The purpose of this programme of mathematical study is to ensure that students are competent in calculations using a range of mathematical tools. The content will extend the student’s analytical skills by introducing more advanced topics that are required parts of the modern engineers skill set, and enhance their ability and confidence to make sound judgements.

Mathematics and Modelling

• Statistical methods; distribution, sampling, statistical inference, estimation from a sample, hypothesis testing, significance testing.
• Matrix Eigen value problems, with application to solutions of Ordinary Differential Equations.
• Laplace transforms for solution of Ordinary Differential Equations.
• Fourier series approximation of periodic functions.
• Solution techniques for partial differential equations including the heat equation.

Numerical Modelling and Computation

• Construction of algorithms in high-level programming languages including, variables, arrays, operators and expressions, data input and output, flow control and functions.
• Implementation of numerical methods using MATLAB.
• Numerical solution of ordinary differential evolution equations using Euler's method and the Runge-Kutta methods.
• Introduction to Optimization; Optimisation of functions of several variables, with and without constraints.
• Representation of engineering problems as mathematical optimisation problems and solution using Excel Solver.

This module covers two of the core topics in chemical engineering - thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Thermodynamics is the science that deals with energy interactions in physical systems. The purpose of this module is to extend the basic principles of heat, work and energy then apply this knowledge to real engineering problems, and also to introduce chemical thermodynamics - the interaction of heat and work with changes of state and chemical reaction. The understanding of fluid mechanics is fundamental to much of chemical engineering, and this module seeks to develop and extend relevant knowledge of fluid mechanics to the point that real world problems can be addressed. Almost every branch of science and engineering includes some kind of heat transfer problem, and there is a need for engineers to have some background in this area. This module further develops students’ understanding of heat transfer, including practical applications of conduction, convection and radiation heat transfer.

Separation processes is perhaps the defining part of the chemical engineering curriculum. This module introduces design methods and practice for a range of key unit operations for  separation of different components. An aim of this module is to build on the concepts of equilibrium and mass transfer driving force developed in level 4 in order to build knowledge and understanding of equilibrium stage operations for downstream refining and purification operations. Another aim of this module is to give students the appropriate methods and equations to analyse and design continuous and batch equipment for chemical and physical separations.

Flowsheet Analysis and Process Integration

• Concept of Unit Operations as components making up process flowsheets.
• Process flow diagram and P&I diagrams.
• Measured and manipulated process variables.
• Principles of mass balances for complex flowsheets with recycles.
• Energy balances, hot and cold utilities and concept of heat integration.
• Pinch analysis for determination of minimum energy targets.
• Design of heat exchanger networks.
• Conceptual extension of process integration to mass transfer networks. 

Process Simulation

• Simulation principles.
• Use of PRO/II for solving engineering problems and analysing the results.
• Thermodynamic methods: available models, selection criteria.
• Building a flowsheet and Managing Process Flow Diagram (PFD) files.
• Simulation of various processes.

Dimensional Analysis and Scale-up

• Examples of physical systems amenable to dimensional analysis: e.g. falling sphere, mass/heat transfer.
• Outline of Buckingham’s Pi Theorem.
• Use of engineering correlations for scale-up.
• Maximising inherent safety for scale-up.  

In this module, you will have the opportunity to put theory into practice and build essential skills for your future career by gaining invaluable real-world experience through a range of experiential activities (e.g., volunteering, workplace engagement, research projects, field trip (where available and dependent on course), or through a combination of activities). You will develop practical, analytical, and professional skills relevant to your subject, while also enhancing transferable skills that are vital in any graduate-level role. 

Through hands-on experiences, you will critically reflect on your personal and professional growth, using these insights to shape your career path and identify areas for continued development. You'll take ownership of your learning, ensuring that you can effectively articulate your employability skills in a professional context, and be well-prepared for the workplace. This module empowers you to explore new environments, apply your knowledge, and discover how your academic training translates into real-world impact, boosting your confidence and work readiness. 

It is your responsibility to organise any experience undertaken outside of the university as part of this module although you will be provided with support from university staff.

All activities within this module must be university-level; this means:  

• Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc.)  
• Meeting the professional expectations of the experiential activities you undertake 
• Where applicable, your existing part-time employer can be approached/used as an experiential activity provider, if the role aligns with your career development and provides you with high skilled work commensurate with level 5 study. 

In this module, you will have the opportunity to put theory into practice and build essential skills for your future career by gaining invaluable real-world experience through a structured, university-level work placement for 4, 5 or 7 weeks as one continuous block / period with a placement provider (i.e. a local employer from the private, public, or charitable sector). You will develop practical, analytical, and professional skills relevant to your subject, while also enhancing transferable skills that are vital in any graduate-level role. Therefore this module will enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.

Through hands-on experiences, you will critically reflect on your personal and professional growth, using these insights to shape your career path and identify areas for continued development. You'll take ownership of your learning, ensuring that you can effectively articulate your employability skills in a professional context, and be well-prepared for the workplace. This module empowers you to explore new environments, apply your knowledge, and discover how your academic training translates into real-world impact, boosting your confidence and work readiness.

It is your responsibility to organise the placement as part of this module although you will be provided with support from university staff.

All work placements within this module must be university-level; this means:

• Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc.)
• Physically placed (albeit part of it can be hybrid) within an employer setting in one continuous block / period for 4, 5 or 7 weeks for a minimum of 140-147 hours over the course of the entire work placement
• Where applicable, your existing part-time employer can be approached/used as the placement provider, if the high-skilled work criterion above is fulfilled for the full duration of the placement.
• All quality assurances/agreements provided by the University are adhered to, by you and the employer.

The work placement context may not necessarily, reflect your degree discipline per se, but rather, it will give you an enriched experience to enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.

Choose one of the following:

1. Professional Placement (40 Credits) Optional
2. Term abroad (40 Credits) Optional
3. One of the following Language options

Advanced Language Development and Global Sustainability (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at advanced level. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a sustainability issue in a target language country. The first half of the module will prepare you for placements abroad where appropriate as well as a deeper understanding of sustainability in target language contexts. 

Developing Intercultural Literacy and Cross-Cultural Skills (40 Credits) Optional

• The multiple facets of global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication
• Culture shock
• Cultural adjustment
• Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
• Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
• Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
• Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Experiential Overseas Learning (40 Credits) Optional

Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the University of Chester during level 5 and will include:  

• The multiple facets of Global citizenship
• Ethical engagement and practice
• Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
• Intercultural communication
• Theories, models and strategies of learning

Theories and models Intercultural competence

• Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
• Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection
• Experiential learning models
• Self-directed experiential learning

Personal and placement-related skills

• Enhanced independence
• Improved command of multicultural behaviour
• Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
• Effective time management and organisational skills
• Project management – working away from University and independent study
• Self-management and personal development
• Team building and team work

Part B: Overseas

Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours 

Post Beginner Language Development and Global Cultures (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at beginner level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a cultural issue in a target language country. 

Upper Intermediate Language Development and Global Employability (40 Credits) Optional

The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at intermediate level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes an placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a business or tourism issue in a target language country. 

Or you can choose ONE of the following:

• University Placement Year Optional
• Subject Placement Year Optional
• International University Placement Year Optional