The Chemical Engineering MEng (Hons) at Loughborough University blends science, creativity, and real-world problem solving. You’ll learn how to turn raw materials into useful products while tackling global challenges like sustainable energy, healthcare innovations, and advanced manufacturing. This program suits curious, hands-on students who enjoy both chemistry and engineering and want a degree that opens doors across industries.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of Chemical Engineering
Your first year lays the groundwork for everything to come. You’ll get to grips with core chemical and biochemical processes, explore heat transfer, and understand how separation processes work. Modules like Introduction to Chemical, Biochemical Processes and Sustainability, Stagewise Processes, and Heat Transfer combine theory with practical lab sessions to give you a solid start.
Year 2: Building Your Skills
Year 2 deepens your understanding and introduces you to more complex engineering concepts. You’ll study Mass Transfer and Separations, Process Design and Safety, and Fluid Mechanics II, learning not only the principles but also how to apply them in real-world scenarios and industry-style projects.
Year 3: Advanced Engineering and Design
This is where you start to think like a professional engineer. You’ll tackle Reaction Engineering I, Plant Engineering, and Particle Technology, putting your knowledge into practice through design exercises and lab-based experimentation. You’ll also get a taste of project work that mirrors what chemical engineers do in industry.
Year 4: Specialisation and Professional Development
In your final year, it’s all about honing your expertise and preparing for your career. You’ll complete an Individual Process Design Project, dive into Chemical Process Control, and pick optional modules like Operations Management, Biochemical Engineering, or Entrepreneurship and Innovation to tailor the degree to your interests. This year ensures you leave confident, skilled, and ready for the professional world.
Focus Areas
Process Design, Sustainability, Biochemical Engineering, Particle Technology, Fluid Mechanics, Process Control, Industrial Safety, CFD, Chemical Reaction Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to design and optimize chemical processes, apply sustainable practices, analyze complex systems, and communicate your ideas clearly — all the skills employers are looking for.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This program is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), giving you a direct route toward becoming a Chartered Chemical Engineer — a major advantage for your career.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
Loughborough is consistently ranked among the UK’s top universities for graduate employability, thanks to strong industry links, real-world project experience, and high graduate success rates.
At Loughborough, learning chemical engineering goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. From your first year, you'll be actively applying your knowledge in state-of-the-art labs, tackling real-world challenges, and using industry-standard software. The program is designed to give you hands-on experience, build professional skills, and prepare you to hit the ground running in your future career.
Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:
Advanced Laboratories – Work in dedicated chemical engineering labs, including pilot-scale rigs, where you can simulate real industrial processes and run experiments safely.
Industry-standard Software – Use tools like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to model and optimize processes, just like professional engineers.
Group and Individual Projects – Collaborate with classmates on projects that mirror real industry challenges and complete an individual design project in your final year.
Placement Opportunities – Optional industrial placements allow you to gain work experience, build your network, and see firsthand how chemical engineers operate in industry.
Research Facilities – Access cutting-edge research labs and equipment, giving you the chance to get involved in advanced engineering projects.
Professional Development Programs – Take part in programs that develop communication, leadership, and project management skills highly valued by employers.
Industry Engagement – Guest lectures, seminars, and workshops from chemical engineering professionals connect you directly to the sector.
These experiences ensure you don’t just graduate with a degree, but with practical skills, confidence, and a portfolio of real-world experience that employers look for.
Graduating with a Chemical Engineering MEng from Loughborough University opens doors to a wide range of exciting career paths. With an average starting salary of £29,500, our graduates are well-equipped to embark on roles such as:
Process Engineer – Designing and optimizing chemical processes in various industries.
Project Manager – Leading and coordinating engineering projects from conception to completion.
Research and Development Specialist – Innovating and developing new chemical products and processes.
Environmental Consultant – Advising on sustainable practices and environmental impact assessments.
Loughborough's strong industry connections and comprehensive support services ensure that students are well-prepared for these roles:
Career Support: The award-winning Careers Network offers CV workshops, mock interviews, and employer events to enhance employability.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with leading companies provide opportunities for placements and real-world experience.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), facilitating progression towards Chartered Engineer status.
Graduate Outcomes: A significant percentage of graduates secure employment or further study within six months of graduation.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MEng, students have the option to pursue advanced studies, such as:
MSc in Advanced Chemical Engineering: Deepening knowledge in specialized areas of chemical engineering.
PhD in Chemical Engineering: Engaging in cutting-edge research and contributing to advancements in the field.
These pathways provide opportunities for further specialization and career advancement in the chemical engineering sector.



Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
