Chemical Engineering with Foundation Year
Program Overview
Through a four-year integrated curriculum, students build a solid foundation in mathematics, science, and engineering principles, equipping them for careers in diverse industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceutical, and energy. The program emphasizes project work, industrial collaboration, and transferable skills development, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities in the field.
Program Outline
Objectives:
The program aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and engineering principles to prepare them for the rigors of a Chemical Engineering degree. It also aims to develop their problem-solving abilities, teamwork skills, and communication skills.
Description:
The program is a four-year program, with the first year dedicated to foundation studies. Students will cover core modules in mathematics, materials, mechanics, science and engineering laboratories, science and engineering skills, and statistics and data. They can also choose optional modules from a range of subjects, including calculus, computer programming, electronics, group projects, individual projects, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and more.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary across modules and may include:
- Written Assignments: Essays, reports, and other written assignments to demonstrate critical thinking, research skills, and communication skills.
- Laboratory and Project Reports: Reports documenting experiments, projects, and findings to assess practical skills and data analysis abilities.
Teaching:
- Lectures: Interactive lectures delivered by experienced faculty members to convey core concepts and theories.
- Seminars: Smaller group discussions and workshops to facilitate deeper understanding and critical analysis.
- Tutorials: Individual or small group sessions with tutors to provide personalized guidance and support.
- Project Work: Team-based projects to develop practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills.
- Guest Lectures: Industry experts share their insights and experiences to provide real-world perspectives.
- Transferable and Teamworking Skills Weekend: A weekend retreat in the Lake District to enhance collaborative working skills and develop personal effectiveness.
Careers:
Graduates of the Chemical Engineering program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in industries such as:
- Oil and Gas: Process engineers, design engineers, production engineers.
- Pharmaceutical: Formulation engineers, analytical scientists.
- Energy: Process engineers, design engineers.
- Finance: Investment bankers.
Other:
- The School of Chemical Engineering is the first in the UK to have a research facility for energy storage using cryogenic liquids, comprising new laboratories, state-of-the-art equipment, and a major demonstration plant - The Birmingham Centre for Cryogenic Energy Storage.
- The program offers a strong emphasis on project work in the final year, allowing students to work closely with industry figures and develop their design project skills.
- The University of Birmingham has strong industrial links with companies such as BP, GSK, Unilever, and Procter and Gamble, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.
- The program includes a dedicated Industrial Tutor to assist students with sourcing placements, CV writing, and interview preparation.
- The University's Careers Network provides tailored careers guidance, exclusive work experience opportunities, mentoring, global internships, and placements.
- The Personal Skills Award (PSA) recognizes extra-curricular activities and provides an accredited employability program to enhance career prospects.
Tuition Fee: £9,250