Chemical Engineering

1st in the UK for continuing students in the subject area of general engineering
Complete University Guide Subject League Table 2026

Study for a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering at university to kickstart your career in a variety of sectors.

Focusing on chemical engineering for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the food industry, a Chemical Engineering degree from Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) offers a well-rounded, innovative, and practical course structure to ensure that you’re ready for the world of work upon graduation.

What you'll learn

• Master the MIT-developed CDIO (Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate) approach to solve complex engineering issues through a hands-on, practical framework.

• Develop efficient and sustainable chemical processes tailored for the pharmaceutical and food sectors.

• Engineer innovative materials while ensuring operations remain safe and environmentally responsible.

• Apply advanced technical knowledge to create practical solutions for real-world industry challenges.

• Opt for a placement year between Years 2 and 3 to gain first-hand industry experience. You can choose this option once you’ve joined us, and we’ll support you throughout, helping you develop valuable real-world experience and enhancing your employability.

You’ll gain advanced knowledge in chemical engineering technologies, preparing you for a career that includes creating efficient and sustainable chemical processes, developing innovative materials, and ensuring safe and environmentally responsible plant operations.

You will also benefit from the engineering facilities in CCCU's STEM building, Verena Holmes. These include extensive labs with industry-standard equipment. This space is shared with students from other engineering and STEM subject disciplines, enabling you to create interdisciplinary networks with your peers..

What’s more, you’ll be able to unlock, develop, and expand your creative potential and build technical expertise through our industry-focused and practical curriculum. Designed with input from professionals, our chemical engineering degree will mould you into a self-assured, competent, and employable graduate.

This course also offers the opportunity to study abroad between your second and third years, giving selected students the chance to study at one of our prestigious partner institutions in North America. You’ll immerse yourself in a new culture, experience a different academic environment, broaden your horizons, and help you to stand out to employers in an increasingly global world.

Accredited by IChemE
Our course is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), ensuring the highest standards of teaching, alignment with industry expectations, and a clear path to professional registration.

Specialist facilities
Our multimillion-pound Verena Holmes building is home to our engineering workshop, mechatronics lab, makerspace and mechanical physics lab, all equipped with industry-standard technology such as wind turbines, plasma cutters, laser systems, industry-leading 3D printers, a water treatment plant, a bioreactor, a distillation column, and more.

For a list of core and likely optional modules, please visit our website.