Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at Abu Dhabi University (ADU) is a four-year engineering programme that teaches students how to apply mathematics, chemistry, physics, and engineering principles to design, optimise, and operate processes that convert raw materials into useful products. It suits students who want careers in energy, water technology, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, materials, environmental systems, and process industries, balancing strong theoretical foundations with practical laboratory work and industry exposure.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students establish core scientific and engineering foundations through courses such as General Chemistry, Introductory Chemical Engineering, Structured Programming, and Engineering Ethics, Law & Economy, which introduce the behaviour of matter, basic problem-solving methods, and responsible professional practice. Laboratory sessions like Chemistry Lab reinforce experimental techniques and data interpretation, while mathematics and physics units build analytical skills that are essential for future simulation and design work. This year lays the groundwork for understanding both scientific fundamentals and engineering contexts. 

Year 2:
During the second year, learners transition into core chemical engineering science with modules such as Principles of Chemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics I, and Fluid Mechanics for Chemical Engineers, where they begin to analyse how energy, mass, and momentum transfer govern real processes. Courses like Materials Science help students understand how materials behave under engineering conditions, and Modeling and Simulation in Chemical Engineering introduces computational tools and lab work for process analysis. Students also continue general education subjects that strengthen teamwork and communication. 

Year 3:
In the third year, students deepen their technical expertise through advanced modules including Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics II, Mass Transfer, Chemical Reaction Engineering, Process Dynamics and Control, and Heat Transfer. These courses focus on unit operations and systems behaviour, teaching learners to design, model, and control key process components in chemical plants. Embedded laboratory units such as Chemical Engineering Laboratory I provide hands-on experimentation that reinforces theoretical concepts and supports real-world problem solving. 

Year 4:
The final year focuses on professional synthesis and preparedness with Separation Processes, Chemical Engineering Laboratory II, Process Design, and a multi-stage Capstone Design Project. Students integrate all prior learning to tackle complex design challenges and develop complete process solutions, while industry-linked placements such as Internship I & II and courses like Industrial Software for Chemical Engineers ensure familiarity with workplace tools and standards. Elective options allow further specialisation in areas such as water technology and environmental applications. 

Focus areas (in a string):
Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, mass transfer, heat transfer, reaction engineering, process dynamics & control, separation processes, process design, materials science, modelling & simulation, laboratory techniques, water technology. 

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Apply core engineering and scientific principles to solve chemical process problems; design and optimise unit operations; perform experiments and interpret data; model and simulate processes using software tools; communicate engineering solutions; and demonstrate ethical, economic, and environmental awareness in professional practice. 

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET and meets international quality standards for engineering education, while Abu Dhabi University itself is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education’s Commission for Academic Accreditation, ensuring national and global recognition of the degree. 

Reputation (employability rankings):
Abu Dhabi University is ranked in global listings such as QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, reflecting institutional academic quality; chemical engineering graduates are well positioned for employment in energy, water technology, materials, pharmaceuticals, and environmental sectors, supported by ADU’s industry links and applied learning emphasis.