Chemical Engineering UCL

Overview

The Chemical Engineering BEng at UCL is a three-year programme that provides students with a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, mathematics, and physical sciences. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare students to design and optimise processes used in industries such as energy, pharmaceuticals, materials, and manufacturing.

Why Chemical Engineering at UCL?

UCL's Chemical Engineering programme is renowned for its academic excellence and innovative approach to education. The university consistently ranks among the top institutions globally, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant research environment. UCL's strong partnerships with leading industries foster unique opportunities for collaboration, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern engineering landscape. The programme's multidisciplinary focus allows students to engage with diverse fields, enhancing their understanding of complex global issues.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

For the academic year 2026/27, the tuition fees are as follows:

• National students: £9,535 per year
• International students: £39,800 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The BEng in Chemical Engineering encompasses a robust curriculum designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge. The programme is structured as follows:

• Year 1: Chemical Engineering, Thermodynamics, Physical Chemistry, Transport Phenomena, Computational Modelling and Analysis, Engineering Challenges, Design and Professional Skills I, Mathematical Modelling and Analysis I.
• Year 2: Design and Professional Skills II, Engineering Experimentation, Process Heat Transfer, Separation Processes I, Particulate Systems and Separation Processes II, Chemical Reaction Engineering I, Process Design Principles, Mathematical Modelling and Analysis II.
• Year 3: Chemical Reaction Engineering II, Process Plant Design Project, Process Dynamics and Control, Transport Phenomena II, Advanced Safety and Loss Prevention.

Industry Demand

Chemical engineers are in high demand across various sectors, including energy, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. Their expertise is crucial in addressing global challenges, such as sustainable energy solutions and health improvements.

Guaranteed Work Experience

The programme encourages students to undertake a Year in Industry, providing invaluable experience and enhancing employability. This placement typically occurs between the second and third years, allowing students to apply their academic knowledge in a professional context.

Careers with Chemical Engineering

Graduates of UCL's Chemical Engineering programme enjoy strong career prospects, with 87.5% securing full-time employment or self-employment within six months of graduation. They find roles in diverse sectors, including accountancy, manufacturing, IT, engineering, and consultancy. Notable employers include Johnson Matthey, BP, Deloitte, ExxonMobil, and Deutsche Bank. Graduates are well-prepared for positions such as production engineers, process engineers, management consultants, data analysts, and software developers, reflecting the programme's strong focus on employability and industry relevance.