Together with the specialist scientific knowledge gained from a degree in chemical engineering, the project and resource management, health & safety procedures and communication, leadership and IT skills all combine to make you a very employable graduate in a range of industries. Chemical engineers play a crucial role in everyday life given it is based on an understanding of how to change raw materials into useful products in a safe and cost-effective way. The manufacturing of mobile phones, the production of chocolate bars and the harnessing of nuclear energy all involve the input of chemical engineers to give you an indication of the scope of your career prospects.

In manufacturing, chemical engineers might work with others to design machinery, equipment and quality control instruments for the production process at a factory and oversee the day-to-day operation the plant itself. This combination of design, build and supervision is commonplace for chemical engineers working in other areas such as the energy industries.

In research and development, chemical engineers are involved in lab tests to make new products and streamline production methods. The disposal of by-products and waste materials in a safe and environmentally-friendly way is also a key concern.

Many chemical engineering graduates may choose to opt for a more theoretical-based career, perhaps as a consultant to firms or in business and management. For those who want to take their learning further, a postgraduate degree can lead to more specialist work or on a path into academia.

The pay tends to be very competitive, earning on average £49,500. Starting salaries tend to be around the £24,000 mark, rising to an average of £60,000 for Chartered Chemical Engineers – the leading professionals in the field.