Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering at University College London offers a comprehensive and innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for a successful career in the chemical and process industries. The program combines fundamental principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for designing, optimizing, and operating chemical processes. Throughout the course, students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, industrial placements, and project work, enabling them to apply their learning to real-world challenges. The degree emphasizes sustainable and environmentally responsible engineering solutions, reflecting the global need for greener technologies. Students are encouraged to develop problem-solving skills, teamwork abilities, and an entrepreneurial mindset to innovate within the sector. The program is delivered by leading academics and industry experts, providing students with cutting-edge knowledge and insights into current technological developments. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, students can engage in research and development activities, fostering innovation and discovery. The university’s strong links with industry partners offer excellent networking and employment opportunities post-graduation. The Chemical Engineering program at UCL is suitable for students passionate about science, engineering, and making a positive impact on society through technological advancements. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in sectors such as energy, pharmaceuticals, food production, materials, and environmental management. The program also provides a solid foundation for further study, including postgraduate research and professional engineering accreditation. Overall, UCL’s Chemical Engineering program aims to develop talented, responsible engineers capable of addressing complex global challenges with innovative and sustainable solutions.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

The two Chemical Engineering programmes at UCL, BEng and MEng, follow a common curriculum for the first two years and a final decision between the different routes can be delayed until the end of the second year when you will have greater experience on which to base your choice. Applicants do not need to apply for more than one programme; all applicants to all programmes are treated equally. Suitably qualified BEng candidates can change to MEng at the end of year two.

In year three you will undertake a compulsory design project, carried out in small teams. Each team designs a complete process plant, including detailed unit design (of, for example, a reactor or a distillation or absorption column), environmental impact, safety and risk assessment, process control and costing.

If you choose the BEng degree, you will complete your studies at the end of the third year. Please note that you will need to complete a period of further training before being granted Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
We are committed to, and encourage you to take, a formal industrial training (sandwich) year during your degree programme. This is usually during the year before your final study year, and provides invaluable experience.

This degree is part of the Integrated Engineering Programme (IEP), a teaching framework that engages students in specialist and interdisciplinary activities designed to create well-rounded graduates with a strong grasp of the fundamentals of their discipline and a broad understanding of the complexity and context of engineering problems. Students register for a core discipline, but also engage in activities that span departments so the development of fundamental technical knowledge takes place alongside specialist and interdisciplinary research-based projects and professional skills. This creates degrees encouraging professional development, with an emphasis on design and challenging students to apply knowledge to complex problems.

A levels

Grades

A*AA-AAA

Subjects

Mathematics and Chemistry required. Another science preferred as third subject, but not essential.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

38-39

Subjects

A total of 18-19 points in three higher level subjects to include Mathematics and Chemistry, with no score lower than 5. Another science at higher level preferred, but not essential.

The English language level for this programme is: Standard

Tuition fees for the BEng Chemical Engineering program at University College London vary depending on the student’s domicile and the year of entry. For UK students, the undergraduate tuition fee is typically around £9,250 per year, consistent with the UK government’s cap on undergraduate fees. For international students, the fees are higher, approximately £29,300 per year. These fees cover academic instruction, access to university facilities, laboratory resources, and various student support services. Financial aid options are available to support students in funding their studies. UCL offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and grants for both UK and international students, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. For example, there are merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students, as well as bursaries for students from specific regions or with particular financial circumstances.

In addition to scholarships, students can explore government student loan schemes. UK students are eligible for loans to cover tuition fees and maintenance costs, which they repay after graduation once they reach a certain income threshold. International students may have access to scholarships and other funding opportunities, but often need to secure external funding sources or sponsor support. UCL also offers financial guidance and planning services to help students manage their education costs effectively.

Apart from tuition fees, students should also consider living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, textbooks, and personal expenses. Estimated annual living costs in London are around £15,000 to £20,000, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices. Students are advised to budget accordingly and apply for additional funding or part-time work opportunities permitted under their student visas.

The university encourages proactive financial planning and provides detailed information about costs and funding opportunities on its official website. Students are recommended to start exploring funding options early and speak with UCL’s financial aid office for personalized advice. The financial feasibility of the program is supported by the availability of various funding streams, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their studies in Chemical Engineering at UCL without undue financial hardship.

Chemical Engineering at University College London offers students a comprehensive education that combines principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering to develop innovative solutions for processing and manufacturing chemicals, materials, and energy. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in industry, research, and academia. Students benefit from a curriculum that covers core topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, reaction engineering, process design, and safety management.

UCL's Department of Chemical Engineering has state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in experimental techniques and process simulation. Throughout the program, students undertake projects, internships, and group work that foster teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills. The program is designed to be rigorous, with a strong focus on sustainability and innovative engineering solutions to address global challenges such as climate change, energy demand, and resource scarcity.

The degree offers pathways for specializations including environmental engineering, biochemical engineering, and sustainable processes. Students are encouraged to participate in industrial placements and collaborative projects with industry partners, facilitating practical understanding and career readiness. The program often includes opportunities for study abroad or exchange programs, broadening international perspectives.

Graduates of UCL’s Chemical Engineering program are well-equipped to pursue careers in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, chemicals, food production, and environmental consultancy. Many alumni also go on to advanced research degrees or entrepreneurship. The university’s vibrant academic community and its global network provide ongoing support and opportunities for professional development. Overall, the program aims to produce versatile engineers capable of contributing innovative solutions to evolving technological and societal needs.