Ever wondered how materials like nylon and polyester are made? How it’s possible to make food stay fresh for longer? Or what happens inside a water treatment plant? These are just some examples of subjects you might cover as part of a degree in chemical engineering – which is basically the study of materials and how to change them to meet the needs (or wants) of society. Research in this area is essential to pretty much every field of human activity – including manufacturing, health care, food, cosmetics, fuel and energy, textiles, biotechnology and waste management. Chemical engineering, or ‘chem-eng’, students need a strong background in maths and chemistry, and ideally in other sciences as well. You can also expect to learn about the wider context of chemical engineering, including financial, ethical and environmental issues. As well as lectures and seminars, courses are likely to include lots of practical work, both in labs and using computer simulations. In some cases students may also complete a work-based placement.

The majority of chemical engineers are employed in manufacturing and refining industries, where they are involved in the design and implementation of systems to mass produce materials or products. As well as monitoring safety and quality issues, this also means ensuring maximum efficiency and profitability. Those with an aptitude for leadership may move up to become plant managers or company executives. More research-based roles are also available, and the skills gained from a chemical engineering degree are transferable to a wide range of careers, for example in the financial, legal and environmental sectors. After a period of work in the sector, usually at least four years, chemical engineers can apply to the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) for official Chartered status – a mark of professional competence.