Program Overview

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Overview

The MSc in Sustainable Chemical Engineering will provide students with the tools to create a more sustainable future through innovative processes, materials, and technologies. This program is designed for those with backgrounds in chemical engineering, chemistry, or related subjects, combining advanced technical experience with practical skills in sustainable technologies.

What You'll Learn

During this course, students will develop expertise in:

• core concepts of sustainable chemical engineering, including life cycle assessment and sustainability frameworks
• design of sustainable industrial processes and systems, including green chemistry and clean engineering technologies
• the drive to net zero and its implications for industry
• the role of chemical engineers in society, including professional and ethical responsibilities

Students will have the option to choose elective courses across key themes, including:

• Net Zero Technologies
• Circular Economy
• Sustainable Materials
• Renewable Energy
• Environmental Management

How You'll Learn

Delivery and teaching methods include:

• industry guest lectures
• site visits
• projects
• industrial project placements
• employment opportunities with added support from the Careers Service

Teaching methods typically consist of:

• lectures
• seminars
• practical lab sessions
• group work
• personal supervision

Assessment methods depend on the modules and may include:

• Computer assessment
• Design or creative project
• Dissertation
• Essay
• Professional skills assessments
• Oral examination
• Oral presentation
• Poster
• Problem-solving exercises
• Report
• Reflective log
• Research proposal
• Research paper
• Written examination
• Written exercise

Your Development

Students will build core skills in Advanced Chemical Engineering and Sustainability, including:

• solving engineering problems with sustainable solutions
• selecting and applying scientific principles, mathematical and computer-based methods for modelling and analysing
• analysis of systems, processes and components requiring engineering solutions
• researching and using scientific literature to develop concepts effectively
• assessing cost, safety, quality, reliability and environmental impact across a product or process life cycle
• evaluating design solutions against sustainability frameworks

Your Future

Graduates will be well-prepared to lead sustainability efforts across a wide range of industries and sectors. Some career opportunities include:

• Process Engineer
• Green or Process Chemist
• Sustainability or Energy Manager
• Environmental Consultant or Officer
• Industrial or Academic Researcher
• Government Policy Advisor
• Resource Management Specialist

Quality and Ranking

• 42% of the university's research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• Global Top 140 University – QS World University Rankings 2026
• Global Top 160 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
• Top 150 for Engineering - Chemical - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024
• Ranked 56th in the world and 19th in the UK for Sustainability (QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025)

Facilities

The School of Engineering has a wide range of Chemical Engineering facilities for teaching and research, including:

• Bioprocessing Laboratory
• Merz Court Analytical Suite
• Stu Brew
• Advanced Chemical and Materials Analysis
• Analytical services
• Automated Control Laboratory

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for 2026 entry (per year):

• Home students: £13,900
• International students: £30,050

Entry Requirements

The entrance requirements for 2026 entry include:

• A 2:2 honours degree, or international equivalent, in chemical, materials, mechanical, civil or environmental engineering, chemistry, or any pure applied science (Environmental Management Stream only)
• We will consider applications on an individual basis if you have lower or non-standard qualifications and significant, relevant professional experience

English Language requirements:

• IELTS
• Pearson's
• Duolingo English Test
• TOEFL
• Other
• Pre-Sessional Entry - 6 weeks
• Pre-Sessional Entry - 10 weeks

How to Apply

The course starts in September, and there is no application closing date. International students are advised to apply at least two months before the course starts. A deposit of £1,500 is required for international students or students from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland who need a visa to study in the UK. The deposit is non-refundable but will be deducted from tuition fees upon registration. Some students may need an ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate before they can get their visa or study on this programme.