Bachelor of Chemical Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy Double Degree

5 Years On Campus Dual-bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

The Curtin University Bachelor of Chemical Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy (Double Degree) is a 5-year integrated program designed to prepare students for high-impact careers in mineral processing, energy production, materials engineering, and large-scale industrial operations. Delivered at Curtin’s Bentley Campus in Perth, Western Australia, this program is ideal for students who want to work at the core of Australia’s resources industry, combining chemical engineering expertise with specialist knowledge in extracting and refining metals from raw materials.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students develop strong foundations in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and introductory engineering principles. Core units such as Engineering Mathematics, Chemistry for Engineers, and Engineering Fundamentals introduce students to scientific analysis, engineering problem-solving, and basic process understanding.

Year 2

Second year focuses on core chemical engineering principles alongside introductory metallurgy concepts. Students study subjects such as Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Material and Energy Balances, while beginning to explore mineral processing and extraction fundamentals relevant to the resources industry.

Year 3

By third year, students advance into specialised chemical engineering and extractive metallurgy topics. Units such as Heat and Mass Transfer, Reaction Engineering, and Mineral Processing Fundamentals develop skills in process design, separation techniques, and industrial-scale metal extraction.

Year 4

Fourth year emphasises advanced process engineering, metallurgy systems, and industrial design. Students complete units such as Process Systems Engineering, Extractive Metallurgy Design, and advanced engineering electives focused on resource recovery, sustainability, and plant optimisation.

Year 5

In the final year, students undertake a major capstone design or research project integrating chemical engineering and extractive metallurgy. This honours-level experience focuses on solving real industrial challenges in mining, mineral processing, metal production, and sustainable resource engineering.

Focus Areas

Chemical process engineering, extractive metallurgy, mineral processing, thermodynamics, reaction engineering, materials processing, resource engineering, separation processes, sustainability, industrial systems

Learning Outcomes

Develop advanced chemical engineering and metallurgy knowledge, design and optimise mineral processing systems, apply thermodynamic and transport principles, solve complex industrial extraction challenges, improve resource efficiency and sustainability, and integrate engineering solutions for large-scale industrial operations

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The chemical engineering component is accredited by Engineers Australia, ensuring international professional recognition and eligibility for professional engineer status. The program also aligns strongly with industry requirements in mining and metallurgical engineering sectors.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Curtin University is internationally recognised for its strong industry focus and leadership in resources engineering education. It consistently ranks in global systems such as the QS World University Rankings, particularly for engineering and mineral and mining-related disciplines, and is well known for producing graduates highly valued by the resources industry.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in Curtin University’s Bachelor of Chemical Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy (Double Degree) gain extensive hands-on experience by working across chemical engineering systems and real-world mineral processing environments. The program is strongly aligned with Western Australia’s global mining and resources sector, so learning is deeply practical, involving laboratory experimentation, pilot-scale processing, and engineering design activities that mirror actual industrial operations. Students study at Curtin’s Bentley Campus in Perth, where they develop technical skills using specialised engineering labs, process simulation tools, and industry-connected project work:

Chemical Engineering Laboratories (Bentley Campus): Practical training in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, reaction engineering, and heat and mass transfer using engineering-grade experimental equipment.
Mineral Processing and Metallurgy Laboratories: Hands-on experience with ore processing, separation techniques, and metallurgical analysis used in the mining and resources industry.
Process Simulation and Engineering Software: Use of industry tools such as MATLAB and process modelling systems to simulate chemical plants and mineral processing operations.
Extractive Metallurgy Design Projects: Applied projects focused on metal extraction, resource recovery, and optimisation of industrial-scale processing systems.
Chemical Engineering Capstone Design Project: Final-year industry-aligned project solving complex real-world challenges in chemical processing and metallurgical engineering.
Industry Internships and Vacation Work: Opportunities to gain real workplace experience with mining, energy, and mineral processing companies across Western Australia.
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL): Structured learning experiences that connect classroom theory with industrial practice in chemical and metallurgical engineering environments.
Curtin Resources and Engineering Research Facilities: Access to research labs focused on mineral processing, sustainable mining, and advanced materials engineering.
Advanced Engineering Computing Labs: Facilities for data analysis, process modelling, simulation, and engineering design calculations.
Industry Engagement and Field-Relevant Learning: Exposure to real mining and processing environments through guest lectures, site-related learning, and industry seminars.
Curtin Library and Technical Resources: Access to engineering databases, mining and metallurgy research publications, and technical standards supporting coursework and research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Curtin University’s Bachelor of Chemical Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy (Double Degree) are highly sought after in Australia’s world-leading resources sector, with strong career pathways in mining, mineral processing, energy production, and advanced materials engineering. The combination of chemical engineering and metallurgical expertise prepares graduates to work on large-scale industrial systems that transform raw materials into essential metals and industrial products. Common roles include Chemical Engineer, Metallurgical Engineer, Process Engineer, and Mineral Processing Engineer:

Curtin Careers and Employability Service: Students receive tailored career support including CV development, interview coaching, job search assistance, and access to graduate recruitment programs and employer networking events.
Industry-Based Learning Opportunities: The program supports vacation work, internships, and industry-linked experiences with mining and resource companies across Western Australia.
Strong Resources Industry Partnerships: Curtin has established connections with major companies in mining, mineral processing, energy, and materials industries, providing real-world project exposure and employment pathways.
Professional Accreditation Value: The chemical engineering component is accredited by Engineers Australia, ensuring international recognition and eligibility for professional engineer status under global agreements.
Resources Sector Career Pathways: Graduates are aligned with WA’s strong mining and minerals industry, one of the largest employers of engineering talent in Australia.
Graduate Employment Outcomes: Curtin engineering graduates are widely recognised for their job-ready skills and practical training, leading to strong employment outcomes in industrial engineering and resources sectors.
Median Salary: Chemical and metallurgical engineering graduates in Australia typically earn a median starting salary of approximately AUD $85,000–$105,000, with higher earnings in mining, oil and gas, and mineral processing industries.
Global Industry Opportunities: Graduates can pursue international careers in mining companies, metallurgical plants, consulting firms, and large-scale industrial operations across global resources markets.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this double degree, graduates may pursue advanced study such as a Master of Professional Engineering, Master of Mining Engineering, or specialised postgraduate qualifications in metallurgy, materials science, or process engineering. Students can also progress into a PhD in Chemical Engineering or Extractive Metallurgy, focusing on advanced mineral processing, sustainable mining technologies, resource recovery, or industrial process innovation.