Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, BA (Hons) and MEng

Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at Cambridge

The skills you'll learn are essential to the development of processes and products that are needed to address some of the problems facing humanity. These include:

• the need for sustainable food and water supplies as climate change occurs
• the provision of improved global healthcare solutions and therapeutics
• the energy transition away from fossil fuels

As well as learning scientific theory, you'll work on projects that teach you about the practical side of process and product design.

We aim to produce graduates who meet the needs of today's process and biotech industries. To do this, we provide you with:

• a thorough understanding of the subject
• technical competence
• transferable skills

You can graduate after 3 years with a BA degree, but most students stay on for the fourth year which leads to the BA and MEng degrees.

Teaching and facilities

Teaching

We have a reputation for excellence in teaching and research. The Department regularly tops national league tables. We also benefit from strong links with industry.

Facilities

Our purpose-built department building has the highest quality teaching and research facilities.

These include:

• laboratory space for practicals and research projects
• a Makerspace area with 3D printers and other mechanical and electronic workshop equipment
• a computer suite
• lecture theatres and classrooms
• a central social space for relaxing and networking

You'll be able to access library resources for Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology. These are at the West Hub, near to the department.

You'll also have access to:

• our impressive Cambridge University Library, one of the world’s oldest university libraries

Course costs

When you go to university, you’ll need to consider two main costs – your tuition fees and your living costs (sometimes referred to as maintenance costs).

Your living costs will include costs related to your studies that are not covered by your tuition fees. There are some general study costs that will apply for all students – you can find details of these costs here.

Other additional costs for Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology are detailed below. If you have any queries about resources/materials, please contact the Department.

Equipment

• University approved scientific calculator. Estimated cost £20.
• Lab coat. Estimated cost £15.
• Safety glasses. Estimated cost £5.

Becoming an accredited Chartered Engineer

The four-year course is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers.

This means that you can apply for Chartered Engineer status after you've graduated and have four years of relevant experience. You won't need to take any further exams.

Progression to the fourth year and accreditation are dependent on satisfactory performance in core components.

Your future career

There are many well-paid career opportunities within chemical engineering and biotechnology.

Some of our graduates go on to postgraduate study before entering employment.

Graduates may go on to work as:

• engineers in the process industries
• research scientists
• technical managers

The skills you learn on the course will also prepare you for careers outside of the subject. For example, previous graduates have gone into careers in finance and management consultancy.