This degree is focused on the underlying scientific theories and fundamentals behind Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology. A key selling point of the Cambridge course is that it is directly supported by a group of industrial organisations. Not only does this ensure a real-world influence on university tuition, but this connection also opens up the chance for internship opportunities.
The course is a wonderful one, and always tops The Times and the Guardian league tables for the best chemical engineering course in the UK. You will be taught mostly via lectures and supervisions, with additional 2-week engineering projects.
In first year, you will take courses in chemical engineering and cell biology. You will also study modules in Chemistry and Mathematics from the from the Natural Sciences Tripos. In your second year, you take a variety of mandatory topics, covering biotech and chemical engineering.
In your third year, you cover further chemical engineering topics and a course in biotechnology that looks at the applications of biotech. In Trinity term of your third year. you will be part of a group design project, providing you with vital hands-on experience of applying your knowledge to achieve a team goal.
If you choose to take the four-year course (and almost everyone does), you will have the opportunity to select your own topics from a list of optional papers (which may feature subjects such as pharmaceuticals, bionanotechnology or biophysics). You will also complete a research project, a paper on environmental impact, and advanced design. After graduation, Chemical Engineers have access to a multitude of well-paid career paths. This might include roles within the discipline (such as field engineering, research, or management), or in a new area such as finance, or postgraduate study. Furthermore, the four-year version of the Chemical Engineering course is ICE accredited so that graduates can apply for Chartered Engineer status (after acquiring relevant experience) without the need for additional exams.
