Program Overview
The BTEC HND Chemical Engineering program combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a comprehensive two-year curriculum. It equips students with a strong foundation in chemical engineering principles and prepares them for roles in the chemical and process industries. Graduates have the option to continue their studies towards a degree in Chemical Engineering or directly enter the workforce in various technology sectors. The program is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) and provides access to career support services.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The BTEC HND Chemical Engineering is a two-year full-time program designed to provide a comprehensive training in Chemical Engineering, blending theoretical knowledge with practical and project-based learning. The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a variety of roles in the chemical and process industries. It also serves as a stepping stone for students who wish to pursue a degree in Chemical Engineering.
Objectives:
- Provide a good all-round training in Chemical Engineering.
- Combine theory with practical and project work.
- Prepare students for a variety of positions in the chemical and process industries.
- Serve as a stepping-stone to a degree course in chemical engineering.
- Develop a deep understanding of the fundamentals of Chemical Engineering.
- Open a wide range of career options in various technology sectors, including energy, food and drink, pharmaceuticals, and the financial and environmental sectors.
Outline:
The HND Chemical Engineering course is structured around 240 credits, divided into 12 standard modules of 20 credits each. It also covers basic principles of chemical processes, such as mass and energy balances. Laboratory experiments support the teaching.
- Engineering principles 2: This module builds upon students' knowledge of engineering concepts, such as material science, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics, preparing them for further development in subsequent years of study.
- Study and laboratory skills: This module introduces study skills, focusing on both individual and team-working skills. It also introduces students to their own Personal Development Planning process and develops safe working practices in laboratory environments. It includes fundamentals of chemistry and chemical reactions, and communication skills in scientific and technical subjects.
- Applied mathematics 1: This module provides students with the mathematical knowledge and skills necessary for BEng programs. It covers basic algebra, linear and simultaneous equations, quadratic equations, and graphical methods.
Year 2:
- Thermodynamics and heat transfer: This module explores the fundamental principles of thermodynamics (heat, energy, and power) and their role in chemical engineering processes and systems. It also covers the principles and applications of heat transfer in chemical engineering. It also covers the fundamentals of fluid flow in pipes with friction and particle motion in fluids under Stoke’s law.
- Chemical engineering processes 1: This module imparts knowledge and understanding of heat, mass, and momentum transfer, describing classical and modern theories and techniques. It also covers the principles of reaction engineering. Laboratory experiments support the teaching. It enables them to solve chemical engineering problems using numerical techniques and programming languages such as Matlab software.
- Engineering mathematics and modelling: This module consolidates students' knowledge of a broad range of mathematical methods and techniques relevant to engineering courses. It enables them to apply mathematical methods, tools, and notations proficiently in the analysis and solution of engineering problems.
- Design and practice: This module focuses on engineering design and transferable skills development. Students undertake small engineering design projects, learn to use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, and develop their Personal Development Planning (PDP).
Assessment:
The assessment for the HND Chemical Engineering course is typically based on a combination of coursework and examinations, with an average weighting of 30% coursework and 70% examination.
Teaching:
The teaching team in the Division of Chemical and Energy Engineering is enthusiastic about teaching and research. They are a multidisciplinary team with expertise in chemical engineering, energy engineering, and materials engineering, with some members having industrial experience. Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, computer workshops, laboratory practicals, seminars, and group work. These methods are designed to deliver the intended knowledge, understanding, and intellectual, practical, and transferable skills.
Careers:
Graduates of the HND Chemical Engineering program may find employment in Chemical Engineering companies as operations engineers, project engineers, or technical support engineers. The program's vocational approach makes graduates attractive to employers, as they possess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Graduates can also choose to top up their HND to degree level by completing the BEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering or BEng (Hons) Chemical and Energy Engineering programs. These programs further develop skills as a chemical engineer, opening up a wider range of sectors, including chemical industries, food and drink, pharmaceuticals, energy, and oil and gas industries.
Other:
- The program is accredited by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) under license from the Engineering Council, which offers the opportunity to become a Chartered Engineer following from the previously accredited programs.
- The program provides students with access to the Employability Service, which includes free employability workshops and events, an online job board, and career resources.
- Students have the opportunity to undertake a work placement, internship, or work experience while studying a full-time course.
