Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering at Abo Akademi University is a comprehensive and innovative programme designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in the chemical industry, research, and development. The curriculum combines fundamental principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering to provide students with a robust understanding of chemical processes and their applications. Students will explore various aspects of chemical process design, optimization, and control, gaining practical skills through laboratory work, projects, and internships. The programme emphasizes sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, equipping graduates with the knowledge to address modern challenges such as energy efficiency, waste minimization, and resource sustainability. The degree fosters critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills, essential for careers in industrial manufacturing, process engineering, and R&D. Through collaboration with industry partners and participation in cutting-edge research, students will stay abreast of technological advancements and industry trends. The programme is designed to be flexible and multidisciplinary, allowing students to tailor their studies according to personal interests and career goals. Graduates of the Chemical Engineering programme at Abo Akademi University will be well-equipped to pursue further academic research or enter a variety of professional roles within the chemical, pharmaceutical, bioengineering, and environmental sectors. The university provides excellent facilities, expert faculty, and a supportive learning environment to ensure students' success in their educational and professional journeys. This programme prepares students not only with technical expertise but also with the ethical and social awareness necessary to develop sustainable and responsible solutions for society.

Specializing in one of three main subjects (Process Systems Engineering, Process Chemistry or Natural Materials Technology), graduates of this programme can look forward to becoming an integral part of the growth and diversification of invaluable sectors – some of which are now essential for human well-being. Students will gain top-level expertise recognized on both a national and international level, allowing them to confidently and effectively contribute to the research, development and everyday running of cutting-edge processes.

This master’s degree programme consists of 12 months of courses and six months of thesis work with a three-month summer break between the first and second academic year. Upon successful completion of the programme, students will be awarded a Master of Science Degree in Technology.

You are an eligible applicant for Master’s-level studies if

• you have a nationally recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution of higher education,
• you meet the language requirements
• your degree is in a relevant field for the Master’s degree programme that you’re applying to

The programme is designed for students with a Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a corresponding degree. Eligible applicants are selected on the basis of how well the bachelor’s degree corresponds to the programme and on the study merits of the student. Applicants to the Master’s degree programmes taught in English must always prove their knowledge of the English language and fulfill the general academic requirement

There is no entrance examination. Admission is granted on the basis of the application. The applicants are selected based on the following criteria:

• Compatibility on background studies.
• Previous academic success and study history.
• Practical engineering experience.
• Motivation stated in the application
• Other merits

You can prove your level of language proficiency in English by submitting one of the following English-language test scores to your application:

• IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System): Scores in the Academic test with an average of 6.5, with no individual scores below 5.5. Even if you have the minimum score required in the different sections, you will not be eligible if the required total score is not achieved. Note that the IELTS General Test score is not accepted.
  You can attach a copy of the test report form to your application. The test report form must be verifiable. The results are valid for two years. 
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Total scores of at least 575 points in the paper-based test (PBT), or 90 in the Internet-based test (iBT). The Test of Written English (TWE) is required for those taking the paper-based TOEFL test.
  In addition to this it is recommended that applicants from China and East Asia, unless they take the iBT test, take the TSE (Test of Spoken English) if they have not studied in one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand or USA. The required score in the TSE is 45.
  The TOEFL reporting code for Åbo Akademi University is 9880. The results are valid for two years. 
• PTE Academic (Pearson’s test of English): Total score of at least 62 points. Once you receive your test score send it to Åbo Akademi University from your PTE account. Choose Finland as the “Country” and  Åbo as the “City”, then select the university you want to send your results to and confirm your order. After this, ÅAU should have access to your test results within 48 hours. Be advised that online language test results will only be accepted from the test organiser. The results are valid for two years.

Fee-paying students can apply for a scholarship to cover a part or the whole tuition fee.

There are three scholarship categories:

1. Full Scholarship, covering the tuition fee and includes a annual scholarship to cover the student’s living expenses (6 720 €), awarded for 2 years (second year conditional)
2. Tuition Fee Scholarship, covering 100 % of the tuition fee, awarded for 2 years (second year conditional)
3. Tuition Fee Scholarship, covering 50 % of the tuition fee, awarded for 2 years (second year conditional)

The decision to grant a scholarship is based on

• the academic performance of the student in his/her previous studies,
• how well the applicant meets the programme requirements
• the answers the applicants have given in the application form

When applying to Åbo Akademi University, applicants can indicate on the application form their wish to apply for a scholarship. In the application form the applicants are asked to answer a set of questions related to motivation and future goals. The answers to the questions will be assessed by the scholarship committee who makes the decision on granting the scholarships. In the assessment the following is evaluated: communicative skills, academic goals and general interest in the field.

The decision on the granted scholarship is given to the applicants together with the admission letter. In order to accept the scholarship the applicant must have accepted the study entitlement offered (binding acceptance).

The scholarships are awarded for two years. However, the second year is conditional depending on the progress of the studies. In order to qualify for the scholarship in the second year, a scholarship holder must earn at least 55 credits during the first academic year (the progress of the studies is checked in the end of May).

In addition to the scholarships listed above there will also be a chance to apply for a scholarship for the second year. This opportunity is open for all those students who have paid their fees during the first year or who have received a tuition fee scholarship covering 50% of the tuition fee in the first year. The requirement to receive this scholarship is excellent study records (GPA over 4), 55 earned credits during the first academic year and a good motivation to continue the studies.

The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Chemical Engineering at Abo Akademi University offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and applications of chemical sciences and engineering. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for diverse careers in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, environmental protection, food production, and materials development. The curriculum combines fundamental courses in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering sciences with specialized modules in chemical process engineering, reaction engineering, process design, and safety management. Students gain practical skills through laboratory work, project-based learning, and internships, enabling them to solve real-world problems and develop innovative solutions. The programme emphasizes sustainable development and environmentally friendly processes, encouraging students to consider ecological impacts in their future work. Students also have opportunities to participate in research projects and collaborate with industry partners, providing valuable industry insights and enhancing employability. The University’s teaching staff includes experienced researchers and practitioners who bring practical knowledge and latest developments in the field into the classroom. The programme is structured to facilitate academic mobility, with possibilities for exchange studies at partner universities across Europe and beyond. Graduates of the programme obtain a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degree, which can serve as a foundation for further studies at Master's level or directly entering the workforce. The language of instruction is primarily English, making the programme accessible to international students. The programme’s emphasis on interdisciplinary knowledge, practical skills, and sustainable practices aims to equip graduates with the capabilities needed to meet the global challenges related to chemical engineering and industrial processes.