Chemical Engineering

Overview

Chemical Engineering at Cambridge

Our course concentrates on the scientific principles that underpin modern chemical and biochemical engineering. The aim is to produce graduates that meet the needs of today's process industries by providing technical competence, training in transferable skills, and a thorough understanding of the subject. The underlying theory is complemented by a series of lectures and projects that teach process design and chemical product design.

We have strong links with industry. The course is supported by a consortium of 10 industrial companies which provide input on content and assist with teaching. These links also mean that there are opportunities for vacation placements with some of the world's top companies.

Teaching and facilities

Our Department enjoys a reputation for excellence in its teaching and research, regularly topping national league tables. The Department also has excellent facilities, including an extensive network of computers equipped with modern applications used by practising engineers.

Qualifications and accreditation

It's possible to graduate with a BA degree after three years. However, virtually all students stay for the fourth year leading to the BA and MEng degrees progression to the fourth year is dependent on satisfactory performance). The four-year course is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers, meaning that after graduation you can apply for Chartered Engineer status once you have four years of relevant experience without taking further exams.

After Cambridge

Within chemical engineering there are many well-paid career opportunities. You might work as a field engineer, be part of a research team, or become a senior manager within industry. Chemical engineers can also easily secure jobs outside the discipline because of their broad range of skills. About 50 per cent of our graduates go into the chemical, process and food industries; 20 per cent go into finance and management; and 15 per cent go into further education and research.