Chemical and Petroleum Engineering BEng (Hons) or MEng – 2020 entry
Why choose this course
Combining exceptional facilities with research-led teaching, our BEng and MEng Chemical and Petroleum Engineering courses will prepare you for a fulfilling career in the oil and gas or petrochemical industries.
Surrey is one of the few universities in the world offering you the chance to experience the complete chemical engineering process. Our new £1.7m chemical engineering facility and process plant allows you to use the kind of state-of-the-art equipment you’ll find in industry.
What you will study
Our BEng and MEng Chemical and Petroleum Engineering courses combine core chemical engineering principles with specialist modules, design projects, equipment design and research projects relating to energy and petrochemicals.
Taught by prize-winning academics and experienced former industrialists, you’ll gain practical experience working on a small chemicals plant in our newly-refurbished laboratory facilities. This will help prepare you for a wide range of fulfilling careers in the global energy sector.
You can apply to study for either a BEng or MEng (Master of Engineering). The MEng builds on the BEng course with a masters year and is a direct route to a masters qualification. You may have the option to switch to a BEng or MEng during your studies.
Key information
|
BEng (Hons) UCAS: H811 3 years View KIS data set |
BEng (Hons) UCAS: H810 4 years with professional training View KIS data set |
|
BEng (Hons) UCAS: H814 4 years with foundation year View KIS data set |
MEng UCAS: H813 4 years View KIS data set |
|
MEng UCAS: H812 5 years with professional training View KIS data set |
BEng (Hons) UCAS: H815 5 years with foundation year and professional training View KIS data set |
Professional Training placements
A Professional Training placement provides you with the opportunity to develop your professional, academic and personal potential, equipping you to be adaptable, resilient, globally minded, confident, entrepreneurial and digitally savvy in the workplace. These qualities are widely recognised by employers and many of our students are offered employment upon graduation by their placement provider.
The Professional Training placement year gives our students an insight into their subject and career potential, and early access to professional experience. It can be invaluable in developing work-based skills and helping them secure a graduate career.
Find out more about Professional Training placements and discover how these have transformed our students’ lives and career choices.
Chemical and Petroleum Engineering placements
Our academic work is enhanced by strong industrial links in all areas, both in the UK and overseas. These links have enabled us to arrange Professional Training placements in which we have built up considerable experience and expertise.
Placements provide you with invaluable first-hand experience of how industry operates and allow you to apply your theoretical knowledge to real-life technical problems.
Many of our students choose to take a Professional Training placement, which provides an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience, giving you a head start in your future career. Companies that have participated in our scheme include:
- Crondall Energy
- Det Norsk Veritas
- EDF Energy
- ExxonMobil
- Fluor Corporation
- GlaxoSmithKline
- Grace.
Applying for placements
Most students apply for and secure their Professional Training placement through our online employability and careers platform, Surrey Pathfinder, which gives you access to thousands of placement opportunities each year. We do not place students but provide plenty of support and guidance throughout the recruitment process. Having applied, you will participate in the placement provider’s own recruitment and selection procedures, which will vary depending on the organisation.
The University will also support students who want to source their own placement outside of Surrey Pathfinder, subject to University requirements being met.
Please be aware that attending interviews and assessment centres at a placement provider’s premises may require travel expenses.
Professional recognition
BEng (Hons) - Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
Accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
MEng - Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)
Accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) for the purpose of fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Chemical Engineer.
Accreditations
Careers and graduate prospects
We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University.
Chemical engineers work across a range of sectors in the UK and internationally, and are increasingly sought by speciality chemical industries that manufacture high value-added products.
On average, chemical engineers earn more than any other engineering discipline and graduates are consistently paid more than chemists and other scientists. The high salaries paid reflect the level of responsibility and importance which chemical engineering graduates quickly attain.
At Surrey, our excellent graduate employment record demonstrates the strength of our courses and Professional Training placements in preparing you for the world of work.
Our Personal and Professional Skills programme is undoubtedly another factor in the exceptional employment record of our graduates.
Demand for graduates in the oil and gas sectors and petrochemicals is expected to remain strong. New developments in the sector include:
- Marginal reservoirs, especially gas
- Adaption of refineries to use more of the barrel as petrochemical feedstock
- Decommissioning of exhausted offshore facilities
- LNG projects
- New feedstocks for petrochemical plants.
We’ve worked closely with industrial organisations to design these courses around their needs, to ensure that there will be excellent opportunities available to you upon graduation.
Recent graduates have entered employment in roles such as:
- Associate Process Engineer, Fluor Corporation
- Chemical Engineer, Saudi Aramco
- Utilities Shift Supervisor, Qatar Petroleum.
Study and work abroad
We give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their studies by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities or by completing a Professional Training placement abroad.
In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.
View our study and work abroad exchange information to find out more and see where you can go.
Please note: the status of the Erasmus+ scheme is dependent on the outcome of the Brexit negotiations.
The international exchange programme offers undergraduate students the opportunity to study abroad at a partner university for either one semester or a full academic year as part of their course. For BEng and MEng Chemical and Petroleum Engineering students, this is possible in your second year at one of our partner institutions:
- North Carolina State University, US
- Texas Tech University, US
- University of Cincinnati, US
- Swinburne University of Technology, Australia
- University of Queensland, Australia
- University of Sydney, Australia
- Seoul National University, South Korea
- University of Malaya, Malaysia
- Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
- Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
The exchange programme enables you to study and live in another country without paying extra tuition fees. In doing so, you’ll widen your perspective, meet other students from around the world and experience student life in some of the most prestigious universities in the world.
Studying abroad also enables you to become more independent, teaching you how to adapt and adjust to the culture and climate of another country.
Students have worked at Grace in Germany, Oiltech Engineering in Sri Lanka, Avery Dennison in the Netherlands and Bidco Africa in Kenya. If you work in another part of Europe you may be eligible for an Erasmus+ grant. This is an excellent opportunity to not only gain valuable work experience but also improve or learn another language.
Facilities
We’re one of the very few chemical engineering departments in the world that can give you the chance to learn on a complete chemical process, and not just pilot scale individual operations such as distillation.
In your third year, you’ll be able to carry out a realistic exercise in operating the process and take responsibility for factors such as safety, profitability and environmental impact.
Other laboratory experiments include a centrifugal pump test, a heat exchanger and the multiple stirred-tank chemical reactor experiment. You also receive 24-hour access to our computer rooms.
Personal and professional skills
We recognise that in order for chemical engineers to perform to the highest level, they need a wide range of skills in addition to technical proficiency. We also recognise that experience is the main driving force in development of these skills.
Chemical engineers often work in teams to solve problems, they adopt leadership roles and are required to be effective communicators. Our Personal and Professional Skills programme is designed to give you a head start in developing your skills in these areas.
Employers will see the personal development skills which our courses provide as giving you ‘something extra’, in addition to your technical competence.
Prizes
In addition to general University scholarships and bursaries, our extensive contacts in industry have resulted in prizes being awarded to undergraduates by Atkins, Halliburton KBR, Air Products, UOP, IChemE and the Worshipful Company of Engineers.
Terms and conditions
When you accept an offer of a place at the University of Surrey, you are agreeing to comply with our policies and regulations, and our terms and conditions. These terms and conditions are provided in two stages: first when we make an offer and second when students who have accepted their offers register to study at the University. View our offer terms and conditions and our generic registration terms and conditions (PDF) as a guide as to what to expect.
Please note: our offer terms and conditions will be available in the September of the calendar year prior to the year in which you begin your studies. Our registration terms and conditions will vary to take into account specifics of your course.
Disclaimer
This online prospectus has been prepared and published in advance of the academic year to which it applies. The University of Surrey has used its reasonable efforts to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content or additional costs) may occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for a course with us. Read more.
Academic year structure
The academic year is divided into two semesters of 15 weeks each. Each semester consists of a period of teaching, revision/directed learning and assessment.
The University operates a credit framework for all taught programmes based on a 15-credit tariff. Modules can be either 15, 30, 45 or 60 credits.
Modules
Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that modules may be subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.
Please note: If there is an optional Professional Training placement as part of your course you can view the full module listing for this on the relevant programme specification.
The structure of our programmes follows clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the programme specifications which include further details such as the learning outcomes:
Foundation
Optional modules for Foundation - FHEQ Level 3
For further information on FHEQ levels 4, 5 and 6 please view the programme specification for the full-time BEng (Hons) Chemical and Petroleum Engineeringprogramme.
Foundation (with PTY)
Optional modules for Foundation (with PTY) - FHEQ Level 3
For further information on FHEQ levels 4, 5 and 6 and professional training year please view the programme specification for the full-time with PTY BEng (Hons) Chemical and Petroleum Engineering programme.
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Optional modules for Year 4 - FHEQ Level 7
Plan A - 90 credits of compulsory modules and 30 credits optional (choice of 2 from 3 modules)
Plan B - 2 compulsory and 2 optional in Semester 1; 1 compulsory and 2 optional in Semester 2.
ENGM001 - Compulsory, Plan A only
ENGM072 - Compulsory, Plan A only
ENGM072 - Optional, Plan B only
ENGM078 - Optional
ENGM275 - Compulsory
ENGM291 - Compulsory
ENGM282 - Compulsory, Plan B only
ENGM214 - Optional, Plan B only
ENGM217 - Optional
ENGM218 - Optional
ENGM219 - Optional, Plan B only
ENGM255 - Optional, Plan B only
Timetables
Timetables are normally available one month before the start of the semester. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week (Monday–Friday). Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities. Part-time classes are normally scheduled on one or two days per week, details of which can be obtained from the course administrators. View our Timetabling Policy (PDF).
Teaching
Teaching involves conventional lectures combined with coursework, tutorials, case studies, projects, practical and discussion classes.
Methods of teaching and assessment in the early stages of the course aim to ensure you gain the relevant knowledge and techniques, including practice in finding information and deciding whether it is relevant.
The methods adopted in Years 3 and 4 (MEng) are influenced by the need to broaden and deepen the knowledge you’ve gained in previous years, developing the higher order skills you’ll need as a professional engineer.
Our chemical engineering courses will equip you with problem-solving, analytical and other transferable skills, enabling you to succeed in whatever career you pursue. You’ll also learn to assess business proposals which require capital investment but bring long-term profits.
Research students will sometimes help to deliver your modules. These students will be researching in a similar subject to the module, and will have undertaken training prior to being invited to teach. The University has a set of procedures that govern the use of postgraduate research students in this way.
Staff
This course is taught by academic staff from the Department of Chemical and Process Engineering.
Programme leader
ALPAY E Prof (Chm Proc Eng)
Personal tutor
All taught students are assigned a personal tutor before beginning a programme of study. Personal tutors offer support and advice to students in the areas of:
- Academic progress
- Pastoral/welfare issues
- Personal/professional development and employability.
Assessment
Modules are assessed individually and credits are awarded for the successful completion of each one. Assessment takes place through a combination of examination and/or coursework, practical examinations and reports. Check individual module information to see full details at a module level.
Contact hours
Contact hours can vary across our modules. Full details of the contact hours for each module are available from the University of Surrey's module catalogue. See the modules section for more information.
Learning and disability support
We have two services, Academic Skills and Development and the Disability and Neurodiversity Service which can help develop your learning.
Academic Skills and Development
Academic Skills and Development is a learning space in the Library where our learning development team is based. It comprises dedicated Student Learning Advisers and Information Skills Librarians who can help you develop your academic and research skills, including writing, presenting, revision and critical thinking.
Find out more about the study support available.
Disability and Neurodiversity Service
The University’s Disability and Neurodiversity Service supports students with disabilities, long-term health conditions, specific learning differences (such as dyslexia and dyspraxia) and other neurodiverse conditions (including autism spectrum and attention deficit disorder).
If you tell us about any conditions and register with us, we can give you appropriate support during your studies.
We can arrange exam and learning support adjustments, give advice on applications for the Disabled Students' Allowance, and test you for dyslexia and dyspraxia. We can also offer regular study skills and mentoring support.
Find out more about the support available or contact the team directly for further information.
English language support
Our English Language Support Programme (ELSP) provides tailored English language support during your studies. It is particularly valuable to students who speak English as a second or additional language, but native speakers are also welcome.
What qualifications do you need?
English language requirements
IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each element.
View the other English language qualifications that we accept.
If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.
Selection process
We normally make offers in terms of grades.
If you are a suitable candidate you will be invited to an Applicant Day. During your visit to the University you can find out more about the course and meet staff and students.
Foundation year
If you don’t meet our entry requirements, you might still be able to apply for this course with a foundation year. A course with a foundation year includes an extra year of study to prepare you for a full degree course. Find out more about our degrees with foundation year.
Recognition of prior learning
The University of Surrey recognises that many students enter their higher education course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of professional, vocational and community contexts. If this applies to you, a process called recognition of prior learning (RPL) may allow you to enter your course at a point appropriate to your previous learning and experience, or to join the start of a course without the formal entry requirements. This means that you may be exempt from certain elements of study in the course for which you have applied and be awarded credit based on your previous qualifications/experience. There are restrictions on RPL for some courses and fees may be payable for certain claims.
Please see the code of practice for recognition of prior learning and prior credit: taught programmes (PDF) for further information. Please email Admissions with any queries.
Fees
|
BEng (Hons) UK and EU To be confirmed Overseas £21,700 |
BEng (Hons) (with professional training year) UK and EU To be confirmed Overseas £21,700 Professional training To be confirmed |
|
BEng (Hons) (with foundation year) UK and EU To be confirmed Overseas £21,700 |
MEng UK and EU To be confirmed Overseas £21,700 |
|
MEng (with professional training year) UK and EU To be confirmed Overseas £21,700 Professional training To be confirmed |
BEng (Hons) (with foundation and professional training year) UK and EU To be confirmed Overseas £21,700 Professional training To be confirmed |
View a complete listing of all ongoing fees for our undergraduate courses.
- Fees for UK students: The University will apply annual regulated increases in the fee rates as set by Government each year, in order to maintain the same value in real terms.
- Fees for EU students: While the UK is part of the EU, the University will apply annual regulated increases in the fee rates as set by the Government each year, in order to maintain the same value in real terms. Once the UK has left the EU, the fees rules may change and the University is bound to comply with applicable legislation.
- Fees for international students: Annual fees will increase by 4% for each subsequent year of study, rounded up to the nearest £100, subject to any overriding applicable legislative requirements.
- Fees for international students with an integrated foundation year: The programme fee for Year 0 will match the lowest Year 1 overseas fee rate from across the substantive programmes for that year of entry. Students subsequently progressing into Year 1 will be liable for the same fee as overseas students joining at Year 1 for the same programme in that year. Annual fees after Year 1 will increase by 4% for each subsequent year of study, rounded up to the nearest £100, subject to any overriding applicable legislative requirements.
The University will assess your fee status. If you are unsure whether you are likely to be considered a home, EU or overseas student for fees purposes, the UKCISA website offers more information.
Payment schedule
- Students in receipt of a Tuition Fee Loan: will have their fees paid by the Student Loans Company in line with their schedule.
- International students, or UK/EU students who have not taken out a Tuition Fee Loan: are required to pay their fees either in full at the beginning of the programme or in two instalments as follows:
- 50% payable 10 days after the invoice date (expected to be early October of each academic year)
- 50% in January of the same academic year.
The exact date(s) will be detailed on invoices. Students on certain part-time programmes, where fees are paid on a modular or stage basis, are not eligible to pay their fees by instalment.
If you are sponsored: you will provide us with valid sponsorship information that covers the period of your study.
Additional costs
There are associated costs with this BSc (Hons) course:
- Books/stationery/admin: £10
Grand total: £10
There are associated costs with this MEng (Hons) course:
- Books/stationery/admin: £10
Grand total: £10
How to apply
Learn how to apply for an undergraduate course, see details about the UCAS application process and determine the steps you need to take if you receive an offer to study.
Admissions information
Our undergraduate admissions policy provides the basis for admissions practice across the University and gives a framework for how we encourage, consider applications and admit students.
Our students
Discover
Course location and contact details
Campus location
Stag HillStag Hill is the University's main campus and where the majority of our courses are taught.
Placement location
As part of this course you have the option to complete a Professional Training placement which would require attendance off campus, depending on where you secure your placement.
- Phone: +44 (0)1483 682222
- Email: admissions@surrey.ac.uk
University of Surrey
Guildford
Surrey GU2 7XH