Chemical engineering : Your skills

A chemical engineering degree develops many skills that are valued not only by engineering employers but also by those in a variety of sectors, including financial services, management and information technology.

In addition to specific technical knowledge, a chemical engineering degree also provides a sound theoretical basis for introducing new technology and advancing existing technology to enhance current practice. You also gain an appreciation of the global and societal context in which engineering solutions are applied, and an awareness of relevant contemporary issues. This leads to an understanding of ethical and professional responsibilities, and the constraints within which your engineering judgement will be exercised.

As an engineering graduate you will also be a good problem solver and have an ability to analyse, interpret and evaluate data and develop ideas, making you attractive to a wide range of engineering and business-related roles.

The project management skills you acquire during your group design work will allow you to manage real life projects from conception to completion. Working in a team will also give you great exposure to the advantages and challenges of teamwork, as well as preparing you to take on supervisory roles.

Your experience of carrying out research on your own and writing it up will demonstrate your initiative and attention to detail.

Communication skills developed through teamwork and presenting your research project will also give you invaluable experience for a graduate career.

Consider the skills developed on your course as well as through your other activities, such as paid work, volunteering, family responsibilities, sport, membership of societies, leadership roles, etc. Think about how these can be used as evidence of your skills and personal attributes. Then you can start to market and sell who you really are, identify what you may be lacking and consider how to improve your profile. Take a look at job application advice for some useful tips.