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Process engineering is essentially the application of chemical engineering principles to optimise the design, operation and control of chemical processes. Since this requires equipment design and selection, mechanical engineers may also be employed as process engineers.

Chemical engineering is concerned with changing raw materials into useful products by designing processes which change their chemical or physical composition, structure or energy content. Biochemical engineering is a branch of chemical engineering which is concerned with biological changes and is particularly important in the production of pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs and the treatment of waste.

Chemistry investigates the background of the science encompassing aspects of; organic, inorganic, analytical, physical, and bio-chemistry. Chemical engineering is more multidisciplinary and practical, applying engineering science to problems relating to heat transfer, fluid dynamics, equipment design etc. Whilst chemists will focus on developing novel materials and processes, chemical engineers focus on turning these new ideas…

Yes! Chemical engineering is a well-respected discipline that opens many career paths across industry, business and finance. Chemical engineering graduates are highly sought after as employers recognise that their analytical and problem-solving skills are highly transferable.

Chemical engineers are the best paid group of engineers. According to an annual salary survey of IChemE members, those under the age of 25 earn £30,000/y on average. More details about the salaries for chemical engineers can be found on our salary survey page.

The choice of work available is exceptionally wide. Chemical engineers work in large international companies, as well as smaller companies; in sectors as wide ranging as chemicals, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, food and drink, biotechnology and water. They are also highly sought after in business and finance.

A chemical engineering degree equips you with easily transferable skills. Graduates usually take on considerable responsibility within a few years of graduation. For this reason, job prospects are excellent and often involve the chance to reach senior managerial positions at a young age.

Sectors chemical engineers work in include:

Chemical engineers are trained to apply fundamental engineering principles to design, develop and manage processes while maximising economic returns and reducing environmental impact. Chemical engineers need to work as part of a team and develop good communication skills. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills are also a bonus.