Chemical Engineering

Learn how to design and optimise crucial processes that are innovating almost every industry worldwide at one of the leading universities in chemical engineering.

Chemical engineering addresses many of the world’s greatest challenges in areas such as energy, environment, health, water and food.
As we move to a more technologically advanced and sustainable future, chemical engineers are providing much-needed innovation and leadership to decarbonise industry, manufacture sustainable products and advance healthcare.
Studying a chemical engineering degree at Leeds will give you the fundamental concepts and new skills used by the modern chemical engineer.
Our team of expert academics will educate you in core chemical engineering subjects, along with chemical engineering practice and design.
You’ll have the opportunity to learn industry-relevant topics such as digital design, machine learning, intensified processes and product formulation – disciplines that are the future of chemical engineering.
Demand for chemical engineers is only going to grow, with career opportunities spanning the globe. And you’ll graduate with the specialist knowledge, skills and experience you’ll need to make a real impact in this highly sought after profession.

Why study at Leeds

• Globally-renowned research: This feeds directly into your course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in everything from advanced engineering materials to sustainable systems and innovative manufacturing.

• Learn in a practical environment: Access excellent facilities, including our renewable technologies teaching lab and the virtual engineering environment that gives you hands-on experience in chemical plant operations.

• Upskill with an extra Masters year: Your fourth year will take your skills to the next level with an industry-based project and a chance to advance further on your chosen pathway.

• Your course, your choice: Pathways give you the chance to really hone your skill set to suit your career goals in digital manufacturing and processes, energy, nuclear or materials.

• Gain real-world experience: Our industrial work placements have given previous students the chance to work at – and build professional relationships with – organisations such as BAE Systems, Unilever and Mercedes F1 Team.

• Study abroad: Gain invaluable life experience and advance your personal development with our exciting study abroad programmes, spanning universities worldwide.

• Build your network from day one: The  ChemEng society is your chance to meet your chemical community across the university, while gaining guidance and invaluable insight from industry professionals at regular talks and networking events throughout your degree.

Rankings and awards

• Top 100 in the world for Chemical Engineering, QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026

• Top 10 in the UK for Chemical Engineering, Guardian University Guide 2025

Where this degree could take you
Here’s an insight into some of the job roles our graduates have obtained:

• Process Engineer, P&G

• Senior Operations Engineer, BAE Systems

• Process Engineer, Syngenta

• Operation Engineer, PETRONAS

• Corporate Banker, Lloyds Banking Group

• Project Manager, P&G

• Lead Distiller, Castle Freke Distillery

• Software Engineer, Newton Investment

• Production and Equipment Engineer, Micron Technology

• Assistant Chemist, Lear Corporation

• Managing Director, Plastochem Corporation

Careers support
Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years by the UK's leading employers, The Graduate Market 2026, High Fliers Research

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.

Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go way beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Chemical Engineers, Institution of