How to become Chemical engineer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You'll normally need a degree or postgraduate qualification in:
- chemical engineering
- process engineering
- biochemical engineering
You may be able to do a postgraduate conversion course if you have a degree in a related area like engineering, chemistry or polymer science.
Some universities offer a foundation year for people without qualifications in maths and science, which allows them to move onto the degree course afterwards.
You could take a postgraduate master's qualification like an MEng. This would include independent research and would give you a greater knowledge and understanding of chemical engineering science. It could also prepare you for further postgraduate study like a PhD.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including chemistry
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a science industry process engineer degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a chemical engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Institution of Chemical Engineers for professional development opportunities.
Further information
You can find more details about careers and training in chemical engineering through the Institution of Chemical Engineers.