This broad degree covers the steps in a product's creation, from chemistry through to economics. Chemical engineers design, create and optimise the systems and equipment used in chemical, industrial, biological and environmental processes, producing a range of materials, like fuels, fertilisers, foods, wine, polymers and pharmaceuticals.

Chemical Engineering bridges the study of the chemical and physical sciences with engineering. You'll learn how to design and develop chemical processes and equipment, optimise and control industrial operations, plan plant operations, tailor management strategies, work with nanoparticles, look into environmental effects and pollution control, and more. Management, critical analysis and economics are key components of your training.

Why study this degree at UNSW?

The latest 2023 QS World University Rankings awarded UNSW as the top engineering faculty in Australia and #49 in the world. UNSW is known for its graduate employability, UNSW placed in the AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. Australia’s top employers prefer UNSW Engineering graduates over any other university and we’re ranked 29th in the world for employer reputation.

The School of Chemical Engineering was set up with industry in mind. We have close links to industry leaders and companies in the field of engineering to ensure our research and education are in line with industry requirements and real-world demand. We work hand in hand with Bluescope Steel, Sydney Water, Veolia and many other companies through sponsored projects, consulting and graduate recruitment.

All students?undertake?industrial training as part of our undergraduate degrees. This means that you’ll graduate with first-hand experience?in a professional organisation. Industrial training will provide you with a range of?networking opportunities and?engineering experience in design, analysis, experimental and on-site activities.

When you study at UNSW Engineering you can take part in ChallEng, real-world, project-based learning initiatives. This award-winning program is made up of Vertically Integrated Projects, The Maker Games, Student Projects and Social Impact. You’ll connect with students, academics and industry to develop sought-after technical and professional skills for your future career as an Engineering professional.

Make a difference to disadvantaged communities through our Humanitarian Engineering projects, electives and minors on offer. Humanitarian Engineering works to provide disadvantaged individuals and communities with engineering solutions that improve lives and livelihoods. These solutions may provide essential services such as food, water, shelter, energy and information where they are unavailable.

At UNSW Engineering you’ll benefit from a diverse and welcoming community with plenty to keep you busy. UNSW Engineering boasts 16 student societies including a society for each school. Get involved in Queer Students in Stem, Women in Renewable Energy Society or Robogals. UNSW’s Women in Engineering (WIE) society runs social and industry events as well as programs designed to mentor and develop female engineers.