Refinery Design and Operation

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Would you like to impress future employers with your in-depth knowledge of refinery design and operation? Major employers know that the best way to increase the profitability of a refinery is to examine its design and operation and they are keen to employ people who have a deep conceptual understanding of advanced chemical process design for the petrochemicals industry. The course teaches you how clean and efficient processing operations not only help improve the environment but also help industry perform to its full potential.

* You examine a series of processing steps and how they interconnect to form a complete system which transforms raw materials into desired products with minimal cost and environmental harm.
* You design integrated crude oil distillation systems and efficient heat exchanger networks and utility systems and integrate refinery hydrogen systems.
* You learn how to build, solve and validate mathematical models for the simulation, optimisation and control of chemical processes and large refinery systems and use design and modelling software such as Hysys, ProII, Matlab and Aspenplus.

Who will benefit from the course?

The course is for recently graduated chemical engineers who wish to develop their understanding of chemical process design in the petrochemical industry and use their skills and knowledge to help future employers increase their profitability.

What are the benefits to students?

* Advanced training in the most recent principles and concepts of process design ensure you are up to date with the most progressive ideas in the field
* Regular feedback from senior businessmen and women from prestigious international companies mean that the course is considered to be of high quality and extremely relevant to industry
* The qualification you gain will be recognised all around the world and the excellent reputation of the course amongst employers mean that you will immediately enhance your career prospects
* Training in the use of process simulation software and other software tools means that you graduate with skills which are highly useful to employers
* The availability of e-learning material enables you to plan your time to study at your own pace - and you can choose between studying full-time at the University or part-time through distance learning
* You will gain many other skills to make you more employable such as report writing, data analysis and the ability to make presentations.
* There is the flexibility to choose whether you study for an MSc, Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate or even a single Unit as a professional training course.

Refinery Design and Operation at The University of Manchester offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the core principles and advanced techniques involved in the planning, design, and running of refinery processes. The programme is aimed at students seeking to develop a robust understanding of the chemical, mechanical, and process engineering aspects of oil and gas refineries, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. Throughout the course, students will examine the entire refinery lifecycle, from crude oil characterization and atmospheric distillation to complex catalytic processes, hydrotreating, and environmental management.

The curriculum encompasses key topics such as process simulation, process control, safety analysis, and energy efficiency, equipping students with the skills necessary to optimize refinery operations. Emphasis is placed on process integration and the principles of sustainable and environmentally responsible refinery practices. Students will also study the design of various processing units, the intricacies of hydrocarbon processing, and the significance of regulatory compliance within the industry. Practical modules involve case studies, laboratory experiments, and project work that simulate real-world challenges faced by refinery engineers.

Additionally, the programme includes modules on process safety management, project management, and the economic evaluation of refinery projects, preparing students for leadership roles within the industry. The programme benefits from access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and industry collaborations, enabling students to gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software and research tools. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to contribute effectively to refinery design teams, operations management, and consultancy roles in the energy sector. Upon completion, students will be prepared to address the technical, environmental, and economic challenges of modern refinery operations, supporting the transition towards cleaner and more efficient energy production.

Entry requirements typically include a strong academic background in subjects such as chemistry, chemical engineering, or related sciences, with a high proportion of coursework and grades in these areas. Applicants are often expected to have completed their secondary education with excellent results and may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL if English is not their first language. For undergraduate programmes, specific A-level or equivalent qualifications are required, commonly including Chemistry and Mathematics, with competitive grades. For postgraduate programmes, a relevant bachelor's degree with good honors, usually at least a 2:1 or equivalent, is essential. Some courses may also consider professional experience or prior industrial exposure as relevant or supplementary to academic qualifications. Additional selection criteria may include personal statements, references, and motivation for studying refinery design and operation, to assess candidates' interest and commitment to the field. The programme may also require applicants to attend interviews or provide evidence of technical skills pertinent to chemical and process engineering. In certain cases, pre-university preparatory courses or foundation programmes may be accepted if the applicant lacks specific required qualifications. The curriculum emphasizes core knowledge in process engineering, safety procedures, and environmental considerations, alongside practical skills mastered through laboratory work and industrial placements. Candidates are advised to review the specific entry requirements each year, as they might be subject to updates or changes by the admissions office. Overall, admission standards aim to select candidates with strong scientific aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and enthusiasm for the technical and operational aspects of refinery design and operation, preparing them for successful careers in the chemical engineering sector or related industries.

The University of Manchester offers various funding options for students enrolled in the Refinery Design and Operation program to support their academic and living expenses. Domestic students may be eligible for government-backed financial aid, including student loans and grants, designed to reduce the financial burden of higher education. The UK government provides maintenance loans that help cover living costs, with repayment occurring after graduation once a certain income threshold is met. Additionally, students can apply for scholarships and bursaries offered directly by the university based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria such as domicile or subject specialization. International students are encouraged to explore university scholarships, which may cover partial tuition fees or provide living stipends; these are competitive and require separate application processes. The university also collaborates with industrial partners and professional bodies that sometimes offer sponsorships or bursaries for students pursuing specialized degrees like Refinery Design and Operation, especially for those aiming for careers within the energy sector. Students are advised to consult the university’s dedicated financial aid office and the program’s official webpage for comprehensive and updated information on available funding, application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility requirements. Many students also consider external funding sources, including government scholarships, private foundations, and industry-sponsored programs, which can provide additional financial support. It is important for prospective and current students to carefully review all options early in their academic planning to maximize financial assistance opportunities. Overall, the university strives to make higher education accessible to talented students through a range of financial support programs, ensuring they can focus on their studies and career ambitions without undue financial strain.

Refinery Design and Operation at The University of Manchester is a specialized programme tailored for students aiming to develop comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field of petroleum refining. This degree offers an in-depth understanding of the core concepts involved in the design, operation, and optimization of refinery processes. Students will explore various aspects such as process engineering, thermodynamics, catalysis, fluid flow, and environmental considerations associated with refinery operations. The curriculum integrates theoretical coursework with practical laboratory work and industry-based projects, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges faced by the refining industry.

The programme is structured to provide a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles, followed by focused modules on refinery processes including crude pre-treatment, distillation, catalytic cracking, hydroprocessing, and product blending. Emphasis is also placed on safety protocols and environmental management, reflecting the industry's increasing focus on sustainable practices. Students will learn about process simulation software, enhancing their ability to design efficient and cost-effective refinery processes. The course also covers management aspects, such as project planning, operational efficiencies, and economic evaluation, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the sector.

The teaching staff comprises experts with significant industry experience, ensuring that students receive up-to-date knowledge and insights into current technological developments. The programme benefits from state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities at the university, supporting hands-on learning and research activities. Collaboration with the petroleum industry, including internships and guest lectures, enhances the practical relevance of the programme and helps students build professional networks.

Graduates of the Refinery Design and Operation programme will be well-equipped for careers in the oil and gas industry, refining companies, consultancy firms, or for further study in related research fields. The programme aims to develop highly competent engineers capable of innovating and improving refinery processes, contributing to more sustainable and economical operations while meeting global energy demands. With the increasing importance of environmentally friendly practices and technological advancements, this degree positions graduates at the forefront of the petroleum refining sector, ready to tackle future challenges with technical expertise and innovative problem-solving skills.