MSc Advanced Chemical Engineering (1 year)

Whether you are looking to build on your undergraduate studies or advance your career, the MSc Advanced Chemical Engineering degree will help you achieve your ambitions.

In compulsory modules you’ll cover essential areas of chemical engineering, including the computer systems and algorithms that control chemical engineering processes, and safety and risk management. You’ll also learn about the design and operation of reactors for low-carbon and energy conversion technologies. 

You can also choose from a range of optional modules to deepen your knowledge in areas that interest you. You could focus on a specific theme, such as energy, waste management or high-value chemicals, or broaden your studies by taking options on multiple topics. Optional modules also give you the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge fields such as lab-on-a-chip technologies and micro and meso-scale reactors. Several  of our optional modules include hands-on practical work, such as

• designing and 3D printing a micro-reactor
• mathematically modelling microfluidic systems and devices
• applying algorithms to control a real application
• designing a carbon capture reactor

Group design project

You'll undertake a group design project, which involves taking on the role of consultant and, as part of a team, working on a brief which is relevant to real-world industry. It’s an opportunity to address a real-world problem – for example, you could be asked to design a biodigestor unit for a specific location, solve a wastewater processing problem or design a new reactor for a fine chemical preparation. You’ll develop both subject-specific and professional skills, enhancing your employability.

In-depth research project

You’ll conduct a substantial piece of independent research for your MSc research project. As well as gaining in-depth knowledge of an aspect of chemical engineering that interests you, you’ll develop your research, problem solving and project management skills. The topics on offer are linked to our academics’ own research, so you’ll be exposed to the latest advances in the field. It’s also possible to do your research project in industry; our placement team can help you to look for a suitable placement. 

Industry-informed learning

We use our industry connections to give you insights into industry challenges and ensure you gain the skills employers are looking for. Partner companies, such as ExxonMobil, set group projects for our students, and you’ll hear from industry guest speakers in many of your modules. In addition, we organise site visits to a biodigestor unit, refinery plant and wastewater plant. These visits help you put your learning into context and give you the chance to talk to chemical engineers about current issues in their sector.

Outstanding facilities

Southampton’s chemistry and engineering facilities are among the best in the UK, giving you access to state-of-the-art equipment and learning spaces.

You’ll be able to work in our chemistry laboratories which have been completely refurbished as part of a £12m chemistry building renovation.

In addition, you’ll have access to our engineering facilities which consist of over 10,000m² of specialist workshops, laboratories and testing facilities, based on our Highfield and our £172m Boldrewood Innovation Campus. You’ll work in facilities such as:

• Purpose-built student laboratories and design studios which you will be able to use during your group design project
• The Engineering Design and Manufacturing Centre for advanced manufacturing work which includes 3D printers, CNC equipment, CAD/CAM software and a training workshop
• The μ-VIS X-Ray Imaging Centre, our dedicated centre for computed tomography which includes one of the largest and highest energy CT systems in the UK. The facilities are used to produce high resolution 3D images of the internal structures of objects.

Depending on your MSc project topic, you could also spend time conducting research in our £120m cleanroom complex.

Research expertise

As you would expect from a Russell Group university, Southampton has a proven track record for high-quality research. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework our engineering research was ranked first in the UK for general engineering research power, and 94 per cent of our chemistry research portfolio was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent.

You’ll learn from the academics who are doing this exceptional work. They are contributing to advances in areas such as next-generation batteries and fuel cells, materials discovery, wastewater engineering, microfluidics and flow, and novel molecule synthesis. Through teaching and research project supervision, they’ll share their expertise and expose you to the latest ideas and technological developments.

Supporting your studies

You’ll join a welcoming and friendly postgraduate community at Southampton. The course is designed to help you get to know your classmates straight away, and you’ll be able to develop a network of friends and contacts from around the world during your time here. Your personal academic tutor and MSc project supervisor will provide the academic support you need to achieve your best. You’ll also have access to a range of University student support services should you need them, including learning skills and English language support.

View the programme specification for this course for 2019/20 entrants

View the programme specification for this course for 2020/21 entrants

To Apply

You can apply through the University of Southampton's online postgraduate application system. For more background and detailed information, visit how to apply web page.

Programme Structure

This is a full-time programme. You’ll complete a Group Design project and take six taught modules across semesters one and two, three of which you can choose from a range of optional modules. You’ll then spend the final four months of the course working on your MSc research project.

Key Facts

94 per cent of our chemistry research portfolio was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2014)

We are first in the UK for general engineering research power (REF 2014)

Chemical Engineering Laboratory

We are creating a bespoke new laboratory for Chemical Engineering as part of a multi-million pound refurbishment of our Chemistry labs

Find out more