Department of Process Engineering and Applied Science

Faculty of Engineering

BEng in Chemical Engineering

Current students

Design and develop for a vast array of industries

Chemical Engineering combines the principles of mathematics, chemistry and physics with engineering practices in order to improve the human environment. Chemical engineers deal with the transformation of raw materials into products we use every day – from soaps and cosmetics to plastics and food processing. Chemical Engineers have been long been regarded as the most versatile of all engineers; yet many opportunities exist to specialize in a particular area.

Your first two years of study

The first and second years* of study are common to all engineering students. You will choose to focus on a specific engineering discipline in your third year of study. Learn more about the core engineering program.

Program options

You may choose to complete the 5-year Co-op Program or the 4-year Non Co-op Program.
Co-op students take the same academic program as the non co-op program; however, our co-op option gives you an opportunity to complement your studies with three paid work terms.

Learn more about each option:

Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Chemical Engineering - Co-op Program (5 years)

Gain invaluable real-world experience and pay for your studies at the same time.

Our Bachelor of Engineering Co-operative Education program integrates academic study with university-approved industrial experience. Graduation from this program requires satisfactory performance in both areas.

As a co-op student, you will complement your studies with three paid work terms. Work terms begin in your third year and typically last four months.

Co-op program schedule

Year Fall Winter Summer
1 Study Term 1 Study Term 2
 Free
2 Study Term 3
 Study Term 4
 Free
3 Work Term 1 Study Term 5
 Work Term 2
4 Study Term 6 Work Term 3
 Work Term 4
5 Study Term 7
 Study Term 8
  

Program curriculum

Years 1 and 2 follow the core Engineering program. See the For Current Students section to view the full program curriculum.

How to apply for co-op

You must be a current Dalhousie student to apply for co-op. Visit the For Current Students section for information on applying to co-op.

Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Chemical Engineering - Non Co-op Program (4 years)

Non co-op students take the same academic program as the co-op students; however, Study Term 6 may be taken before Study Term 5, if desired. In this way, the program can be done in a total of four years.

Year Fall Winter Summer
1 Study Term 1 Study Term 2
 Free
2 Study Term 3
 Study Term 4
 Free
3 Study Term 5
 Study Term 6
 Free
4 Study Term 7
 Study Term 8
  

Program curriculum

The curriculum is designed to develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of Chemical Engineering through lecture, tutorial, and laboratory activities. Visit the For Current Students section to view the full program curriculum.


Associated University program

Students who have completed the degree requirements for a Diploma of Engineering or a Certificate of Applied Science through the Associated University program are admissible to the Upper Division in the Faculty of Engineering.

What can I do with a degree in Chemical Engineering?

Chemical Engineering prepares you for a variety of careers in the chemical and process industries, including:

  • Production and Utilization of Energy
  • Environmental Management and Technologies
  • Pulp and Paper
  • Advanced Materials
  • Production and Utilization of Chemicals
  • Plastics Production and Processing
  • Food Processing
  • Rubber Industry
  • Consulting
  • Metallurgical Operations
  • Biotechnology
  • Instrumentation Development and Marketing
  • Development and Manufacture of Medical Devices
  • Government
  • Patent Law