This chemical engineering degree focuses on sustainability. On completion, you’ll have the skills to help the world transition to a more sustainable future. Demand is high for chemical engineering graduates. You’ll have excellent job prospects in sectors such as food, energy, pharmaceuticals and biochemicals.
Chemical engineering is a multi-disciplinary branch of engineering, focused on using chemicals and materials to design sustainable processes and giving them practical applications in the real world. This course focuses particularly on employability, sustainability and design.
The skills you’ll gain include:
On this Chemical Engineering BEng degree you’ll be able to:
You’ll work in our brand new, bespoke chemical engineering laboratories, which are part of our £12m chemistry building renovation. You’ll also have access to our engineering facilities, which consist of over 10,000m² of specialist workshops, laboratories and testing services.
This is a new course. The course is currently undergoing the accreditation process for the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE).
Enhance your employability by taking this course with a paid industrial placement year.
Apply using:
You'll spend this extra year at an engineering firm, applying the skills and knowledge you've learned so far.
The fee is 20% of the standard annual tuition fee.
If you have not studied the required Science subjects for this course, you may be eligible to apply for and enter through our Science Foundation Year.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
This course is based at Highfield and Boldrewood.
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
AAA including chemistry and mathematics
General Studies, Critical Thinking and use of mathematics are excluded for entry. A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Applicants with A-level chemistry who have not studied A-level mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year . Applicants with A-level mathematics who have not studied A-level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year .
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAB including chemistry (minimum grade A) and mathematics (minimum grade A), plus grade A in the EPQ
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 points at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in chemistry and 6 at Higher Level in mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) or 7 at Higher Level in mathematics (Applications and Interpretation)
Applicants with Higher Level chemistry who have not studied Higher Level mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year . Applicants with Higher Level mathematics who have not studied Higher Level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year .
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus A in A-level chemistry and A in A-level mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC National Diploma and BTEC National Extended Diploma if studied alongside A-level chemistry and A-level mathematics.
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: AAB, including chemistry (minimum grade A) and mathematics (minimum grade A)
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Applicants with A-level chemistry who have not studied A-level mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year . Applicants with A-level mathematics who have not studied A-level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year .
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grade A in A-level chemistry and grade A in A-level mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC Diploma and BTEC Extended Diploma if studied alongside A-level chemistry and A-level mathematics.
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: AAB, including chemistry (minimum grade A) and mathematics (minimum grade A)
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 including chemistry, mathematics and applied mathematics
Applicants who have not studied mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year Applicants who have not studied chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
D3 D3 D3 in three Principal subjects including chemistry and mathematics
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A-levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Applicants who have not studied mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year Applicants who have not studied chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
AAA from three A-levels including chemistry and mathematics or AA from two A-levels including chemistry and mathematics, and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate.
General Studies, Critical Thinking and use of mathematics are excluded for entry. A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Applicants with A-level chemistry who have not studied A-level mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year . Applicants with A-level mathematics who have not studied A-level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year .
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Not accepted for this course.
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
If English is not your first language, you must show that you can use English to the level we require. Visit our English language pages to find out which qualifications we accept and how you can meet our requirements.
If you are taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), you must get at least the following scores:
If you do not meet the English language requirements through a test or qualification, you may be able to meet them by completing one of our pre-sessional English programmes before your course starts.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
The Science Foundation Year will give you the skills and knowledge to progress to this course if you don't have the right qualifications for direct entry.
It could be the right option if you:
are studying for A levels in subjects other than those we normally ask for
are a mature applicant with skills and experience from employment and can show recent study
you come from a part of the world where the education system is different from the British A level system
Find full details on our Science Foundation Year page.
We welcome applications from learners of all ages. Students who are aged 21 and over at the start of their undergraduate course are defined as mature by the University of Southampton. We take a holistic assessment of the application looking for academic ability and commitment to study. Typical entry requirements, which may vary from discipline to discipline, includes for example, evidence of recent formal academic qualifications or professional qualifications, relevant work experience or volunteering. You may also be invited to attend an interview with an Admissions Tutor. For some degree programmes, there may also be a Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) requirement. We accept many different academic qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.
AAA including chemistry and mathematics
General Studies, Critical Thinking and use of mathematics are excluded for entry. A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Applicants with A-level chemistry who have not studied A-level mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year . Applicants with A-level mathematics who have not studied A-level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year .
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAB including chemistry (minimum grade A) and mathematics (minimum grade A), plus grade A in the EPQ
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme as follows:
ABB including mathematics (minimum grade A) and chemistry (minimum grade B)
Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 points at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in chemistry and 6 at Higher Level in mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) or 7 at Higher Level in mathematics (Applications and Interpretation)
Applicants with Higher Level chemistry who have not studied Higher Level mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year . Applicants with Higher Level mathematics who have not studied Higher Level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year .
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus A in A-level chemistry and A in A-level mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC National Diploma and BTEC National Extended Diploma if studied alongside A-level chemistry and A-level mathematics.
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: AAB, including chemistry (minimum grade A) and mathematics (minimum grade A)
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Applicants with A-level chemistry who have not studied A-level mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year . Applicants with A-level mathematics who have not studied A-level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year .
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grade A in A-level chemistry and grade A in A-level mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC Diploma and BTEC Extended Diploma if studied alongside A-level chemistry and A-level mathematics.
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: AAB, including chemistry (minimum grade A) and mathematics (minimum grade A)
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
H1 H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 including chemistry, mathematics and applied mathematics
Applicants who have not studied mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year Applicants who have not studied chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
D3 D3 D3 in three Principal subjects including chemistry and mathematics
Cambridge Pre-Us can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A-levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Applicants who have not studied mathematics can apply for the <a href=" https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/foundation-years/engineering-physics-maths-geophysics.page#programme_overview%0A"> Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year </a> Applicants who have not studied chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
AAA from three A-levels including chemistry and mathematics or AA from two A-levels including chemistry and mathematics, and A from the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales.
General Studies, Critical Thinking and use of mathematics are excluded for entry. A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Applicants with A-level chemistry who have not studied A-level mathematics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year . Applicants with A-level mathematics who have not studied A-level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year .
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Not accepted for this course.
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
If English is not your first language, you must show that you can use English to the level we require. Visit our English language pages to find out which qualifications we accept and how you can meet our requirements.
If you are taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), you must get at least the following scores:
If you do not meet the English language requirements through a test or qualification, you may be able to meet them by completing one of our pre-sessional English programmes before your course starts.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
The Science Foundation Year will give you the skills and knowledge to progress to this course if you don't have the right qualifications for direct entry.
It could be the right option if you:
are studying for A levels in subjects other than those we normally ask for
are a mature applicant with skills and experience from employment and can show recent study
you come from a part of the world where the education system is different from the British A level system
Find full details on our Science Foundation Year page.
We welcome applications from learners of all ages. Students who are aged 21 and over at the start of their undergraduate course are defined as mature by the University of Southampton. We take a holistic assessment of the application looking for academic ability and commitment to study. Typical entry requirements, which may vary from discipline to discipline, includes for example, evidence of recent formal academic qualifications or professional qualifications, relevant work experience or volunteering. You may also be invited to attend an interview with an Admissions Tutor. For some degree programmes, there may also be a Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) requirement. We accept many different academic qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
This is a full-time course starting September 2021.
During the first two years, you'll learn the fundamentals of chemical engineering. As you progress through the course, you'll learn to apply these fundamentals to real-world problems.
Design and computational methods are a key focus of the course throughout.
In your third year you’ll have the option to specialise in your key areas of interest from a range of optional modules.
You have the option to take this degree with an extra year in employment.
You’ll develop your understanding of the core underlying principles of chemical engineering. You'll explore topics like:
You’ll learn to apply your knowledge and skills within a practical context and analyse your results using computational methods. You'll study topics like:
You’ll deepen your understanding of the relationship between design, manufacturing and material properties.
You'll complete a group design project that will bring together all of your theoretical knowledge and practical skills to create a design solution. This may be a simulation, a report to meet a brief, or even building part of a chemical engineering plant. Your project may be chosen to take part in our annual Engineering Design Show.
In the third year you’ll be able to specialise with optional modules ranging from chemical engineering for sustainable energy, to chemical engineering in the pharmaceutical sector.
You have the option to take this degree as a 4-year degree with a year in industry during your third year.
We'll help you find a paid placement in the UK for this year. This could be in an industry such as energy systems, pharmaceutical, food or emerging technologies. You’ll develop knowledge and skills to prepare you for the workplace, whilst you remain enrolled as a student, with access to all the University’s support services.
If you wish to apply for this degree with a year in industry you will need to use the UCAS code H802.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Engineers design physical products, systems and processes. They think big with vision, research, analyse, create, refine and deliver solutions. Engineering is a design discipline that is broad and holistic, while also focused and extremely precise. It ...
This module introduces the structure of atoms and molecules and how structure affects their behaviour and properties. Practical exercises are included to reinforce the theoretical aspects of the module.
This module will help you become proficient in data analysis and computational methods with coding that you will need for solving engineering challenges throughout your degree and beyond.
This course lays the mathematical foundation for all engineering degrees. Its structure allows students with different levels of previous knowledge to work at their own pace. Pre-requisite for MATH2048 One of the pre-requisites for MATH3081 and MATH...
This module covers the fundamentals of mechanics, statics, dynamics and materials. Providing a firm basis for all subsequent modules in these areas in later Parts and a further career in engineering. This module consists of four parts, Statics-1, Statics...
This module covers the chemical aspects of thermodynamics, equilibria, and kinetics, with a focus on their relationship to mass and energy balances and application of the concepts of physical chemistry in chemical engineering.
Core Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics for all Engineering Themes. Students should be aware that this module requires pre requisites of Mathematics
You must study the following modules in year 2:
The module will develop a detailed understanding of advanced particle technology and processes, including processes that have simultaneous heat and mass transfer. The main objective will be to learn how to design and size sustainable processes that invol...
This course is designed to introduce the phenomena of heat and mass transfer, to develop methodologies for solving a wide variety of practical engineering problems, and to provide useful information concerning the performance and design of particular syst...
The module aims to teach mathematical methods relevant for engineering. The first part is about differential equations and how solve them, from ordinary differential equations to partial differential equations. The second part is about either vector calcu...
A practical based module to reinforce lecture material from other modules on unit operations and to develop understanding of spectroscopic methods of chemical characterisation.
The primary objective of process control is to maintain and regulate the output of a process within desired or optimal parameters. In other words, process control involves managing and manipulating several factors and variables in a system to ensure that ...
The module will develop concepts related to reaction engineering and the design of reactors. Reaction engineering is at the heart of chemical engineering and one of the main requirements of chemical engineers is to design equipment where reactions take pl...
This module provides a comprehensive overview of fluids and separation processes, focusing on key mechanisms, principles and design of units for industrial processes with an emphasis on processes that have simultaneous heat and mass transfer.
You must study the following modules in year 3:
The module will further develop the understanding of reaction engineering and will look in detail in biochemical and biological reactors, real reactors and catalytic reactors.
This group project enables you to apply your conceptual engineering and science knowledge to a chemical engineering design problem. The ideas are developed through detailed design, experimentation, computer modelling and/or manufacture. You will need ...
This module is designed to enhance your understanding of what it means to be a Professional Chemical Engineer.
The module will develop a detailed understanding of advanced separation processes, including processes that have simultaneous heat and mass transfer. The main objective will be to learn how to design and size processes that are used in industrial separat...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
This module covers the contributions of chemical engineering to the sustainable production of energy and the use of sustainable energy management to improve chemical production and processing.
The module covers two main themes. One looks at the types of process that are used to purify water to a standard acceptable for distribution. The subject material is taught so as to give a fundamental understanding of the physical, chemical and biological...
The learning activities for this course include the following:
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Mohamed Hassan Sayed is the course leader.
This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business.
The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include:
The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.
Download skills overview
Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:
Manufacturing,
Scientific and Technical,
Water and Waste Management,
Education,
Public Administration,
Defence,
Finance.
Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.
Fees for a year's study:
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and standard exams.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £36,200 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.
The Student Hub offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Chemical Engineering (BEng) is a course in the Chemistry and chemical engineering subject area. Here are some other courses within this subject area:
