Chemical Engineering (with a Foundation Year) BEng Hons

At Lancaster University, studying Chemical Engineering isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s about getting your hands on real-world problems and learning by doing. From your foundation year through to the main degree, you’ll gain practical skills in purpose-built labs, tackle projects that mirror industrial challenges, and use the same tools and software that professional engineers rely on. Whether you’re analysing processes, running experiments, or working in a team, you’ll leave confident and career-ready.

Here’s what that looks like day to day:

• Foundation Year Support – Start at Cardinal Newman College, Preston, with a foundation year that builds your essential STEM skills so you feel confident and prepared for degree-level study.

• State-of-the-Art Facilities – Work in Lancaster’s cutting-edge engineering labs and workshops, designed to help you experiment, prototype, and innovate.

• Hands-On Laboratory Sessions – Reinforce your learning through practical experiments in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and materials science.

• Team Projects – Collaborate with your classmates on projects that mimic real industry challenges, sharpening both your technical and teamwork skills.

• Industry-Standard Software – Use digital tools and simulations to model processes and analyse data just like professional chemical engineers.

• Placement Opportunities – Gain real-world experience with placements and internships, giving you an edge when entering the job market.

• Collaborative Learning Environment – Work alongside students from other engineering disciplines, building a broader perspective and strong teamwork skills.

Graduates of the Chemical Engineering with a Foundation Year BEng (Hons) from Lancaster University are well-equipped to embark on diverse and rewarding careers. Typical roles include Process Engineer, Design Engineer, Environmental Consultant, and Production Manager. The program's strong emphasis on practical skills, industry connections, and professional development ensures that students are prepared for success in various sectors.

Key highlights of the program's career support and outcomes include:

• Dedicated Careers Support: The university's Careers Team, including a departmental careers coach, provides personalized assistance from day one. Services include CV writing workshops, interview preparation, and guidance on securing internships and graduate employment opportunities.

• Industry Partnerships: Lancaster Engineering has established strong connections with employers, offering students access to internships, placements, and graduate roles in sectors such as management and IT.

• Graduate Employment Outcomes: Graduates from Lancaster's engineering degrees enjoy a median starting salary of £32,000, with many securing positions in highly skilled roles within 15 months of graduation.

• Professional Accreditation: The BEng (Hons) program is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Engineer status and enhancing graduates' professional credentials.

• Further Academic Progression: After completing the BEng (Hons), students have the option to pursue an MEng (Hons) in Chemical Engineering, which offers advanced technical and leadership training, preparing graduates for senior roles in the industry.