Program Overview

---

Introduction to the Master's Programme in Chemical Engineering

The Master's degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Groningen is a two-year, full-time programme that prepares students to tackle global challenges by merging fundamental chemistry with large-scale industrial applications. Students will learn to design cleaner chemical processes, develop advanced materials, and apply catalytic and polymer technologies for a circular economy.

Programme Overview

The programme includes a shared core and a choice of various electives, with a main research project taking place in one of the expert groups in Green Chemical Reaction Engineering or Chemical Product Technology. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge and experience to innovate in fields like clean energy, materials science, or process design.

Programme Structure

• The two-year programme offers five chemical engineering specializations:
  • Advanced Process Technology
  • Polymeric Products
  • Bio-based Products and Processes
  • Industrial Catalysis
  • Renewable Energy
• The programme is split into a core programme (95 ECTS, compulsory for every student), a sub programme of 15 ECTS, and 10 ECTS choice.

Admission Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering with elements of (polymer) chemistry.
• Interested candidates with a background in the field of food/biotechnology will be evaluated on a case by case basis.
• The Admissions Office will advise the Board of Admissions on the application, after which the board will decide if the student meets the admission requirements in terms of general level of previous education and specific background knowledge.

Tuition Fees

• Nationality: EU/EEA, Year: 2026, Fee: € 2601, Programme form: full-time
• Nationality: non-EU/EEA, Year: 2026, Fee: € 24900, Programme form: full-time

Job Prospects

Upon successful completion of this Master's degree programme, graduates will obtain a diploma as Master of Science (MSc.) in Chemical Engineering. Chemical engineers from the University of Groningen are known for their flexibility and all-round skills, and can choose a career in companies like DSM, Nobian, or Philips.

Job Examples

• Work for multinationals like Philips, Nouryon, DSM, and Sabic
• Work for a small or medium company in the region
• PhD research position
• Work for consulting and engineering firms

Research

The Master's programme in Chemical Engineering includes a significant amount of research as part of its curriculum. The Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG) is the primary research institute the programme is connected to, and is composed of various research groups that cover a wide range of subjects, including:

• Supercritical CO₂ as a green solvent for industrial purposes
• Electrocatalysis to renewable hydrogen for the circular economy
• Conversion of waste products (CO2, plastics) and biomass into valuable products and fuels
• Development of industrial catalysts
• Design of industrial processes
• Developing new printable polymers for eco-friendly 3D printing
• The development and scaling of highly efficient microreactors to an industrial scale

Research Groups

Research groups Green Chemical Reaction Engineering (GCRE) and Product Technology (PT) are most relevant to chemical engineers.

Study Abroad

Study abroad is recommended for an average of 20 weeks, with a maximum of 60 EC. Exchange programmes have a typical duration of one semester and count toward the final degree. Internships can be carried out at a company in the Netherlands or abroad, with a typical duration of 3 to 4 months and counting towards the final degree.

Extracurricular Activities

In addition to this master's programme, students can apply for the extracurricular FSE High Tech Systems and Materials Honours Master (1.5 years, 20 ECTS), developed in close collaboration with industry. This programme offers multidisciplinary collaboration, hands-on product development for a company, masterclasses, and workshops from experts. Upon completion, students will receive a mention on their diploma supplement.

BYOD Policy

Students of the Faculty of Science and Engineering are expected to adhere to the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, ensuring seamless integration of personal electronic devices for academic purposes.

Programme Options

• Advanced Process Technology (specialization)
• Polymeric Products (specialization)
• Bio-based Products and Processes (specialization)
• Industrial Catalysts (specialization)
• Renewable Energy (specialization)

Application Deadlines

• Type of student: Dutch students, Deadline: 01 May 2026, Start course: 01 September 2026
• Type of student: EU/EEA students, Deadline: 01 May 2026, Start course: 01 September 2026
• Type of student: non-EU/EEA students, Deadline: 01 May 2026, Start course: 01 September 2026

Registration Procedure

The Board of Admissions will decide whether students can be admitted to the Master's degree programme. Applications are evaluated on a continuous basis, and students do not have to wait until the application deadline to apply.

After Your Studies

Upon successful completion of this Master's degree programme, graduates will obtain a diploma as Master of Science (MSc.) in Chemical Engineering (international title). In the Netherlands, graduates will also be entitled to use the ir. (ingenieur) title.

Study Associations

The Groningen Debating Society for Chemical Engineers Bernoulli was founded on 20 May 1985 for students interested in Product and Process Technology. Although most of the members of G.T.D. Bernoulli are students of Chemical Engineering, the society is also open to students of Industrial Engineering and Management, Technology & Operations Management, and Industrial Pharmacy at the University of Groningen.

Follow Us

Follow the University of Groningen on social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, to stay updated on the latest news and events.