Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering is one of the most versatile engineering disciplines, concerned with transforming raw materials and energy into products that society depends on, from medicines, fuels, and plastics to food, clean water, and industrial chemicals. Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics to design and operate the large-scale processes and equipment that make these transformations possible. The discipline spans scales from molecular reaction mechanisms to industrial plant design, and chemical engineers are central to the energy transition, pharmaceutical manufacturing, environmental management, and many other critical sectors.

At the University of Strathclyde, this distance learning programme is designed specifically for those who are already working in technical roles and want to develop or formalise their engineering expertise without leaving employment. It is ideal if you are already working as a technician and want to move into an engineering role, or if you are an engineer or scientist from another discipline who wants to build chemical engineering knowledge alongside your existing practice. The programme is studied part time and delivered by distance learning, giving you the flexibility to progress at a pace that fits your professional and personal commitments.

You will study the core chemical engineering curriculum, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, reaction engineering, and process design, developing a rigorous theoretical foundation to complement the practical experience you already have.

Chemical engineering graduates and professionally qualified chemical engineers work across oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, food and drink manufacturing, specialty chemicals, environmental services, nuclear energy, and water treatment. Roles range from process and design engineering to project management, technical consulting, and regulatory compliance. The strong technical foundation provided by this programme also supports progression to chartered engineer status with the Institution of Chemical Engineers.

Postgraduate study in areas such as process systems engineering, environmental engineering, or advanced materials is a route for those seeking deeper specialisation.