Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

RMIT University

Program Overview

The RMIT Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours) is a 5-year double degree that combines strong scientific training with advanced chemical engineering expertise, preparing students to solve complex challenges in energy, materials, environment, and industrial process systems. Delivered at RMIT’s City Campus (Melbourne) with access to engineering and science learning environments across its broader Bundoora campus facilities, this program is ideal for students who want a powerful blend of scientific research capability and industry-focused engineering skills for careers in innovation, technology, and sustainable development.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students build foundational knowledge in chemistry, mathematics, physics, and introductory science disciplines while also beginning core engineering studies. Subjects such as Chemistry for Scientists, Engineering Mathematics, and Engineering Design Fundamentals help students develop analytical thinking, laboratory skills, and problem-solving abilities across both science and engineering contexts.

Year 2

Second year focuses on strengthening core chemical engineering principles while expanding scientific understanding through chosen science disciplines. Students study units such as Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Material and Energy Balances, alongside science subjects in areas like chemistry, environmental science, or physics, creating a strong interdisciplinary base.

Year 3

By third year, students progress into advanced chemical engineering systems and higher-level science studies. Engineering subjects such as Heat and Mass Transfer and Reaction Engineering are combined with advanced science coursework, enabling students to apply scientific theory to real industrial and technological challenges.

Year 4

Fourth year emphasises specialised engineering design, scientific analysis, and applied research. Students complete units such as Process Control and Design, advanced engineering electives, and science-focused research subjects that deepen their ability to work across scientific and industrial environments.

Year 5

In the final year, students complete an honours-level research or design project that integrates scientific investigation with chemical engineering solutions. The capstone experience develops expertise in solving complex problems in sustainability, energy systems, advanced materials, and industrial innovation.

Focus Areas

Chemical process engineering, scientific research, environmental science, materials science, thermodynamics, reaction engineering, sustainability, industrial innovation, data analysis, energy systems, interdisciplinary problem solving

Learning Outcomes

Develop advanced scientific and chemical engineering knowledge, conduct independent research, design and optimise industrial systems, apply scientific principles to engineering challenges, analyse complex multidisciplinary problems, and integrate science with engineering innovation for real-world applications

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The engineering component of the program is accredited by Engineers Australia, ensuring international professional recognition and eligibility for professional engineer status. The science component supports strong pathways into research, laboratory science, and advanced industrial applications.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

RMIT University is internationally recognised for strong industry connections, applied learning, and graduate employability. It consistently performs well in the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education Rankings, particularly in engineering, science, and technology disciplines, reflecting its strong global reputation for career-focused education.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in RMIT’s Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours) develop strong practical and industry-ready skills through laboratory-based science training, engineering design studios, and real-world project work that connects scientific discovery with industrial chemical engineering applications. The program is structured to ensure students regularly apply both scientific methods and engineering principles using modern tools, research environments, and collaborative learning spaces across RMIT’s City Campus (Melbourne) and supporting Bundoora campus facilities. This integrated approach ensures graduates are comfortable working in both scientific research settings and large-scale industrial engineering environments:

Chemical Engineering Laboratories (City Campus): Hands-on experimentation in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, reaction engineering, and transport processes using industry-standard laboratory systems.
Science Laboratories (Chemistry, Physics, and Materials Science): Practical scientific training in experimental design, chemical analysis, materials testing, and environmental science investigations.
Engineering and Science Research Projects: Students complete collaborative and independent projects that combine scientific research with chemical engineering design challenges in sustainability, energy, and industrial systems.
Process Simulation and Modelling Software: Use of professional engineering tools such as MATLAB and process modelling platforms for analysing chemical systems, data interpretation, and optimisation studies.
Engineering Design Studios: Team-based learning environments where students design, test, and refine engineering solutions for real-world industrial and environmental problems.
Capstone Honours Research Project: Final-year research integrating science and chemical engineering to solve complex problems in areas such as renewable energy, advanced materials, and industrial process innovation.
Work-Integrated Learning (Industry Experience): Opportunities for internships, industry projects, and professional engagement with organisations in chemical manufacturing, energy, environmental science, and biotechnology sectors.
Advanced Computing and Data Analysis Facilities: Access to computer labs for simulation, scientific computing, data analysis, and engineering modelling tasks.
RMIT Library and Digital Research Resources: Extensive access to scientific journals, engineering databases, technical standards, and research materials supporting both science and engineering coursework.
Industry Engagement and Guest Learning: Exposure to industry professionals through guest lectures, site visits, and networking opportunities across science and engineering sectors.
Innovation and Sustainability Focus Learning Spaces: Collaborative environments designed to support interdisciplinary problem-solving in sustainability, clean energy, and advanced industrial systems.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of RMIT’s Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours) are highly versatile professionals, combining strong scientific expertise with advanced chemical engineering capabilities. This makes them well suited for careers in energy, environmental science, advanced materials, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and research-driven industries where innovation and interdisciplinary thinking are essential. Typical career pathways include Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research Scientist, and Environmental or Sustainability Engineer:

RMIT Careers and Employability Services: Students receive personalised career support including resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, job search assistance, and access to employer networking and graduate recruitment events.
Industry-Integrated Learning (Work-Integrated Learning): The program includes industry projects, practical placements, and applied learning experiences that connect students directly with science and engineering employers.
Industry Partnerships: RMIT maintains strong collaborations with organisations across chemical manufacturing, energy, biotechnology, environmental science, and advanced materials sectors, supporting real-world learning and employment pathways.
Professional Accreditation Value: The engineering component is accredited by Engineers Australia, ensuring international recognition and eligibility for professional engineer status under global accreditation agreements.
Research and Innovation Pathways: Students gain exposure to applied research environments in both science and engineering, supporting careers in innovation, laboratory science, and industrial R&D.
Graduate Employability Outcomes: RMIT graduates are recognised for their strong practical training and industry readiness, with high employability across engineering, science, and technology sectors.
Median Salary: Graduates in chemical engineering and science-related engineering fields in Australia typically earn a median starting salary of approximately AUD $80,000–$100,000, depending on industry sector, with higher salaries in energy, manufacturing, and advanced industrial roles.
Global Career Opportunities: The combined science and engineering qualification enables graduates to work internationally in multinational companies, research institutions, environmental organisations, and advanced manufacturing industries.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this dual degree, graduates may pursue advanced study such as a Master of Engineering, Master of Science, Master of Environmental Science, or specialised postgraduate programs in biotechnology, sustainability, or advanced materials. Students can also continue into a PhD in Chemical Engineering or Scientific Research, focusing on areas like renewable energy systems, industrial innovation, environmental solutions, or advanced chemical technologies.