Chemical Engineering with Sustainable Engineering
MEng Honours
- UCAS code: HH82
- Full time
- 4 years
- Next start date: September 2021
This degree focuses on the need for sustainable engineering solutions that balance environmental, social and economic concerns.
Fees (per year)
- Home: £9250
- International: £23400
Entry requirements
- A Level: AAB
- IB: 34 points
UCAS Institution name and code:
- NEWC / N21
Course overview
This four-year MEng degree provides a direct route to becoming a Chartered Engineer, one of the most recognisable international engineering qualifications.
It focuses on the need for sustainable engineering solutions that balance environmental, social, and economical concerns. This specialist degree will give you an understanding of how chemical engineers can make a difference to the environment with manufacturing solutions that reduce emissions, energy consumption, and waste.
Throughout the programme, you'll cover key topics such as sustainable processing, energy and materials technology, and enhanced design. You'll gain hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art labs, pilot plant, and dedicated computer suites with industry-standard software.
BEng or MEng?
Both our BEng degree and specialist MEng degrees provide a pathway to becoming a Chartered Engineer. This is one of the most recognisable international engineering qualifications.
Our MEng degrees are a direct route to becoming a Chartered Engineer (CEng). You don’t need to study any more qualifications after your degree to work towards chartered status.
Our three-year BEng degree can also lead to Chartered Engineer status. However, you’ll need to complete further study, such as an approved master’s degree.
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COVID-19
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to COVID-19.
See our terms and conditions for more information
View our Frequently Asked Questions
Additional information
Flexible degree structure
All of our Chemical Engineering degrees (except our Industry degree), cover the same study programme for the first three years. This means that transfer between our degrees (except the Industry degree) is possible up to the end of Stage 3 should you find your interests change, providing you achieve the appropriate academic standard.
Transfer to or from our Industry degree is also possible up to the end of Stage 2, providing you achieve the appropriate academic standard.
Quality and ranking
We have a top 5 UK ranking for Chemical Engineering in The Guardian University Guide 2020. We also rank in the top 150 for Chemical Engineering in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2020.
Teaching excellence
TEF GoldA ringing endorsement of Newcastle University’s long tradition of excellence in teaching.

Professional accreditation

All of our degrees are accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) and the Institute of Measurement and Control.
IChemE accreditation means employers will recognise the quality of your degree because it meets high professional standards.
All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body.
Modules and learning
Modules
The information below is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Most degrees are divided into stages. Each stage lasts for one academic year, and you'll complete modules totalling 120 credits by the end of each stage.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content may change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Optional module availability
Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
To find out more please see our terms and conditions.
In the first year, you'll be introduced to the core principles of engineering, maths, and science. Your focus will be on chemistry, thermodynamics, the principles of chemical engineering, and engineering mathematics.
Modules
Compulsory Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Chemistry | 25 |
Thermodynamics | 10 |
Transfer Processes | 25 |
Principles of Chemical Engineering | 25 |
Computing and Numerical Methods | 10 |
Data Analysis in Process Industries | 5 |
Engineering Mathematics I | 20 |
Your Stage 2 studies will expand upon the knowledge and skills developed in Stage 1, as well as introducing additional areas such as separation processes, reactor engineering, and process measurement, dynamics, and control.
Modules
During Stage 3, you'll bring all of your knowledge together and work in teams to design a process plant. You will take on the role of sustainable engineer and will be responsible for reducing the impact of the plant design.
Modules
Compulsory Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Process Control 2 | 10 |
Process Design & Economics | 15 |
Separation Processes 2 | 15 |
Design for Process Safety | 10 |
Reactor Systems Engineering | 15 |
Process and Product Engineering | 10 |
Plant Design | 40 |
Chemical Engineering Laboratory II | 5 |
In your final year, your learning will focus on specialist topics such as sustainable processing, energy and materials technology, and cleaner design tools and techniques. You will also carry out a research project and an advanced design project.
Modules
Compulsory Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Sustainable Industry | 10 |
Process Intensification | 10 |
Stability and Sustainability of Materials | 10 |
Advanced Design Project | 20 |
Bioprocess Engineering | 10 |
MEng Research Project | 60 |
Optional Modules | Credits |
---|
Teaching and assessment
Teaching methods
Our strong links with industry experts and focus on industry skills ensure you'll graduate fully equipped with the skills you need.
Your studies include:
- problem-based learning for the first three years based around industrial case studies – excellent preparation for life as a professional engineer
- lectures delivered by practising industry experts covering issues surrounding safety management and environmental protection
- industry representation on our Board of Studies with direct input into our degrees
- industry links with over 100 chemical engineering companies, resulting in sponsorship and placement opportunities and plant visits
We use case study-led teaching, so your learning has real-world relevance. Teaching is through a combination of:
- lectures
- tutorials
- seminars
- computer practice sessions
- extensive practical laboratory work
- group work on case studies and design projects
Assessment methods
You'll be assessed through a combination of:
-
Assessments
-
Examinations – practical or online
-
Presentations
-
Reports
Skills and experience
Research skills
During your final year, you will complete a substantial research project into an aspect of sustainable engineering. You'll have the opportunity to work with internal experts, develop high-quality research skills, and make a genuine contribution to this increasingly important sector.
Your project may be carried out with an industrial partner, in an overseas university, or within the School.
Business skills
You'll have the opportunity to complete a 9 to 12-month placement between years 3 and 4, allowing you to obtain first-hand experience of working in the sector, grow your professional network, and stand out in the graduate marketplace.
Practical skills
Reinforce your learning through:
- work on real-world engineering projects informed by industry-leading companies
- experience with industry-standard chemical engineering software in our dedicated computer suites
- practical sessions carried out in our Pilot Plant and Millennium Lab
- access to small-scale unit operations and the latest equipment in our state-of-the-art BioLab
Chat to a student
I chose Newcastle because it's one of the best universities in chemical engineering. Not only located in Newcastle, which is known to be a student city, but also a member of the Russell Group.
Opportunities
Study abroad
Experience life in another country by choosing to study abroad as part of your degree. You’ll be encouraged to embrace fun and challenging experiences, make connections with new communities and graduate as a globally aware professional, ready for your future.
You can choose to spend up to a year studying at a partner institution overseas.
If you choose to study abroad, it will extend your degree by a year.
Find out more about study abroad
Work placement
Get career ready with a work placement and leave as a confident professional in your field. You can apply to spend 9 to 12 months working in any organisation in the world, and receive University support from our dedicated team to secure your dream placement. Work placements take place between stages 3 and 4.
You'll gain first-hand experience of working in the sector, putting your learning into practice and developing your professional expertise.
If you choose to take a work placement, it will extend your degree by a year. Placements are subject to availability.
Facilities and environment
Facilities
You'll have access to a great range of facilities and equipment during your time at Newcastle, including:
- a state-of-the-art BioLab, providing access to a range of small-scale unit operations and the latest equipment
- a recently upgraded pilot plant laboratory
- modern bench-top experimental equipment
- an interactive video teaching system
- high-specification fume cupboards for handling volatile chemicals
- two dedicated computing suites, running specialised industry-standard computer software
Support
To support you in your studies, you will receive a tablet so you can download the online learning resources you’ll need for your course (helping us to make our campus more sustainable), and a start-up pack containing essential personal protective equipment and text books.
You'll be supported by a personal tutor (an academic member of staff) throughout your degree. They can help you with academic and personal issues.
You'll also have access to a peer mentor (a fellow student) in your first year. They can help you settle in and answer any questions you have.
Your future
Chemical engineering is a well-respected degree and there is a growing need for engineers skilled in material and process engineering, with the ability to help manage resources, protect the environment, and control health and safety procedures.
90% of our 2016/2017 graduates were in work or study within six months*, taking roles such as:
- graduate process engineer
- well site drilling engineer
- business analyst
- capital project services consultant
- management consultant
Our graduates have taken on these roles with companies including BP, Carriss Construction, Essity, Terex Ecotec, and Arup Group.
*Destinations of (undergraduate, UK and EU) Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2016/17
Specialist knowledge
Having specialised in sustainability, you'll have opportunities across traditional industries including chemicals, energy, water, and pharmaceuticals, as well as in the green sector, in areas such as renewable fuels, and waste and resource management.
Benefit from our industry links
Strong industry links ensure you will receive the most relevant, up-to-date teaching, while providing opportunities for work experience, guest lectures, and plant visits.
Engineers from the British Chemical Engineering Contractors Association (BCECA) deliver sessions on chemical plant design that reflects current industrial practice. These engineers are from:
- ABB
- Air Products
- Aker Solutions
- Bechtel
- Costain
- Fluor
- Honeywell UOP
- Johnson Matthey
- KBR
- McDermott
- SABIC
- Wood Group
- Worley Parsons
Make a difference
Careers support
Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.
Visit our Careers Service website
Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK
From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK.
Defence Technical Undergraduate Scheme
This degree is approved by DTUS, a Ministry of Defence sponsorship programme for students who wish to join the Royal Navy, British Army, RAF, or Defence Engineering and Science Group (DESG) as technical officers after graduation.
Find out more about the Defence Technical Undergraduate Scheme
Entry requirements
All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2021 entry.
A Level
AAB
International Baccalaureate
34 points
Other UK qualifications (and PARTNERS)
Qualifications from outside the UK
English Language requirements
PARTNERS
Through our PARTNERS programme, you could receive an offer up to three grades lower than the typical requirements, and get support throughout the application process. To apply through PARTNERS, you must be based in the UK and meet our eligibility criteria.
Entrance courses (INTO)
International Pathway Courses are specialist programmes designed for international students who want to study in the UK. We provide a range of study options for international students in partnership with INTO.
Find out more about International Pathway Courses
Admissions policy
This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University, including Newcastle University London. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Tuition fees for 2021 entry (per year)
Home Fee Students
£9250
International Fee Students
£23400
The maximum fee that we are permitted to charge for home fee-paying students is set by the UK government.
As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.
You will be charged tuition fees for each year of your degree programme (unless you are on a shorter exchange programme).
The tuition fee amount you will pay may increase slightly year on year as a result of inflation.
For courses commencing from September 2021 and beyond, EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fees or Student Finance England support.
If you are from the EU you will pay international tuition fees.
Year abroad and additional costs
For programmes where you can spend a year on a work placement or studying abroad, you will receive a significant fee reduction for that year.
Some of our degrees involve additional costs which are not covered by your tuition fees.
Find out more about:
Scholarships
Find out more about:
Open days and events
The situation with Covid-19 means that we're unable to hold Open Days on campus. However, you don’t have to visit in person to experience Newcastle.
From the comfort of your sofa you'll be able to:
• explore our beautiful campus
• find out about our vibrant city
• discover what students think about studying at Newcastle
You'll also have the opportunity to speak to academic staff and find out more about the subjects you're interested in.
We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University. Visit our events calendar to find out when we're visiting your region.
How to apply
Apply through UCAS
To apply for undergraduate study at Newcastle University, you must use the online application system managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). All UK schools and colleges, and a small number of EU and international establishments, are registered with UCAS. You will need:
- the UCAS name and institution codes for Newcastle University (NEWC/N21)
- the UCAS code for the course you want to apply for
- the UCAS 'buzzword' for your school or college
If you are applying independently, or are applying from a school or college which is not registered to manage applications, you will still use the Apply system. You will not need a buzzword.
Apply through UCASApply through an agent
International students often apply to us through an agent. Have a look at our recommended agents and get in touch with them.
Get in touch
By Phone
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