University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This distance-learning master's builds on core chemical engineering principles and emphasises advanced topics in process systems engineering, separation and reaction engineering, process safety and optimisation. Study is delivered through structured online modules, supported learning materials and one-to-one supervision for the project component.

• Core modules: advanced process design and simulation, process dynamics and control, advanced transport phenomena, and process safety and risk assessment.
• Specialist modules: multicomponent separation and membrane processes, reactor engineering for complex systems, process modelling and optimisation, and computational methods for chemical engineers.
• Professional and research skills: engineering economics, project management, data analytics for process industries and technology commercialisation.
• Research project or dissertation: an extended individual or industry-linked project that applies advanced engineering methods to a practical problem; projects typically use process simulation tools, experimental data or optimisation algorithms and are supervised by academic staff with industrial experience.
• Flexible exit routes: the programme commonly permits staged completion as a Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma for students who do not complete the full MSc.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree in chemical engineering or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a lower second-class degree plus relevant industrial experience, or a primary degree in a related science or engineering subject combined with professional experience, may also be considered.

Typical requirements and considerations include:

• an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering, process engineering, chemistry, or a related engineering subject;
• relevant work experience in process industries is advantageous for distance-learning applicants and can strengthen an application;
• evidence of numeracy and computing competence; familiarity with process simulation or programming is desirable but not mandatory;
• international applicants must meet English language requirements as specified by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates progress to a wide range of professional roles in process industries, energy, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food and beverage, and environmental sectors. The programme prepares students for positions such as process engineer, design engineer, process development engineer, operations manager, safety and risk specialist, and technical consultant.

The advanced modelling, optimisation and safety training is also valuable for roles in digitalisation of process plants, process intensification projects, and research and development. Some graduates use the MSc as a route to doctoral study or to attain professional registration with engineering institutions.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde has a long-established reputation in chemical and process engineering teaching and research, with strong links to industry across the UK and internationally. The department combines applied research expertise with practical industry experience, ensuring teaching is informed by contemporary process challenges.

The distance-learning format offers flexible study patterns designed for working professionals, with dedicated academic support, access to online learning resources and opportunities to undertake industry-relevant projects. The programme benefits from the university’s extensive engineering facilities, research centres and an industrial advisory ethos that helps students build professional networks while they study.