BEng Chemical Engineering

At Sheffield, you don’t just sit in lectures—you actually do chemical engineering. From the very first year, you’ll be in world-class labs, running real processes, testing your ideas, and using the same kind of equipment and software that engineers rely on in industry. It’s about learning by doing, so that every theory you study is backed up by real, hands-on experience.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Diamond Pilot Plant (DiPP) – the star of the department. It’s a full-scale working plant, where you can manufacture tablets, explore sustainable fuels like Power-to-X, or run bioprocessing projects. You’ll even step into an actual control room, using real-time data and industrial simulation software to make engineering decisions.

• Digital Innovation Zone (DIZ) – created with Siemens, this is where chemical engineering meets the digital world. You’ll work with live data, CAD modelling, and digital twin technology, getting a taste of how Industry 4.0 is transforming engineering.

• The Diamond Building labs – Sheffield’s engineering hub, packed with dedicated spaces for chemical engineers. You’ll carry out experiments in the Analytics Lab with crystallisers, distillation columns and gas chromatography, and test thermal and fluid processes in the Thermodynamics Lab.

• Cleanroom facilities – a rare chance to work in an ultra-clean environment, where you can build and test micro-scale devices like sensors or microfluidic systems.

• Industrial placement year – you’ll have the option to take a paid year in industry, applying everything you’ve learned while gaining real-world experience and connections.

A Chemical Engineering degree from Sheffield opens doors to careers where you can make a real difference. Many of our graduates step straight into roles as Process Engineers, R&D Scientists, Sustainability Consultants, or move into the energy and manufacturing industries. What sets Sheffield graduates apart is that they don’t just leave with knowledge—they leave with the confidence, skills, and industry connections to thrive.

Here’s how the University helps you get there:

• Personalised career guidance – dedicated support from the Faculty Careers team, with one-to-one advice on CVs, interviews, networking, and placement opportunities.

• Impressive outcomes – around 95% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, with the majority securing skilled roles directly linked to their degree.

• Strong earning potential – graduates report an average salary of £32,500 just 15 months after graduation, rising to £41,000 within five years.

• Real industry experience – you’ll have the chance to complete an industrial placement year and work with cutting-edge facilities such as the Diamond Pilot Plant and Digital Innovation Zone, preparing you for the challenges of the sector.

• Globally respected accreditation – the degree is fully accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), meaning you’ll be on the pathway to becoming a Chartered Engineer (CEng)—a credential recognised worldwide.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’d like to take your studies further, Sheffield offers progression routes into an MEng, and postgraduate opportunities such as an MSc or PhD in fields like sustainable processes, energy systems, or advanced materials. These advanced qualifications can lead to careers in research, academia, or leadership roles in global industries.