Chemical engineering is the design, development, production, transformation, transportion, operation and management of the industrial processes that turn raw materials into valuable products. It is a multi-disciplinary branch of engineering that combines natural and experimental sciences (such as chemistry and physics), along with life sciences (such as biology, microbiology and biochemistry) plus mathematics and economics.
Courses in chemical engineering are made up of lectures, tutorials, seminars, computer practice sessions, practical laboratory work and both individual and group work. Site visits and classes by industry professionals may also form part of the course. Many courses include work placements and a year in industry to equip graduates for tools to succeed in the industry.
Because chemical engineering is a developing study subject, the curriculum changes and adapts with it.
Graduates with a degree in chemical engineering typically have a focus in one of the two sub-areas, but will need both to successfully do their jobs.
Bioengineering is the application of engineering and natural science principles regarding tissues, cells and molecules. It is a combination of knowledge and methods from the areas biology, natural sciences, engineering and medicine. It is an interdisciplinary study programme that contributes to the development of medical devices, diagnostic equipment, environmental engineering, process engineering and overall improves the standard of living for society. Working with physicians, clinicians and researchers, bioengineers use traditional engineering principles and techniques to study biological processes, including ways to replace, improve, maintain or predict chemical and mechanical processes.
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