BEng Chemical Engineering

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Chester

Program Overview

If you’ve always been curious about how raw materials can be transformed into everyday products in safe, sustainable, and efficient ways, Chester’s Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons) could be the perfect fit. It’s a hands-on course that blends science, maths, and real-world engineering, giving you the technical knowledge and practical experience to make an impact in industries like energy, pharmaceuticals, food, and sustainability.

Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year (optional)
If you don’t quite meet the entry requirements, the Foundation Year is a great stepping stone. You’ll strengthen your skills in maths, chemistry, and applied science through modules like Introduction to Scientific Principles and Mathematics for Physical Sciences, so you’re fully prepared to take on core engineering modules the following year.

Year 1
Your first year is about building solid foundations in chemical engineering. You’ll cover Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer, Thermodynamics, and Mass & Energy Balances, alongside chemistry and maths. It’s a mix of lectures, lab work, and problem-solving sessions that show you how the science you already know applies to real engineering challenges.

Year 2
In your second year, things step up a gear. You’ll explore Separation Processes, Process Analysis, and Further Chemical Engineering, with more emphasis on modelling and sustainability. A key highlight is your five-week industrial placement, where you’ll get real workplace experience and see what a chemical engineer’s day looks like.

Year 3
Your final year is where it all comes together. You’ll take modules such as Chemical Reactors and Catalysis and Process Systems Engineering, but the main focus is your Design Project. Working as part of a team, you’ll design an entire chemical process plant—taking into account safety, efficiency, sustainability, and cost—just like you would in industry. It’s a fantastic way to showcase everything you’ve learned to future employers.

Focus areas

“Process Design; Sustainability & Environmental Impact; Chemical Reactors & Catalysis; Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics; Separation Processes; Mathematical Modelling; Industrial Placement Experience”

Learning outcomes

“By the end of the course, you’ll know how to apply chemical engineering principles to real processes, design safe and sustainable systems, use modelling and simulation tools, and work confidently in labs and on design projects. You’ll also develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills that employers really value.”

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This degree is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), meaning it meets the high standards of the profession and puts you on the path to becoming a Chartered Engineer.

Reputation (employability, rankings)

Chester places a strong emphasis on placements and employability—you’ll get real industry experience before you graduate. The University was ranked 3rd in the UK for course quality (2024, UniCompare), and the smaller class sizes mean you’ll have more one-to-one support from lecturers who know you by name.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Chester, Chemical Engineering isn’t just about lectures and textbooks—you get to learn by doing from day one. You’ll put theory into practice in real labs, workshops, and even a chemical engineering pilot plant, while also gaining first-hand experience in industry placements. The course is designed so that every year, you’re building practical skills that make you confident, capable, and career-ready:

Here’s what that looks like in action:

Industrial placements: Test your skills in the real world with a voluntary placement in Year 1 and a compulsory five-week placement in Year 2, giving you a taste of life in industry and a head start on networking.
Pilot plant & process labs: Get hands-on experience with large-scale chemical processes, learning how to scale up reactions safely and efficiently.
Workshops and materials testing labs: Explore the properties of materials, thermal behavior, and mechanical performance in fully equipped labs.
Process modelling & simulation software: Use professional flowsheeting and design software in modules like Process Systems Engineering to design and analyse chemical plants digitally.
Team-based design projects: Collaborate with your peers on your final-year capstone Design Project, integrating safety, sustainability, and real-world engineering challenges.
Problem-based learning: Engage with case studies, interactive workshops, and tutor-led problem solving to apply knowledge in practical scenarios.
Support & mentoring: Benefit from a personal academic tutor who guides your projects, placements, and career decisions.

At Chester, you’re not just learning chemical engineering—you’re experiencing it, practicing it, and preparing to make an impact in your future career.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons) from Chester opens doors to a range of exciting careers. Whether you're interested in designing sustainable energy systems, improving manufacturing processes, or developing new chemical products, this degree equips you with the skills and knowledge to succeed. Typical roles include:

Process Engineer: Designing and optimizing chemical processes in industries like pharmaceuticals, food production, and energy.
Environmental Engineer: Developing solutions to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability.
Production Manager: Overseeing manufacturing operations to ensure efficiency and quality.
Research and Development (R&D) Specialist: Innovating and testing new chemical products and processes.

University Support Services

Chester provides comprehensive support to help you transition from student to professional:

Careers and Employability Team: Offers personalized career advice, CV workshops, and interview preparation.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborates with leading companies to provide placement opportunities and industry insights.
Personal Academic Tutors: Guides you through academic challenges and career planning.

Employment Statistics and Salary Figures

While specific statistics for this program are not provided, graduates from similar engineering disciplines often find employment in various sectors. The university's strong industry connections and emphasis on practical experience enhance employability prospects.

University–Industry Partnerships

Chester's School of Natural Sciences maintains strong links with industry, ensuring that the curriculum is aligned with current industry needs and providing students with opportunities for placements and collaborative projects.

Long-Term Accreditation Value

The BEng (Hons) degree is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), a globally recognized professional body. This accreditation is valuable for those seeking to become Chartered Engineers, enhancing career prospects both in the UK and internationally.

Graduation Outcomes

Graduates are well-prepared for the workforce, with many securing roles in engineering firms, environmental agencies, and research institutions. The combination of academic rigor and practical experience makes Chester graduates highly competitive in the job market.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the BEng (Hons), you have several options to continue your studies:

MEng (Hons) in Chemical Engineering: For those interested in a more in-depth study and aiming for Chartered Engineer status.
Master's Degrees: Specialize in areas like Environmental Engineering, Process Systems Engineering, or Renewable Energy.
Doctoral Research (PhD): Pursue advanced research in chemical engineering topics, contributing to innovation in the field.

This progression allows you to tailor your education to your career aspirations, whether you're aiming for advanced technical roles, leadership positions, or academic research.