BEng Chemical Engineering Including Placement Year

The BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering with Professional Placement at the University of Bath is a four-year program designed to equip students with the technical and professional skills necessary for a successful career in chemical engineering. The course combines rigorous academic study with practical experience, including a year-long industrial placement, to provide a comprehensive education in chemical engineering principles and practices.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations of Chemical Engineering

In the first year, students are introduced to the core principles of chemical engineering, including fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and material and energy balances. Modules such as 'Chemical Engineering Principles' and 'Mathematics for Engineers' lay the groundwork for more advanced study. Practical lab sessions complement theoretical learning, allowing students to apply concepts in real-world scenarios.

Year 2: Intermediate Chemical Engineering Concepts

The second year builds on foundational knowledge, delving into topics like reaction engineering, process control, and heat and mass transfer. Modules such as 'Process Engineering' and 'Transport Phenomena' deepen students' understanding of chemical processes. Students also engage in group projects, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Year 3: Industrial Placement

During the third year, students undertake a professional placement in the chemical engineering industry. This year-long experience provides valuable hands-on practice, allowing students to apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting, gain industry insights, and develop essential workplace skills.

Year 4: Advanced Topics and Final Year Project

In the final year, students explore advanced topics such as process design, sustainability, and advanced separation techniques. Modules like 'Advanced Process Design' and 'Sustainable Chemical Engineering' prepare students for the complexities of modern chemical engineering challenges. The culmination of the program is a substantial individual project, where students design and analyze a chemical process, integrating their learning from throughout the course.

Focus Areas

The program emphasizes key areas of chemical engineering, including process design, sustainability, and industrial applications. Students gain expertise in designing efficient and sustainable chemical processes, preparing them to address contemporary challenges in the field.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the program will have developed strong analytical and problem-solving skills, proficiency in process design and optimization, and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. They will be equipped to tackle complex engineering problems and contribute to innovative solutions in the chemical engineering industry.

Professional Alignment

The program is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), ensuring that it meets the high standards required for professional recognition. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue Chartered Engineer status, enhancing their professional credentials and career prospects.

Reputation

The University of Bath is renowned for its strong focus on employability, with a significant percentage of engineering graduates securing employment within six months of graduation. The integration of a professional placement year further enhances students' employability by providing practical experience and industry connections.