Chemical Engineering Syllabus: Chemical engineers have significantly impacted our world through countless remarkable achievements and stories. From George E. Davis, recognized as the ‘founding father’ of Chemical Engineering, to Arthur D. Little, who introduced the concept of unit operations in physical and chemical processes, their contributions are vast. Pioneers like Margaret Hutchinson Rousseau, who developed the first commercial penicillin plant, and Dermot Manning, who discovered polythene, have pushed the boundaries of this field.
Chemical Engineering plays a crucial role in advancing technology, such as creating faster computer chips, developing innovative recycling methods, treating diseases, generating energy, and purifying water. This article explores the various topics included in the Chemical Engineering syllabus, offering a pathway to a rewarding and impactful career in this dynamic field.
Understanding Chemical Engineering
Chemical Engineering is a comprehensive discipline that merges principles from both the Natural and Experimental Sciences—such as Chemistry and Physics—with vital elements of the Life Sciences like Biology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry, as well as Mathematics and Economics. Professionals in this field are responsible for conceptualizing, designing, refining, and overseeing processes that transform basic raw materials into valuable end products.
Studying Chemical Engineering
To succeed in a Chemical Engineering program, students must possess a robust background in Chemistry and Mathematics, and familiarity with other scientific areas such as Physics, Biology, or Computer Science is also advantageous. Aspiring chemical engineers should display a deep comprehension of the field’s nature and its application in solving real-world problems.
Selection of Chemical Engineering Educational Tracks
For those aiming to elevate their professional trajectory in Chemical Engineering, numerous specialized educational paths are available. Consider the following academic degrees tailored for this discipline:
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
- Bachelor of Technology (BTech)
- Bachelor of Science (BS or BSc)
- Master of Engineering (MEng)
- Master of Technology (MTech)
- Master of Science (MS or MSc)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Each educational tier, be it undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral, presents a unique curriculum and varies in length.
Furthermore, here are some specialized diploma courses in Chemical Engineering, typically lasting between 2 and 3 years:
- Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology
- Advanced Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology
- Advanced Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology with a focus on Environmental issues
- Advanced Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology specializing in Laboratory and Process Control (CHLP)
- Advanced Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology (CHE3)
These diplomas provide focused, practical training tailored to the demands of the chemical engineering sector.
Eligibility Requirements
The prerequisites for Chemical Engineering courses vary depending on the specific program and the institution offering it. Here are the essential eligibility criteria to consider before enrolling in these courses:
For undergraduate diploma and degree programs in Chemical Engineering, candidates must have completed their senior secondary education, i.e., 12th grade, with Physics and Chemistry as mandatory subjects.
For postgraduate Chemical Engineering courses, applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Engineering, or hold a BTech/BSc in Chemical Engineering or a comparable qualification.
If you plan to pursue these programs internationally, you will need to provide language proficiency scores such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Additionally, submitting a well-crafted Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs) is highly recommended.
Course Duration
The length of Chemical Engineering programs varies by educational level and location. Typically, an undergraduate degree takes 3-4 years, a master’s degree lasts 1-2 years, and a PhD ranges from 3-5 years, depending on the country and university.
Curriculum in Chemical Engineering
The educational path in Chemical Engineering is designed to encompass a broad spectrum of core and elective subjects, stretching across diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Below, you’ll find a table that categorizes these subjects into core areas of focus and elective options, aimed at providing both fundamental and advanced knowledge in this field.
| Electives | Core Subjects |
|---|---|
| Food Technology | Thermodynamics |
| Ceramic Technology | Biochemical Engineering |
| Computational Fluid Dynamics | High Polymer Engineering |
| Water Treatment Technology | Environmental Engineering |
| Surface Coating | Safety Engineering |
| Bio-nanotechnology | Fluid Mechanics |
| Rubber Technology | Process Instrumentation |
| Industrial Pollution Control | Material Science and Engineering |
This arrangement illustrates the structured approach to learning in Chemical Engineering, ensuring students gain comprehensive expertise from general principles to specific technological applications.
Chemical Engineering Curriculum Overview
The curriculum for Chemical Engineering is designed to delve deeply into specific scientific and mathematical disciplines, enhancing the skills and knowledge necessary for a broad spectrum of projects within the field. Educational delivery in Chemical Engineering typically includes lectures, seminars, tutorials, hands-on laboratory sessions, both individual and group project work, and extensive computer-based sessions.
Many institutions also provide online courses and part-time study options for international students. The degree culminates with a significant research and development project or a comprehensive presentation. Below is an overview of the syllabus and subjects included in the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral Chemical Engineering programs:
BEng/BTech or BS/BSc in Chemical Engineering Syllabus
Students entering these programs usually have completed their 12th grade in the Science stream, bringing skills like strong problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and the capacity to interpret and evaluate data. These capabilities pave the way for success in Chemical Engineering. Here are the subjects typically taught in the BS/BEng or BTech in Chemical Engineering:
| Core Subjects | Laboratory and Practical Work |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Fluid Mechanics Lab |
| Computer Programming | Basic Electrical and Electronics Lab |
| Engineering Mechanics | Organic Chemistry Lab |
| Biochemical Engineering and Bioinformatics | Physical Chemistry Lab |
| Organic Chemistry | Mechanical Operations |
| Chemistry | Physics and Chemistry Lab |
| Metallurgy and Corrosion Engineering | – |
| Physics | – |
| Fluid Mechanics | – |
| Nanotechnology | – |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering | – |
| Paper Engineering | – |
| Thermodynamics | – |
| Plastic Engineering | – |
| Polymers | – |
| Textile Engineering | – |
| Biotechnology | – |
| Process Calculations | – |
| Fluid Flow Operations | – |
| Engineering Chemistry and Chemical Technology | – |
| Energy Engineering | – |
| Chemical Process Industries | – |
| Heat Transfer | – |
| Applied Mathematics | – |
| Water Technology | – |
| Mass Transfer | – |
| Mechanics of Solids | – |
| Environmental Science and Engineering | – |
| Heat Transfer Operations | – |
| Business Communications & Ethics | – |
| Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics | – |
| Process Equipment Design | – |
| Process Dynamics and Control | – |
| Oil Exploration and Refinery | – |
| Chemical Process Calculations | – |
| Technical Analysis Laboratory | – |
| Process Engineering | – |
| Pharmaceutical Engineering | – |
This structured approach equips students with a comprehensive understanding of Chemical Engineering principles, applied sciences, and the technological advancements necessary for professional success in the field.
Semester-by-Semester Chemical Engineering BTech/B.E/BSc Curriculum
Outlined below is a detailed semester-wise syllabus for the BTech in Chemical Engineering, as typically found in various academic institutions.
First Semester
Core Courses:
- Mathematics I
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Basic Civil & Mechanical Engineering
- Engineering Mechanics
- Communicative English
Laboratory Sessions:
- Physics Laboratory
- Chemistry Laboratory
- Workshop Practice
Second Semester
Core Courses:
- Mathematics II
- Material Science
- Environmental Science
- Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Engineering Thermodynamics
- Computer Programming
Laboratory Sessions:
- Computer Programming Laboratory
- Engineering Graphics
- Basic Electrical and Electronics Laboratory
Third Semester
Core Courses:
- Mathematics III
- Physical Chemistry
- Strength of Materials
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Process Calculations
- Momentum Transfer
Laboratory Sessions:
- Physical Chemistry Laboratory
- Strength of Materials Laboratory
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering Laboratory
Fourth Semester
Core Courses:
- Mathematics IV
- Organic Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
- Heat Transfer
- Mass Transfer
- Mechanical Operations
Laboratory Sessions:
- Organic Chemistry Laboratory
- Momentum Transfer Laboratory
- Chemical Engineering Drawing
Fifth Semester
Core Courses:
- Process Instrumentation
- Mass Transfer II
- Chemical Reaction Engineering
- Energy Technology and Management
- Chemical Process Industries
- Chemical Engineering Practice
Laboratory Sessions:
- Mass Transfer Laboratory I
- Heat Transfer Laboratory
- Chemical Operations Laboratory
- General Proficiency I
Sixth Semester
Core Courses:
- Numerical Methods and Special Functions
- Mass Transfer III
- Chemical Reaction Engineering II
- Process Design of Chemical Equipment
- Selective Electives I and II
Laboratory Sessions:
- Mass Transfer Laboratory II
- Chemical Reaction Engineering Laboratory
- Technical Analysis Laboratory
- General Proficiency II
Seventh Semester
Core Courses:
- Process Dynamics & Control
- Mechanical Design of Chemical Equipment
- Industrial Management
- Selective Electives III and IV
Laboratory Sessions:
- Computer-Aided Design Laboratory
- Project Phase I
- Seminar
- Industrial Visit/Training
Eighth Semester
Core Courses:
- Transport Phenomena
- Process Engineering Economics
- Pollution Control in Process Industries
- Selective Electives V and VI
Laboratory Sessions:
- Process Dynamics and Control Laboratory
- Project Phase II
- Comprehensive Viva Voce
- Professional Ethical Practice
Electives for Advanced Semesters
Electives for the Sixth Semester:
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Petroleum Refining Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Biochemical Engineering
Electives for the Seventh Semester:
- Polymer Science & Technology
- Petrochemical Technology
- Industrial Biotechnology
- Process Industry Risk and Safety Management
- Electrochemical Engineering
Electives for the Eighth Semester:
- Advanced Separation Techniques
- Process Design and Flow Sheeting
- Process Modeling and Simulation
- Chemical Process Optimization
- Environmental Technology Assessment and Clean Technology
This curriculum structure ensures that students receive an extensive education in both theoretical and practical aspects of Chemical Engineering, preparing them for diverse roles within the field.
Advanced Degrees in Chemical Engineering: MEng/MTech or MS/MSc Curriculum
Following their undergraduate studies, many students pursue advanced degrees in Chemical Engineering. The syllabus for a Master’s degree in this field encompasses a comprehensive range of specialized subjects:
- Optimization Techniques in Processes
- Enhanced Process Control
- Simulation and Modeling of Processes
- Management of Engineering Projects
- Methods for Research in Engineering
- Mathematical Techniques for Chemical Engineers
- Advanced Dynamics in Fluids
- Sophisticated Methods in Separation
- Progressive Reaction Engineering
- Elevated Transport Phenomena
- Techniques in Distillation
- Safety and Hazard Analysis
- Thermodynamics in Chemical Engineering
- High-Level Thermodynamics
- Engineering of Composite Materials
- Capstone Project
- Dissertation Research
This curriculum is structured to provide students with a deep and robust understanding of critical concepts and practices in Chemical Engineering, preparing them for high-level professional roles and research opportunities.
PhD in Chemical Engineering Syllabus
PhD candidates in Chemical Engineering utilize fundamental principles and advanced techniques in both analysis and experimentation to address complex research challenges. The subjects included in the PhD syllabus for Chemical Engineering are:
- Biological Systems Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Energy and Environmental Engineering
- Reactor Engineering
- Process Systems Engineering
- Transport Phenomena and Complex Fluids
Top Chemical Engineering Institutions in India
India is home to premier institutions offering Chemical Engineering programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. The leading colleges for Chemical Engineering in India include:
- Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay
- Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal
- SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
- Dayananda Sagar College of Engineering, Bangalore
- Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu
- RV College of Engineering, Bangalore
- Indian Institute of Technology, Madras
- Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar
- Delhi Technological University, New Delhi
These institutions are renowned for their rigorous Chemical Engineering programs and contribute significantly to the field through research and innovation.
Top 10 Chemical Engineering Colleges Internationally
Considering an international education? Studying at a foreign university offers a unique opportunity for global exposure, hands-on industry experience, and learning within a diverse cultural environment. Here are the premier institutions for Chemical Engineering around the world:
- University of California, Berkeley (UCB), USA
- University of Cambridge, UK
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore
- ETH Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Oxford, UK
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech), USA
- Imperial College London, UK
- Stanford University, USA
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
- Harvard University, USA
Essential Chemical Engineering Textbooks
Selecting the right textbooks is crucial for academic success and can be overwhelming given the vast array of options available. To ensure you choose effectively, here are some highly recommended Chemical Engineering texts:
- Unit Operations of Chemical Engineering by Julian Smith and Peter Harriott
- Dryden’s Outlines Of Chemical Technology by Rao and M Gopala
- Introduction to Chemical Engineering by Pushpavanam S
- Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics by Y.V.C. Rao
- Chemical Reaction Engineering, 3ed (WSE) by Octave Levenspiel
These books are invaluable resources for students pursuing studies in Chemical Engineering, providing foundational knowledge and advanced concepts in the field.
FAQs on Chemical Engineering
What are the compulsory subjects in the Chemical Engineering syllabus?
The core subjects in a Chemical Engineering course may vary based on the program. Typically, essential subjects include environmental science, physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
What specializations are available in Chemical Engineering?
Specializations within Chemical Engineering include fields such as Food, Ceramics, and Petroleum.
What subjects are covered in the first semester of B.E. Chemical Engineering?
The initial semester typically covers Chemistry, Physics, Economics, Calculus, Computer Programming, and Mathematics.
What are the academic requirements for pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering?
To enroll in a bachelor’s program in Chemical Engineering, candidates must have completed their 10+2 education. For a master’s program, a relevant undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is required.
Which institutions are renowned for Chemical Engineering?
Top institutions for Chemical Engineering include Stanford, Harvard, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA.
Which countries offer the highest salaries for Chemical Engineers?
Chemical Engineers tend to receive the highest salaries in countries like the USA, Switzerland, Japan, and Germany.
Final Thoughts
Chemical Engineering encompasses the design, optimization, and operation of processes and equipment for large-scale chemical, biological, and related manufacturing. Professionals in this field apply chemical sciences to convert raw materials into valuable products, making Chemical Engineering a highly sought-after and rewarding career path for those interested in leveraging scientific discoveries to practical applications.