Chemical Engineering

The main topics covered in the course curricula of chemical engineering include thermodynamics, material science and engineering, biochemical engineering, safety engineering, environmental engineering, process instrumentation, petrol refinery engineering, high polymer engineering and fluid mechanics. These are covered in the syllabus of most major universities. Electives might include water treatment technology, computational fluid dynamics, food technology, surface coating, ceramic technology, rubber technology, bio-nanotechnology or industrial pollution control.

A syllabus for chemical engineering usually involves all common engineering subjects in the first year. From the second year onwards, specialized courses could include reaction engineering, chemical thermodynamics, surface science, chemical kinetics, fluid mechanics and catalysis, according to All About Education. Until their final year, students generally read about chemical processes and properties and cover topics such as chemical reactors and chemical thermodynamics. They might also begin experimenting with technology and devices. By the end of their studies, students will likely be exposed to pharmaceuticals, petroleum, polymers and chemicals, as well as computer and information technology as it relates to chemical engineering processes. Chemical engineering graduates might not need to pursue postgraduate education for employment. Higher studies are an option, but chemical engineering graduates will need to compete with a large pool of graduates for courses such as Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Chemistry, M.Sc. in Biology, M.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry or Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm.). Chemistry, biology and pharmacy graduates can all apply for the same field of work and study as chemical engineering graduates.