MEng Chemical Engineering

One of the things that really sets Bath apart is how much emphasis they put on learning by doing. From your very first year, you won’t just be sitting in lectures — you’ll be in the labs, running experiments, and working on real engineering problems. The department is packed with specialist labs for everything from biochemical engineering to reaction and separation processes, so you get hands-on practice with the exact equipment used in industry.

What’s also exciting is the amount of teamwork and project-based learning. Instead of only focusing on theory, you’ll actually design systems and processes — projects have ranged from developing water-treatment plants for refugee camps to creating low-carbon ammonia production systems. Add to that the option of a paid industrial placement year (where students typically earn between £16,000–£25,000), and you leave Bath with a CV full of experience, not just a degree.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Specialist labs and facilities: You’ll use microbial bioreactors, continuous reactors, and cutting-edge biochemical engineering labs focused on future fuels and foods. There are also advanced separation labs and reaction engineering research spaces where you’ll practice the same methods professionals use.

• Group and individual projects: You’ll collaborate with classmates on design challenges, then take on your own project to show you can carry an idea from small-scale testing all the way through to a full process design.

• Digital tools and modeling: Bath trains you to build and test mathematical models, giving you experience with the kinds of software used to design safe and sustainable processes in industry.

• Industrial placements and internships: A standout part of this degree is the placement year. You get paid, professional experience in a real chemical engineering environment — and Bath’s dedicated placements team helps connect you with top employers. If you’d prefer shorter commitments, there are summer internships, insight days, and even research placements on campus.

• Industry input: Guest lectures from professionals and research-active staff mean the content you’re learning is always connected to what’s happening in the real world.

Graduates of the MEng Chemical Engineering program at the University of Bath leave with the skills, confidence, and practical experience to make an impact in a variety of industries. Many go on to roles such as Process Engineer, Environmental Consultant, R&D Specialist, or Project Manager, working in sectors like pharmaceuticals, energy, water treatment, and consumer goods.

Here’s what makes Bath graduates stand out:

• Professional Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), which boosts your professional recognition and helps you work towards becoming a Chartered Engineer.

• Industry Placements: You can take a year-long industrial placement, giving you real-world experience and valuable connections before you even graduate.

• Strong Graduate Outcomes: Bath engineering graduates earn, on average, 17% more than the national graduate average within six months of finishing their degree.

• University–Industry Partnerships: The university works closely with leading companies, giving students opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and development projects.

• Long-Term Value: IChemE accreditation and Bath’s reputation make your degree globally recognized, opening doors to international career opportunities.

• Graduation Ready: You’ll graduate with both technical skills and practical experience, prepared to thrive in engineering roles around the world.

Further Academic Progression:

After finishing the MEng Chemical Engineering degree, you can continue your studies with a Master’s or PhD in areas like Sustainable Energy, Advanced Materials, or Environmental Engineering. These advanced programs allow you to specialize further, open doors to research and leadership roles, and strengthen your long-term career prospects. Bath also offers a supportive research environment and access to professional networks, helping you take your learning even further.