Program Overview

Biochemical Engineering MEng

The Biochemical Engineering MEng is a four-year interdisciplinary program that combines applied biology, mathematics, and engineering thinking. It is ideal for those who enjoy using science to solve real-world issues.

Program Overview

The program is based at UCL's Bloomsbury campus and is part of the Faculty of Engineering Sciences. It brings together 10 cutting-edge departments and is the only biochemical engineering department in a UK university, incorporating the Advanced Centre for Biochemical Engineering (ACBE).

Entry Requirements

• A levels: AAA, with Mathematics required, plus one from Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
• GCSEs: English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4.
• IB Diploma: 38 points, with a total of 18 points in three higher-level subjects, including Mathematics at grade 6, plus one from Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
• Contextual offer: ABB, with A in Mathematics, B in one of Biology, Physics, or Chemistry.

Tuition Fees

• UK students: ｣9,790 (2026/27)
• International students: ｣42,700 (2026/27)

Program Structure

The program consists of four years of full-time study, with a total of 480 credits. The first three years include compulsory and optional modules, while the final year offers a choice of pathways, including a Master's year, Year Abroad, Year in Industry, or Business and Management.

Modules

• Year 1: Eight compulsory modules, including introductory material on biochemistry, biochemical engineering, fluid flow, and thermodynamics.
• Year 2: Six compulsory modules and two optional modules, covering more advanced material.
• Year 3: Six compulsory final-year modules and two optional modules, including a group design project and a lab project.
• Year 4: A final integrated Master's year with a choice of pathways.

Pathways Options

• Biochemical Engineering: Bioprocess Systems Engineering, Sustainable Industrial Bioprocesses and Biorefineries, Bioprocess Research Project, Project Management, Business in a Competitive Environment.
• Biochemical with Bioprocess Management: Commercialisation of Research Ideas, Advanced Enterprise Implementation, Bioprocess Systems Engineering, Bioprocess Validation and Quality Control, Bioprocess Research Project, Project Management, Business in a Competitive Environment.
• Year in Industry: Students undertake an industrial placement with a partner company, applying theoretical learning to hands-on engagement with industry.
• Year Abroad Programme: Allocation of study abroad places is a competitive process, with successful students transferring to the Year Abroad degree programme and spending a year overseas at a partner university.

Teaching and Learning

The program uses innovative teaching and assessment methods, including blended learning, problem-based learning, e-learning, and peer assessment. Students are taught through a combination of lectures, case studies, team-based projects, and laboratory and pilot-plant-based practicals.

Assessment

Diverse forms of assessments linked to learning outcomes are designed to test a broad range of skills. Modules at the start of the degree are assessed via 2-3 pieces of coursework and an unseen examination at the end of the year.

Employability

The core science, engineering, business, and leadership skills acquired provide excellent and diverse career prospects. Graduates have gone on to roles such as biochemists, biomedical scientists, management consultants, programmers, software developers, engineers, and financial analysts and advisers.

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the IChemE as satisfying the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Chemical Engineer.

Fees and Funding

• UK undergraduate fees for 2026/27 are subject to parliamentary approval and are for the first year only.
• International undergraduate students benefit from a cohort guarantee, unless indicated below, meaning that their tuition fees will not increase during the course of the program.
• The department has established a trust fund that supports five bursaries per year, each worth at least ｣1500.
• Various funding options are available, including student loans, scholarships, and bursaries.