University of Melbourne

What you'll study

The programme builds on undergraduate engineering fundamentals and typically combines core coursework, elective specialisations and a capstone design or research project. Core topics include transport phenomena, chemical reaction engineering, thermodynamics, separation processes, process control and optimisation, process safety and risk management, and engineering mathematics for modelling and simulation.

Students can choose electives and specialisations that reflect current industry and research strengths, such as sustainable and low‑carbon processing, biochemical and biomedical engineering, materials and nanotechnology, energy systems, and advanced process modelling and data analytics. Practical components often include laboratory work, pilot‑plant demonstrations, computer modelling and a major design or research project that integrates technical, economic and safety considerations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Candidates with a strong bachelor’s degree in a related physical science or engineering field plus substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered. Prior coursework should demonstrate competence in mathematics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, and basic thermodynamics.

Admission typically requires academic transcripts and a statement of purpose; referees and evidence of relevant professional experience strengthen applications where academic prerequisites differ from chemical engineering. International applicants must meet the University of Melbourne’s English language requirements through an approved test or equivalent evidence of prior tertiary study in English.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of sectors where chemical engineering expertise is applied. Common career destinations include process and plant engineering, research and development in chemicals, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, energy and petrochemicals, water and environmental engineering, materials and advanced manufacturing, and consultancy. Graduates also progress to roles in project management, technical sales, regulatory compliance and safety management, or continue to doctoral research and academic careers.

The degree emphasises transferable skills valued by employers: systems thinking, numerical modelling, process design, experimental methods, risk assessment and interdisciplinary teamwork. Strong links between the University and industry provide opportunities for internships, project partnerships and networking with employers across Australia and internationally.

Why study at University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers chemical engineering teaching and research within a highly active engineering faculty, with access to modern laboratories, pilot‑scale facilities and computing resources for process simulation and data analytics. The teaching blends rigorous theoretical training with hands‑on practice and industry‑facing projects, reflecting current challenges such as decarbonisation, circular economy approaches and bio‑based manufacturing.

Students benefit from the University’s strong research groups and multidisciplinary collaborations across materials, energy systems, environmental engineering and biomedical engineering, as well as established partnerships with industry and research institutions. The Melbourne campus environment also provides professional development, entrepreneurship support and extensive alumni networks to help launch graduate careers.