Schemes of Study

Levels One and Two are common to both BEng and MEng degree schemes. This provides flexibility to allow for informed transfers to be made between them at the end of Level Two.

Level One

Modules provide a broad introduction to topics relevant to Process Engineering because these have relevance to resource management, especially of spent materials and wastes. These are supported by modules in mathematics (engineering analysis), chemistry and materials.  An introduction to general problems associated with sustainability in relation to the rapid increases in the human populations set the scene and establish the need for this branch of engineering.

Level Two

Modules extend and develop relevant aspects of process engineering and apply the tools of analysis developed at Level 1 to a critical appraisal of the environmental impacts of processes and products in use and entering the market place. These focus primarily on the requirements for shelter and power for transportation and the home. All aspects of the development of sustainable engineering solutions are presented so that consideration is given to the local social and economic circumstances. Problems associated with food and agriculture in developing countries are considered. Modules in fluid flow, biochemical engineering, instrumentation and control and statistical and computational methods provide additional background information and support.

Level Three

Subjects are advanced through both lectures and project work. The knowledge of environmental engineering in terms of environmental impact and analysis, separation processes, safety and economics is supplemented by more specialised knowledge of the physics of mass and energy transfer. An introduction to fuel cells technology provides an insight into an alternative to direct fuel combustion engines. In the BEng scheme these are supported by visits to industrial processes, and both research and design projects or direct relevance to sustainable resource management.

In the MEng scheme the design project is deferred to Level 4 and replaced by Environmental Modelling.

Level M

This presents advanced study of physical, chemical and biological processing of waste materials for production and recovery of valuable materials and energy. It includes the management of water supply and its treatment when soiled. Environmental legislation, recycling technologies and power generation systems complement these. Aspects of the science of interfaces and colloidal systems, common to almost all environments, is used to identify potential risks of release of synthetic nanoparticles.  Each module is presented within two weeks to provide an in-depth knowledge and thorough appreciation of the subject. Industrial visits at Level 3 will provide case studies for a design project, to be pursued thoughout both Semesters, aimed to produce both environmental and economic advantages.

Accreditation

The courses are being submitted for accreditation by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE). Accreditation is based on regular, rigorous reviews of our course content, delivery and results by this professional body. This means, that after a degree from the School of Engineering and structured industrial training, graduates are eligible for the prized “Chartered Engineer” status.

Career Prospects

A wide range of rewarding career opportunities exist in the private and public sectors, and in health, safety and environment agencies. The demand for environmental engineering graduates remains high with excellent starting salaries offered to graduates. There is also demand from many other industries and new, small-to-medium enterprises find that they need technical expertise from this discipline to solve process problems and to manage their environmental interface.

International Students

We welcome applications from international students to either Levels One or Two. Those who have completed an equivalent Level One accredited scheme in Chemical or Civil Engineering with a minimum score of 55% will be eligible for direct entry to Level Two of the BEng schemes with the option to transfer to the MEng scheme at Level Three.