About Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering refers to the process of converting raw materials into products such as energy, clothes and food. Chemical engineers typically focus on the process, developing and designing processes that are followed to create products. This may involve improving existing processes or creating new ones altogether. All this must be done with resources, the environment and health and safety in mind.

　　Chemical Engineering differs from Chemistry in that it’s about finding practical applications for chemicals. While chemists work with materials on a small scale, typically in a lab, chemical engineers work in industrial and commercial settings to create products.

　　

Is Chemical Engineering right for me?

Chemical Engineering calls to detail-oriented and inquisitive individuals. As a chemical engineer, you’ll likely be part of a team, working with other chemists and engineers to develop products. Chemical engineers often have to work on-site as well, which can mean dealing with adverse weather conditions and wearing protective equipment. At other times, you’ll find yourself working in a lab to test chemicals and their reactions.

　　If you love making a valuable contribution to people’s everyday lives, Chemical Engineering can be a great avenue to pursue.

　　

Chemical Engineering study options and costs

　　Most professional chemical engineers have completed a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Engineering. The most common majors are Chemical Engineering and Industrial Chemistry. Completing an industry placement can add another year to your degree, boosting your employability when it’s time to graduate. An Honours year is another avenue to consider, equipping you with more specialised skills and knowledge. As a rough idea, a Bachelor of Science costs around AUD$40,000 a year in Australia and roughly £30,000 a year in the UK. Many Chemical Engineering students also actively look for internships while they’re still at university, which can provide them with an opportunity to earn money and gain experience while studying.

　　

Future outlook

Chemical Engineering graduates are highly sought-after, typically by government bodies, research facilities and private energy companies. Chemical engineers are also needed in sustainable energy, nanotechnology, mineral processes, bioengineering, pharmaceuticals and oil, which means the opportunity to make a difference and earn good money are truly endless! Overall, the demand for chemical engineers is expected to grow 7.3% in the next five years, which is greater than the average across all jobs.

　　

Career pathways for Chemical Engineering graduates

　　

Chemical Engineer

　　Chemical engineers design processes to produce, transform and transport materials. Beginning by experimenting in a laboratory, chemical engineers then bring materials and chemicals to full scale production. Chemical engineers are sometimes also called process engineers or universal engineers.

Industrial Chemist

　　Industrial chemists work alongside chemical engineers to produce goods using chemical production technologies, methods, materials and processes. Industrial chemists are responsible for running, troubleshooting and improving the processes that are followed to produce chemicals and materials on a large scale.

Biochemist

　　Biochemists study the chemical and physical properties of living things, looking at cell development, growth, disease and more. Their objective is to understand how chemical reactions occur in the tissues, paying special attention to the effects of any medicines that are applied. In this way, biochemists are able to make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of people, animals and environments.

Energy Engineer

　　Energy engineers work on energy-related projects, devising new and improved ways to supply energy. They do this by identifying ways to reduce costs, researching methods to generate new energy, and taking steps to minimise carbon emissions and environmental impact. As an energy engineer, you’ll often work on-site, conducting inspections and energy surveys.

Nuclear Engineer

　　Nuclear engineers are tasked with the important mission of monitoring nuclear facility operations to ensure all regulations and laws are adhered to. Typically stepping in during the construction process, nuclear engineers also research and develop the processes and tools used to generate maximum benefits from nuclear energy.