The UCT BSc in Chemical Engineering is focused on the success and development of graduates who are prepared for the challenges of the 21st century chemical engineering.

The 4-year undergraduate degree prepares graduates for careers in the chemical, metallurgical, biotechnological and other process industries. It is fully accredited by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) and recognised throughout the world in terms of the Washington Accord.

The degree design is unique in Africa and is informed by cutting edge international developments in engineering education.

Our teaching centres on a philosophy of hands-on learning and the development of technical expertise, problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills.

  • Students apply learnt theory to design projects based on real-world problems as well as through practical training using laboratory and pilot scale equipment. We challenge students to use their skills of observation and reasoning to develop a working understanding of the underlying phenomena.

Students also customise their degrees according to their individual interests.

  • The final degree can be focused towards minerals processing, bio-process engineering, catalytic processing, process modelling, or environmental process engineering.

Our undergraduate programme promotes student learning and personal development, with staff providing a caring and supportive environment.

We are passionate about the success of our students. Our open-door policy combines with personalised academic counselling, the ASPECT programme for educationally disadvantaged students and an ongoing process of curriculum review. In line with the Department’s philosophy of engagement, experienced postgraduate students assist as tutors in the undergraduate programme.

For more information on what Chemical Engineering is and why to come and study it at UCT, watch our Virtual Open Day presentation here: