Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours), Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

The Curtin University Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours), Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) is a 5-year double degree that combines advanced chemical engineering expertise with in-depth chemistry knowledge, preparing graduates to solve complex challenges in energy, materials, pharmaceuticals, mining, and industrial chemical production. Delivered at Curtin’s Bentley Campus in Perth, Western Australia, the program is ideal for students who want to bridge scientific discovery with large-scale industrial application, gaining strong skills in both laboratory chemistry and chemical process engineering.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students develop foundational knowledge in chemistry, mathematics, physics, and introductory engineering principles. Core units such as General Chemistry, Engineering Mathematics, and Engineering Fundamentals introduce students to scientific analysis, laboratory techniques, and basic engineering problem-solving.

Year 2

Second year focuses on core chemical engineering principles alongside deeper chemistry studies. Students study units including Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Fluid Mechanics, and Thermodynamics, building a strong understanding of molecular behaviour and industrial process fundamentals.

Year 3

By third year, students progress into advanced chemical engineering systems and higher-level chemistry concepts. Engineering subjects such as Heat and Mass Transfer and Reaction Engineering are combined with advanced chemistry units in areas like analytical or inorganic chemistry, linking scientific theory with industrial application.

Year 4

Fourth year emphasises process design, advanced chemical systems, and applied chemistry research. Students complete units such as Process Systems Engineering, Chemical Process Design, and advanced chemistry electives, developing expertise in both industrial engineering and laboratory-based scientific investigation.

Year 5

In the final year, students complete an honours-level research or design project integrating chemical engineering and chemistry. The capstone experience focuses on solving real-world challenges in energy, materials, sustainability, pharmaceuticals, or industrial process innovation.

Focus Areas

Chemical process engineering, organic and physical chemistry, reaction engineering, thermodynamics, materials science, industrial chemistry, process design, sustainability, energy systems, analytical chemistry

Learning Outcomes

Develop advanced chemical engineering and chemistry knowledge, design and optimise industrial processes, conduct scientific and engineering research, analyse chemical systems at molecular and industrial scales, apply sustainable engineering solutions, and integrate laboratory science with process engineering practice

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The chemical engineering component is accredited by Engineers Australia, enabling graduates to achieve professional engineer recognition and international mobility. The chemistry component supports strong pathways into scientific research, laboratory industries, and advanced chemical innovation sectors.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Curtin University is internationally recognised for strong industry engagement, applied learning, and graduate employability. It is ranked in global systems such as the QS World University Rankings, particularly for engineering and science disciplines, and is well known for producing work-ready graduates with strong industry connections.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Curtin University, this dual degree is very hands-on—you’re constantly applying what you learn in both chemistry and engineering. You’ll spend time in modern labs, working with real equipment, analysing materials, and understanding how industrial processes actually operate. What makes it even more valuable is that you’re learning in spaces connected to active research in areas like energy, materials, and sustainability.

From early lab work to final-year projects, your learning builds step by step—so by the time you graduate, you’re already comfortable working with tools and systems used in industry:

Specialised labs: Access to chemistry and molecular science labs for experiments, material analysis, and techniques like spectroscopy
Process and unit operations labs: Hands-on experience with fluid mechanics systems and chemical process equipment
Research facilities: Use of dedicated chemical engineering research labs, especially during advanced projects and final year work
Simulation tools: Exposure to modelling and computational tools used to study and optimise chemical systems
High-performance computing: Opportunities to work with powerful computing systems for complex simulations and data analysis
Living Lab environment: Learn from real-time building and energy data on campus, applying engineering concepts to real systems
Team-based projects: Regular group work where you design solutions and solve practical engineering problems
Research-led learning: Study alongside ongoing research in areas like hydrogen energy, advanced materials, and process engineering
Study spaces & tech access: Well-equipped libraries and computer labs with software and resources for engineering and science students

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Curtin University’s Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours), Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) are uniquely positioned for careers that sit at the intersection of industrial engineering and advanced chemical science. This dual qualification prepares students for high-demand roles in energy, mining, pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental management, and chemical manufacturing industries. Typical career pathways include Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Chemist, and Materials or Sustainability Scientist:

Curtin Careers and Employability Service: Students receive personalised support including career counselling, CV and interview preparation, job application assistance, and access to employer networking events and graduate recruitment programs.
Industry Experience and Placement Opportunities: Curtin supports internships, vacation work, and industry-linked learning experiences with organisations across Western Australia’s major sectors including mining, energy, chemicals, and manufacturing.
Strong Industry Partnerships (WA Industry Network): The university maintains close connections with leading companies in resources, energy, chemical processing, and scientific research, supporting real-world learning and employment pathways.
Professional Accreditation Value: The engineering component is accredited by Engineers Australia, enabling graduates to pursue professional engineer status and international recognition through global accreditation agreements.
Research and Innovation Exposure: Students engage with Curtin’s research strengths in chemistry, energy systems, advanced materials, and industrial process innovation, supporting careers in research and development.
Graduate Employment Outcomes: Curtin engineering and science graduates are highly regarded for their technical capability and practical experience, leading to strong employment outcomes across engineering, science, and industrial sectors.
Median Salary: Graduates in chemical engineering and chemistry-related fields in Australia typically earn a median starting salary of approximately AUD $80,000–$95,000, with higher earning potential in mining, energy, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing industries.
Global Career Opportunities: The dual qualification enables graduates to work internationally in multinational corporations, research institutions, and advanced industrial sectors across engineering and chemical science domains.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this dual degree, graduates may pursue advanced study such as a Master of Professional Engineering, Master of Chemistry, or specialised postgraduate programs in materials science, environmental engineering, or energy systems. Students can also progress into a PhD in Chemical Engineering or Chemical Sciences, focusing on research in areas such as sustainable processes, advanced materials, industrial chemistry, or energy innovation.