University College London, University of London

Programme overview

This is a research degree in chemical engineering at UCL Engineering that develops specialist expertise from molecular scales to complex systems. Research spans next-generation process and product manufacturing, energy and sustainability, materials and future health systems. Students join one or more departmental research groups and work with academic and industrial partners across UCL and internationally. The programme is offered full-time or part-time; the full-time duration is 3 calendar years and UK tuition fees for 2026/27 are listed as £6,400. Start dates include October, February and May, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis (submitted at least three months before preferred start date).

What you'll study

Students undertake a programme of independent research under primary and secondary supervisors, supported by departmental training and seminars. Research activity is organised within the department’s groups:

• Catalysis & Reaction Engineering
• Electrochemical Engineering
• Molecular & Engineering Thermodynamics
• Multiphase Systems and Product & Process Systems Engineering

Research projects address the themes of Energy and CO2, Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing, and Health and Environment. Candidates also take training courses from the UCL Doctoral School, attend departmental seminars and related activities, and may engage in industry-led projects or collaborations with research centres such as the Sargent Centre for Process Systems Engineering, UCL CoMPLEX and the UCL Materials Chemistry Centre.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold one of the following: a UK master’s degree in a relevant discipline with Merit or above; an MEng from a UK university with upper second-class or above; or an overseas qualification of equivalent standard. English language requirements and ATAS statement guidance apply. International equivalencies are provided by UCL and applicants should consult Graduate Admissions for advice if required.

Career prospects

Graduates have moved into industrial research and technical roles across sectors such as sustainable engineering, energy, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and finance, as well as academic posts. Employer examples from departmental reporting include organisations like Shell UK Exploration and Production, AMEC, Petrofac, Sun Chemical, Procter & Gamble and major banks; many graduates also secure academic positions at research universities.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Funding opportunities for research students typically include departmental scholarships, doctoral training partnerships and external studentships; prospective applicants should review UCL and departmental pages for current studentship competitions, statement requirements (e.g. ATAS where relevant) and application deadlines, and contact Graduate Admissions for guidance on funding routes.