Chemical engineering takes different types of raw materials and chemicals and transforms them into products that benefit our lives in many different ways. Chemical engineers are optimising a chemical process to be as efficient as possible by transforming one thing into another.
Chemical engineering is a popular branch of engineering, and international students are attracted to UK universities because of the state-of-the-art facilities, experienced teaching teams and welcoming learning environments. All UK engineering schools have close links to leading multinationals and offer exciting industrial collaborations and placement opportunities, while academic staff are some of the world’s best. Completing a chemical engineering degree at one of the best universities for chemical engineering in the UK will provide excellent career prospects, opening up varied opportunities worldwide.
Do you want to apply to study at a UK engineering school? Learn more about the top 10 chemical engineering universities in the UK below (Guardian University Guide 2026) and arrange a free consultation with StudyIn London today to get your application started.
Chemical Engineering University Ranking UK: Top 10
The universities listed below for studying chemical engineering in the UK provide a robust foundation in the discipline and champion innovation, research, and industry collaborations.
Cambridge University’s Chemical Engineering MEng offers an in-depth study of core chemical engineering principles, covering discipline, sustainability, and product design. The four-year MEng Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology degree explores thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and more.
In its third year, it highlights biotechnology’s role in sectors like agriculture and healthcare. The department provides numerous research opportunities for all students. Known globally, the University of Cambridge has top educators, modern amenities, and robust industry connections, equipping students for roles in energy, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors.
- Suggested course: MEng Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
- Entry requirements: IB 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level
Heriot-Watt University has been a leader in Chemical Engineering for over 50 years, with 96% of its engineering research classed as world-leading in the REF 2021 review, ranking it 1st in Scotland and 3rd in the UK for engineering research through a joint submission with the University of Edinburgh.
The BEng is informed by research from Heriot-Watt’s Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering group and its Research Institute for Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering.
- Suggested course: BEng (Hons) / MEng Chemical Engineering
- Entry requirements: A-Levels BBC including Maths and Chemistry; International Baccalaureate 28 points, including Higher Level 6 in Maths and Chemistry
Chemical Engineering at the University of Edinburgh combines strong academic foundations with access to Edinburgh’s vibrant industry and research community. The course prepares students for careers spanning energy, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable process design, with a curriculum shaped by close ties to industry partners.
- Suggested course: Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons)
- Entry requirements: A-levels ABB to AAA; International Baccalaureate Standard Level English at grade 5; IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component
The University of Bath is known for providing academic excellence in chemical engineering, equipping learners with theoretical knowledge and practical skills tailored to industry demands. Students benefit from access to advanced facilities, including teaching labs with continuous reactors and microbial bioreactors, advanced separation research laboratories, and high-spec biochemical engineering labs, fostering breakthroughs in sustainable products, membrane technology, and the development of future fuels and foods.
- Suggested course: Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons)
- Entry requirements: 12th standard with an average of 85% marks, A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate, and English language requirements through tests like IELTS
Chemical Engineering at Bradford is shaped by the ongoing needs of industry, with a focus on the traditional disciplines of oil, gas, and petrochemical production, alongside pharmaceutical, food, and advanced materials sectors. The course is accredited by IChemE and delivered in a research-informed, multidisciplinary environment, with strong industry links feeding into live research projects.
- Suggested course: Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons) / MEng (Hons)
- Entry requirements: 104 UCAS tariff points, typically BCC including A-level Maths at minimum grade C plus another science subject; IELTS 6.0 with no sub-test below 5.0
Chemical engineering at Sheffield combines strong theoretical foundations with practical, industry-relevant training, preparing graduates for careers across energy, pharmaceuticals, and process industries. The course benefits from Sheffield’s strong industry links and research-active teaching staff.
- Suggested course: Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons)
- Entry requirements: Check Sheffield’s current UCAS listing for exact grade requirements, as these are reviewed annually
Imperial College London’s Chemical Engineering Department is known for its hands-on approach, emphasising lab work and project-based learning. As one of the UK’s leading institutions, Imperial’s MEng Chemical Engineering degree prioritises research, with students tackling projects in sectors like energy and healthcare.
Graduates are in high demand across various industries. The curriculum addresses the environmental effects of chemical processes, control methods, and safety engineering, and covers subjects like Thermodynamics and Sustainable Energy Solutions.
- Suggested course: MEng Chemical Engineering
- Entry requirements: IB 40 points with 7 in Mathematics at Higher Level, 7 in Chemistry at Higher Level, and 6 in Biology, Business Management, Economics or Physics at Higher Level
Newcastle University’s Chemical Engineering programme provides a direct route to becoming a Chartered Chemical Engineer, with hands-on practical learning and optional industry placements. Students develop broad expertise across thermodynamics, plant design, and process control, preparing them for careers as professional engineers.
- Suggested course: Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons) / MEng (Hons)
- Entry requirements: AAB including Mathematics and one of Physics, Chemistry or Biology (excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking); GCSE Physics or Combined Science at minimum grade B/6 if not offered at A-level
The University of Nottingham is an attractive choice for students in the UK for their higher education, offering a course accredited by IChemE and IOM3, ensuring high-quality education from research, industrial, and teaching experts.
Students will get essential engineering skills while developing transferable competencies like project management, finance, and teamwork, preparing for diverse industries, including energy, pharmaceuticals, and government agencies worldwide. The course prioritises process design, encompassing process and plant design from the first year onwards.
- Suggested course: Chemical Engineering BEng
- Entry requirements: IB 36 points – 6 at Higher Level or 7 at Standard Level, and English language requirements through tests like IELTS
Loughborough University is one of the best universities in the UK, with an international reputation for academic excellence, world-renowned faculties, and modern facilities. Students get personal tutors for guidance on module selections, academic preferences, and future careers or studies, alongside support from an award-winning Careers Network team.
- Suggested course: Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons)
- Entry requirements: 12th standard school leaving qualifications with an average of 78-88% marks, International Baccalaureate, and English language requirements through tests like IELTS
Cost of Studying Chemical Engineering in the UK
International tuition fees for chemical engineering degrees in the UK vary by institution and course length, but typically range from around £19,000 to £30,000 per year for a BEng, with some MEng programmes at the most research-intensive institutions costing more.
Beyond tuition, chemical engineering courses often involve lab-based coursework, so it’s worth checking whether specialist equipment or lab coat costs are included in your fees or charged separately. As with all UK degrees, it’s best to confirm the exact current fee for your shortlisted course directly with the university, since fees are reviewed annually.
Study Chemical Engineering in the UK
If you want to study chemical engineering in the UK, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn today.
FAQs
What are the best universities for chemical engineering in the UK?
According to the Guardian University Guide 2026, the best universities for chemical engineering in the UK are the University of Cambridge, Heriot-Watt University, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Bath, and the University of Bradford, rounding out a top 10 that also includes Sheffield, Imperial College London, Newcastle, Nottingham, and Loughborough.
What is the chemical engineering university ranking in the UK?
The chemical engineering university ranking in the UK, according to the Guardian University Guide 2026, places the University of Cambridge first, followed by Heriot-Watt, Edinburgh, Bath, and Bradford. The chemical engineering uni rankings continue with Sheffield, Imperial College London, Newcastle, Nottingham, and Loughborough rounding out the top 10.
What are the admission requirements for chemical engineering?
For most UK universities, admission requirements for a chemical engineering undergraduate course typically include an International Baccalaureate diploma or A-level equivalent with a specific score, especially in Mathematics and Chemistry, English language proficiency tests such as IELTS or PTE Academic for non-native speakers, and a personal statement, with references sometimes required.
What is the highest salary for a chemical engineer?
A highly experienced, chartered chemical engineer in the UK can earn up to £95,000 per year at senior level, with technical director roles in specialised or managerial sectors potentially reaching £140,000.
Is it worth studying chemical engineering?
Chemical engineering offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, making it both intellectually stimulating and career-oriented. With the skills gained, graduates can address global challenges, from sustainability to healthcare.
How many years are there in a chemical engineering degree?
In the UK, a Bachelor’s (BEng) in Chemical Engineering typically lasts three years, while an integrated Master’s (MEng) degree is a four-year programme. Further specialisation, like a PhD, can take an additional three to four years.
What are the career opportunities for a chemical engineer?
A chemical engineer has a wide array of career options, including:
- Process Engineer in oil and gas or food and drink sectors
- Product Development Engineer in pharmaceuticals or consumer goods
- Energy Consultant focusing on sustainable energy solutions
- Research Scientist in academia or industry
- Environmental Engineer working on pollution control and sustainability
- Operations or Plant Manager overseeing production facilities
- Roles in digital manufacturing, patent law, or finance, where technical knowledge is an asset
