Chemical engineering focuses on chemical, biological and physical processes and methods of material conversion. Examples include the conversion of sugar into alcohol, of ethylene into polyethylene or the physical mixing or separation of substances in the production of medication. In addition to the production of industrial products, the areas of application of chemical engineering also include environmental protection, recycling technology and the development of sustainable (i.e. in this case: resource-friendly) production processes.
14.02.2024
Overview
Chemical Engineering
Plastics, paints, detergents or medicines: chemical technology is used to produce all these products. The production and use of nanoparticles can also be part of this. For this purpose, students acquire not only knowledge about substance properties, reaction mechanisms and analysis methods, but also for the construction and functioning of apparatus and plants for processing nanoparticles.
The field of study at a glance
Course offered
Bachelor's and master's programs in this area are available at universities and technical colleges. The subjects range from chemical engineering to pharmaceutical technology to “technology of cosmetics and detergents”. In some cases, chemical engineering is also offered in combination with biotechnology. There are also a number of courses with different names but related topics.
Contents of the course
In the bachelor's program, modules teach the basics of science, such as physics, mathematics and chemistry. Later, more technical subjects follow, such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, measurement and control technology, instrumental analysis technology or pharmaceutical technology. The theoretical knowledge is deepened in laboratory internships
In the master's program, students learn to develop chemical and biotechnological products, production systems or production processes. Elective subjects such as macromolecular chemistry or nuclear waste disposal, are also offered.
When studying at a university of applied sciences, increased application relevance is possible in areas and industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, process or natural products technology, environmental and biotechnology, paint engineering or textile chemistry.
Admission criteria & application for study
Depending on the university, a preliminary internship may be necessary.
Career opportunities after graduation
Job opportunities for chemical engineering engineers exist primarily in the chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries, in the petrochemical industry, the iron and steel industry, the plastics industry, the wood and building materials industry, the glass and ceramic industry, the paper and Pulp industry, the textile industry, the food and beverage industry, in supply and disposal companies also in research and development, for example in the areas of medicine or the environment.
Study information
