Program Overview

Master of Engineering Science (Chemical Engineering)

The Master of Engineering Science (Chemical Engineering) is a two-year full-time, postgraduate degree that builds on strong numerical and analytical skills, offering a pathway to a career in the leadership and management of complex transformational chemical engineering projects.

Overview

This degree equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, operate, and maintain chemical products and processes that create a more sustainable and humane future. Students will develop their capabilities in process equipment design, process plant design, and process control, and then further develop their skills in disciplinary and advanced disciplinary courses.

Entry Requirements

There are two entry points into this Master of Engineering Science specialisation, depending on the student's cognate background. Students with a cognate background can enter the Master's program with a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree or 3-year Engineering Science degree in a cognate discipline, with a minimum 65% average. Students with a non-cognate background can enter the Master of Engineering Science via the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science/Master of Engineering Science pathway.

Cognate Disciplines

Cognate disciplines include:

• Applied Chemical Technology
• Applied Chemistry
• Biochemical Engineering
• Bioengineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Biomolecular Engineering
• Biopharmaceutical Engineering
• Bioprocess Engineering
• Biotechnology
• Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
• Chemical and Materials Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering and Nanotechnology
• Chemical Engineering and Technology
• Chemical Process Engineering
• Chemical Technology
• Chemistry
• Environmental Engineering
• Food Engineering
• Food Process Engineering
• Food Science and Engineering
• Food Technology
• Functional Materials
• Materials Engineering
• Materials Science
• Mineral Process Engineering
• Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy
• Oil and Gas Engineering
• Petrochemical Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering
• Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering
• Pharmaceutical Engineering
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Engineering
• Pharmaceutical Technology
• Polymer Engineering
• Polymer Materials Engineering
• Polymer Technology
• Process Engineering
• Pulp and Paper Engineering
• Wine Engineering

Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)

Recognition of Prior Learning is the transfer of credit towards the program from previous study. If students have relevant previous study experience, they may be eligible for credit points that would enable them to complete their Master of Engineering Science in as little as one year.

English Language Requirements

Students may be asked to provide evidence of their English proficiency to study at UNSW, depending on their educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments, and examinations.

Program Structure

The full program consists of at least:

• 4 Disciplinary Courses
• 4 Advanced Disciplinary Courses
• 1 Engineering and Technical Management Course
• 3 enquiry-based courses (including a research project)
• 4 elective courses (across Disciplinary, Advanced Disciplinary, and Engineering and Technical Management courses)

Future Careers

As a chemical engineer, graduates will design, create, and optimise systems and equipment used in chemical, industrial, biological, and environmental processes. They can enter an array of industries, including:

• Alternative Energy
• Biotechnology
• Chemical Manufacturing
• Nuclear Energy
• Oil and Gas
• Paper Manufacturing
• Pharmaceuticals
• Petrochemicals
• Sustainable Engineering
• Water and Waste Management
• Consultancy
• Research and Development
• Field Engineering
• Design and Manufacturing Engineer
• Environment and Conservation

Fees & Scholarships

The 2026 indicative Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) first-year fee is $9,500, and the indicative CSP fee to complete the degree is $19,000. The 2026 indicative first-year full fee is $61,000, and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $127,000. UNSW awards over $83 million in scholarships each year, and students can explore various scholarship options.