• Separation processes
• Thermodynamics
• Cell biology
• Heat, mass, and momentum
• Fluid mechanics
• Managing the environment
• Plant design
• Process systems and operations

Today, so many aspects of human life depend on the work of chemical engineers. Companies and businesses are increasingly relying on chemical engineers to produce their products and provide their services.

That’s why chemical engineers are amongst the most in-demand graduates around the world. Your scientific and analytical skills could kickstart your career in any of the following roles:

• Energy process engineer
• Quality assurance engineer
• Biomedical engineer
• Chemical manufacturer
• Plant manager
• Wastewater engineer
• Food process engineer
• Product/process development engineer

If you’re unsure about which branch of chemical engineering you’d like to get into, try securing some work experience during your university holidays. This will help you narrow down your interests and give you a taste of potential careers. Your university’s career service can support you with work experience and internship applications.