Chemical Engineering MEng

At Cambridge, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology isn’t just about theory—it’s where you learn by doing. From your very first year, you'll be rolling up your sleeves in hands-on labs, designing and simulating processes in dedicated computer suites, and even creating prototypes in a fully equipped Makerspace. Whether you’re working solo or teaming up on a group project to explore product or process design, you’ll be applying real-world tools and techniques that top employers value—all while surrounded by a rich, supportive environment that includes social spaces, top-tier libraries, and meaningful connections with researchers and industry.

Now, let's dive into what you’ll actively experience across the years:

Practical Highlights:

• Well‑equipped laboratories for hands-on practicals and research throughout your course (particularly intense in Years 1 & 2, with even more advanced project-based lab work later)

• A Makerspace: complete with 3D printers and workshop tools for mechanical and electronic prototyping, giving you a solid foundation in design and engineering fabricationA dedicated computer suite, where you’ll gain essential computing and process simulation skills from early years onwards

• Group design projects: For instance, in Year 3 you’ll work collaboratively to design a chemical or biological product plant—covering everything from equipment and control systems to safety, environmental impact, and cost analysisResearch-driven Final Year (Year 4, Part III): You develop deeper research skills via a substantial research project that may involve experimental, theoretical, or computational approaches, sometimes linked to actual departmental research or open‑ended ‘blue‑sky’ innovation

• Reflective computing and process simulation workshops, especially in Years 1 and 2, to help you build a strong computational foundation in process design and analysis

• Library support: You’ll have your own subject-specific resources right at the departmental West Hub, plus access to the world-renowned Cambridge University Library

• Social and collaborative spaces: Within the department, there’s a central social area offering a chance to relax, network, and swap ideas with classmates and staff beyond the classroom

• Each of these hands-on elements and spaces is woven into your learning, so you're not just reading about engineering—you’re doing it. From simulated systems to real equipment, from solo computing sessions to team-based design projects, from labs to libraries—you’ll build practical, transferable skills that set you up for a strong career in chemical engineering or biotechnology.

Cambridge Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology graduates go on to thrive in roles like process engineer, research scientist, technical manager, and even pivot into sectors such as management consultancy or finance, bolstered by elite accreditation and industry recognition:

• University services powering your success
  The Careers Service supports you from day one—offering tailored advice, over 200 careers events, around 15 major careers fairs annually, plus thousands of internships via the Handshake platform and bursaries for unpaid placements. You’ll also have the chance to network with employers and alumni through Handshake.

• Strong employment stats
  – 89% of graduates were in work or further study within 15 months.
  – 91% of working graduates were in skilled employment. 

• University–industry partnerships
  Your department maintains active ties with industrial collaborators—enhancing hands-on learning and research relevance. And don’t forget the exciting Formula 1 Engineering Scholarship, offered in partnership with F1 to support students in engineering fields. 

• Accreditation for long-term value
  The 4‑year MEng is fully accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers, allowing you to apply for Chartered Engineer status post-graduation—without additional exams. U

• Graduation outcomes
  Chemical Engineering grads have stepped into roles as process engineers, technical managers, and research scientists, with others branching into sectors like finance and management consultancy thanks to the transferable and highly prized Cambridge skill set. 

Further Academic Progression:
If you're keen to dive deeper after your degree, Cambridge offers exciting paths forward—with the option to pursue research-focused Master’s or PhD study, often supported through EPSRC Centres for Doctoral Training, or take advantage of a one-year MPhil leading into a funded PhD in Engineering and related fields through the Department of Engineering.