Chemical Engineering

Course overview

Ranked 3rd in the UK for Chemical Engineering (Guardian University Guide 2024), this accredited world-class degree will prepare you for a diverse career in an in-demand sector.

Vital to modern society, developing solutions to our planet's most pressing challenges such as sustainability and clean energy - chemical engineers change the world. This unique course combines modules in fundamental chemical engineering with those in chemistry, physical chemistry and mathematics, allowing you to gain the in-depth knowledge needed to ensure the safe and profitable production of the chemicals and materials that make the world go round. At the same time, you will be learning a robust selection of practical skills, such as problem-solving, engineering-relevant IT and engineering design skills.

"Aston University allowed me to push myself academically while pursing an industry-accredited degree and also encouraged me to gain practical experience in the process through a placement year. Both of these attributes have allowed me to start my career with a strong footing. I am currently a graduate engineer at Rolls-Royce, an opportunity given to me after completing a placement year in the company."

Michelle Watiki

BEng Chemical Engineering with Placement Year

Graduate Engineer, Rolls-Royce

Why Chemical Engineering at Aston University?

Ranked 2nd in the UK for teaching quality

Chemical Engineering, Sunday Times University Guide, 2023

Accredited degree

Accredited by IChemE

Ranked 3rd in the UK overall

Chemical Engineering, Guardian University Guide, 2025

Ranked 24th in the world

Aston University is ranked 24th in the world for reducing inequalities

Ranked 2nd in the UK for value added

Chemical Engineering, Guardian University Guide, 2025

Top 10% in the world

Aston University placed in the top 10% of all 5,663 institutions evaluated

Chemical Engineering at Aston University

Chemical Engineering Alumni, talks about why he chose to study at Aston University

Careers and Placements

Whatever your Aston University journey, we're here to help. Discover what's possible with Careers and Placements.

Course description

BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering

The BEng Chemical Engineering degree at Aston University is based on an advanced curriculum that includes theoretical knowledge, practical experiences, world-class facilities, and strong industry connections. The course will empower you to excel in your academic journey and prepare you for a successful and impactful career in chemical engineering.

What we will provide
First-class teaching, in the UK's second-largest city, delivered by academics and researchers, who will bring the subject to life. Use of world-class facilities for practical labs and computer sessions, with access to simulation packages relevant in chemical engineering.

What you will provide
In order to thrive in our chemical engineering degree, we are looking for students who are self-motivated, have a willingness to learn and the curiosity to problem solve. It is important to have a critical, reflective nature and show resilience, as in chemical engineering, every experiment, calculation, failure, and success is an experience and lesson for the future. During studies and in your career, you will be constantly analysing and improving your approach. It's all about learning from your experiences and using that insight to boost your professional development.

What skills we teach
Our BEng Chemical Engineering programme prides itself on offering a cutting-edge curriculum that reflects the latest advancements in chemical engineering. You will develop fundamental knowledge in engineering, hands-on practical lab skills, hardware skills which will be put to the test by creating a rig, and IT and software skills which will be used for process simulation and design. Our friendly approach to learning enables students to also develop more holistic skills including professional etiquette, teamwork, and the ability to communicate effectively.

Placement year
A placement year is a fantastic opportunity and highly encouraged with Aston University’s Chemical Engineering course. Our award-winning careers and placement team and strong industry ties will provide you with exciting placement opportunities. Previous students have gained experience with leading companies, such as Rolls Royce, AirBus and institutes such as CERN.

Career prospects
Our chemical engineering graduates have a strong track record in securing graduate roles, reflecting the varied range of skills they acquire during their degree. Recent examples of graduate destinations for chemical engineering students include Procter and Gamble, BP, ExxonMobil, Unilever, the National Grid, Atkins, British Sugar, Smurfit Kappa, BAE Systems, Heineken and HSBC.

How you will learn

Chemical Engineering at Aston University has an outstanding reputation, both for high-quality teaching and for research. We are proud to have received positive feedback from NSS 2023. 96% of our students felt that the teaching staff were good at explaining things, and 92% found the course to be intellectually stimulating.

Your learning will take place in our single-site campus in the heart of Birmingham. Along with traditional lectures and seminars, you will have team and individual project work, plant visits, and laboratory practical work. Your practical training will include working in chemical and process laboratories and being part of exciting projects, such as design, build and, after testing, putting the constructed rig into operation.

Here at Aston University, we are passionate about supporting our students. You will have a personal tutor throughout your studies to provide support and guidance. The Learning Development Centre is there to provide maths support, academic writing development, advice, and strategies for managing your studies. You will also have the opportunity to get involved in peer-assisted-learning (PAL) sessions, learning from your peers who have been through the course content before you.

Extracurricular activities:

You can join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals in our Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies (CEB) Society.
Let your creativity run wild in our Design Challenge, whilst you tackle real-world engineering problems and propose innovative solutions.
Join our Formula Student team where you will design, build, and race your very own formula-style car.

From BEng Chemical Engineering to Procter and Gamble

BEng Chemical Engineering student Georgina talks about her placement at Procter and Gamble and her future plans

Read about Georgina's journey

Facilities

As part of our BEng Chemical Engineering degree, you will have access to our high-quality laboratories. There, you will learn the skills to design and build a process rig, work safely and effectively in a chemical laboratory and, in process labs, operate different units for reaction, separation, fluid flow and heat exchange; just like in a real process plant!

Alongside these practical skills, you will utilise advanced software packages to create drawings for industrial scale processes and to simulate the operation of chemical and biochemical plants.

Finally, our students have the unique chance to experience how a pilot- scale equipment looks and operates, with visits to our on-site pilot scale plant.

coursepage_chemistry_facilities_teaching

coursepage_chemistry_facilities_experiment

Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Facilities Tour

Course Objectives

Provides you with the opportunities to realise your academic potential through relevant and planned learning experiences.
Provides you with a thorough grounding in the basic principles of chemical engineering.
Provides you with a balanced structured curriculum, combining teaching in theoretical and knowledge-based principles with practical skills training.
Provides up-to-date and professionally accredited education satisfying the institutional requirements of the Institution of Chemical Engineers, allowing you a straightforward way to apply for Chartered engineers.
Produces graduate engineers with the qualities and skills that are in demand by employers and who are able to make a valuable contribution to society in general.
Offers you the opportunity to obtain relevant industrial experience by providing the option of a sandwich placement year.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Introductory Mathematics for Engineering, Digital, and Physical Sciences	15
Introductory Programming for Engineering and Physical Sciences	15
Introduction to Transfer Processes	15
Introduction to Chemical and Biochemical Engineering	15
Chemistry for Engineers	15
Applied Physical Chemistry with Thermodynamics	15
Power Skills	15
Interdisciplinary Design Project	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge of basic mathematics, science and technology underpinning principles of engineering and sustainability, as well as basic design and construction techniques
Apply knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science, programming, and engineering principles to solve engineering problems
Demonstrate knowledge in chemistry, physical chemistry and thermodynamics to support basic chemical engineering calculations and product/process design
Demonstrate knowledge in the general principles of chemical and biochemical engineering
Demonstrate basic practical techniques relevant to experimental work and the knowledge to analyse the results obtained in and engineering context
Create a solution as part of (interdisciplinary) teams to a design problem subject to identified constraints, evaluate the design and make improvements, using appropriate design tools and techniques
Use information from a variety of sources in the solution of an engineering problem
Evaluate and interpret data using industry-standard methods and communicate information effectively to ensure data-driven approaches to decision-making in solving complex problems
Use sustainable development strategies that reflect a deep understanding of the Circular Economy, Net-Zero strategies, Design and Systems Thinking, and Global Social Responsibility and lead to solutions that are ethically sound and globally relevant
Employ integrated problem-solving skills to analyse challenging an multifaceted problems considering professional, social, and ethical contexts.

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Advanced Mathematical Modelling	15
Process Design	15
Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer	15
Mass Transfer	15
Separation Processes	15
Reaction Engineering	15
Process Simulation and Control	15
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and critical understanding of well-established theories, concept and principles of chemical engineering, and higher-level design and construction techniques applicable to Chemical Engineering
Apply knowledge in chemical engineering principles for the calculation, design, simulation and optimisation of industrial processes and unit operations
Apply principles of chemical engineering, basic business and management principles, and analytical skills for design, control and evaluation of chemical and biochemical processes
Use numerical methods, data analysis and programming platforms for modelling and analysing demanding engineering problems
Apply specific IT skills and chemical engineering digital tools for analysing and resolving chemical engineering problems
Demonstrate advanced laboratory techniques relevant to experimental work and to analyse and disseminate the results of chemical engineering experiments using a different range of communication techniques for a variety of audiences.

Placement year modules

If you opt for an integrated placement year, you will spend your third year on placement. You will be fully supported throughout the process by our award-winning Careers and Placements team.

Placement Year

Module Title	Credits
Integrated Placement Year	120

Placement year outcomes

On successful completion of the placement year, you will be able to:

Develop an understanding of business and the relevant commercial environment and/or intercultural study and their role
within it
Gain knowledge of key aspects of good practice relevant to industry and/or intercultural study context
Develop new knowledge and understanding appropriate to the industrial, business, study or research sector related to degree programme
Communicate effectively in a variety of ways in a professional and
industrial environment and/or in an intercultural study context.

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Professional Engineering Practice	15
Advanced Reaction Engineering	15
Advanced Separation Processes	15
Advanced Process Control and Safety	15
Process Economics and Sustainability	15
Chemical Engineering Major Design Project	30
Total	105

You will choose 15 credits from the following optional modules*

Module Title	Credits
Biotechnology and Bioprocessing	15
Surfaces, Nanomaterials and Catalysis	15
Renewable Technologies	15

*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.

Final Year Outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Analyse systematically the knowledge base and its interrelationships within the subject of Chemical engineering, advanced design and construction techniques in a team and individually
Apply knowledge of professional engineering practices and ethics for design, delivery, evaluation and innovation of safe and sustainable processes
Analyse process control strategies and advanced digital methods and their applications in process industry
Demonstrate knowledge of advanced design principles in chemical and biochemical processing to chemical and physical unit operations
Deploy key techniques of identifying and controlling process hazards and manage risk reduction/mitigation during all stages of a process
Apply knowledge in specialised sectors related to chemical and biochemical processing
Inspect a planned engineering activity and identify risk issues, including health & safety, environmental and commercial risk
Analyse their knowledge, skills and competencies to formulate a personal development plan in line with their chosen engineering career
Plan, conduct, evaluate and establish a major individual programme of work initiated from a technical brief

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Entry requirements

A Levels
BBC including Maths and one other STEM (a) subjects
BCC including Maths and one other STEM (a) subjects (with an EPQ or Core Maths* at grade B)
CCC including Maths and one other STEM (a) subjects (contextual offer)

List of STEM (a) subjects: Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, Design Technology, Chemistry, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Biology and Electronics.

*List of core maths qualifications we accept: AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies, City & Guilds Certificate in Using and Applying Mathematics, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics for Everyday Life, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Problem Solving, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Reasoning, Pearson Edexcel Certificate in Mathematics in Context, WJEC Eduqas Certificate in Mathematics for Work and Life and Level 3 Core Math.

Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (Engineering): DDM including the following units at Distinction (QCF): Mathematics for Engineering Technicians and Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, OR (RQF): Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems and Further Engineering Mathematics.
Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma (Any Subject): DDM and A Level Maths at minimum grade B.
Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering: Distinction plus A-Level Chemistry and Mathematics at Grade B
Foundation or 90 credits Diploma (any subject): DM, plus 2 A-levels in Chemistry and Mathematics at minimum grade B.
National Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma (any subject): M, plus 2 A-level Chemistry and Mathematics at minimum Grade B
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted.

31 points overall with 5, 5, 5 in Higher Level subjects including Chemistry and Maths at Grade 5.

We accept the QAA-recognised Access Diploma which must consist of at least 30 Distinctions and 15 Merits at level 3 including at least 15 credits at Level 3 in Mathematics and at least 15 credits at Level 3 in Chemistry.

Please note that we do not accept the English and Maths components within the Access qualification and you must meet the GCSE entry requirement.

T Levels are not currently accepted as an entry requirement for this course.

You may be able to access this course via our foundation programme route.

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement, you will also need to have achieved:

Maths Grade C/4 and English Grade C/4

Non-standard qualifications

Degree

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent Level 3) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 2 entry: Please note that second-year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space in that year of the programme.
Typically, applicants for second-year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have successfully passed (or be expected to pass) your first year with 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university with very similar module content.

The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference from your current institution.

Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£9,250
During placement year:	£1,250

International students
(2025/26)

Annual tuition fees:	£21,500
During placement year:	£2,500

For Sandwich courses the placement fee is £1250 for Home/UK students and £2,500 for International students. For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies. For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

Your learning process will be monitored continuously by a variety of assessments, which include a combination of written examinations or class tests, online class tests, coursework, design and research project reports, technical reports and oral presentations.

We will always provide you with timely feedback to help you achieve the best that you can, while you are with us.

Career prospects

Chemical engineering opens the door to an exciting range of career opportunities. In addition to the traditional oil and chemical-based companies, you will be well equipped to work in a wide range of other industrial sectors - pharmaceutical, water treatment and waste management, food & beverage, energy industries and IT, but also in other vital society areas such as government, consultancy, transport or environment.

Our chemical engineering graduates have a strong track record in securing graduate roles, reflecting the varied range of skills they acquire during their degree. Recent graduates have moved on to roles including Material and Process Graduate, Technical Support Engineer, Business Development Representative, Graduate Engineer, Research Assistant, Business Strategy Graduate, Build Assurance Engineer and Data Analyst. They are working for high-profile companies and organisations such as Virgin, Amazon, Procter and Gamble, BP, ExxonMobil, Unilever, the National Grid, Atkins, Weetabix, Smurfit Kappa, BAE Systems, Heineken and HSBC.

Therefore, choosing to study Chemical engineering at Aston, will put you at the heart of a creative and career-focused culture, with a vibrant teaching team, ready to start your life-changing career.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Does accreditation matter?

Yes. Accredited engineering degrees offer students, their parents and advisors, and employers a mark of assurance that the degree programme meets the standards expected by the engineering profession. Accredited degrees also give confidence that the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills for registration with a professional engineering institution have been met.

Our BEng is accredited by our professional engineering body, the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE). Accreditation means that the course meets the criteria set out by IChemE, which puts you a step forward on the path to acquiring Chartered Chemical Engineer status.

How will a placement year benefit me?

Our excellent links with the chemical industry allow you to test and expand your knowledge, skills and understanding through a paid placement. Placements provide integrated industrial and professional training, often in a position of responsibility, in areas such as the design, development, commissioning or operation of a chemical plant.

We will help you arrange your placement and provide opportunities for you to visit companies, undertake commercial project work and compete for sponsorships and prizes.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham