University of Bradford

What you'll study

This master's combines core chemical engineering principles with specialist petroleum engineering topics. You will study advanced process design and optimisation, transport phenomena, advanced thermodynamics, reaction engineering and separation processes alongside petroleum-focused modules such as reservoir engineering, well and production engineering, and enhanced hydrocarbon recovery methods. Teaching typically mixes lectures, tutorials and laboratory and computer-based practicals using process-modelling and simulation software; a substantial individual research project or dissertation allows you to apply techniques to an engineering problem with industrial relevance.

• Advanced process design and simulation
• Transport phenomena and advanced fluid mechanics
• Reaction engineering and catalytic processes
• Separation technology and unit operations
• Petroleum reservoir engineering and fluid flow in porous media
• Well engineering, production operations and facilities
• Enhanced oil and gas recovery and subsurface engineering
• Process safety, risk assessment and environmental considerations
• Research project/dissertation based on laboratory, modelling or industry-linked work

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in chemical, petroleum, mechanical or process engineering, or a closely related applied science subject. A UK second-class honours degree (2:2) or international equivalent is a typical requirement; applicants with relevant industrial experience or professional qualifications may also be considered. All applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English to a level acceptable to the university; further details are available from the admissions team. Applicants may be asked to provide academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining relevant experience and objectives, and references.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for technical and professional roles across the process and energy sectors. Typical career paths include process and plant design engineer, reservoir or production engineer in upstream oil and gas, process development or optimisation roles in petrochemicals and chemical manufacturing, operations and maintenance management, safety and environmental compliance, and technical consultancy. The programme also provides a foundation for further research or doctoral study in areas such as subsurface engineering, process systems engineering and sustainable energy technologies.

Why study at University of Bradford

The University of Bradford hosts established engineering departments with a focus on practical, industry-relevant education and applied research. Students benefit from laboratory and pilot-scale facilities, access to process-modelling software, and opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and research groups working on energy and process challenges. The programme emphasises employability through applied project work and links with regional and international engineering employers, making it well suited to those aiming to progress technical careers in chemical and petroleum engineering.