Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering applies the principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to the design, operation, and optimisation of processes that transform raw materials into useful products. It underpins the manufacture of everything from pharmaceuticals and food to fuels, plastics, and advanced materials. Chemical engineers do not simply understand chemistry at a molecular level; they scale that understanding up to industrial processes, managing heat transfer, fluid flow, reaction kinetics, and separation operations across systems of considerable complexity.

The discipline is central to the energy transition, to the development of sustainable manufacturing processes, and to the production of the medicines and materials that modern life depends on.

At Brunel University London you will study this three-year full-time BEng, which has been developed to equip you with a broad range of knowledge and skills to meet the needs of the chemical and biochemical industry. The programme covers the core engineering sciences alongside specialist chemical engineering topics, and you will apply theoretical learning through laboratory work and design projects that reflect real industrial challenges. A foundation year is available for those who need to consolidate their scientific and mathematical preparation before entering the main degree.

You will develop skills in process design and simulation, process safety, and the quantitative analysis needed to evaluate and optimise complex systems.

Chemical engineering graduates are among the most employable of all engineering disciplines. You will be equipped for roles in the process industries, including oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, food and drink, water treatment, and energy. Graduate positions include process engineer, design engineer, project engineer, and production manager.

The problem-solving and analytical skills you develop are also valued in sectors such as management consultancy, finance, and technology. For those wishing to develop their expertise further, postgraduate study offers routes into research, specialist masters programmes, and chartered engineer status through professional bodies.