Explore UCD

UCD Home >

Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering  (NQS2)

BE (NFQ Level 8) · Academic Year 2025/2026
School
School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering
Attendance
Full Time
Level
Undergraduate
NFQ Level
8
Award
Bachelor of Engineering
Mode of Delivery
On Campus
Programme Director
Assoc Professor Damian Mooney
Overall Programme Credits:
240
Programme Credits:
Stage 1
Core/Option: 55 Electives: 5
Stage 2
Core/Option: 50 Electives: 10
Stage 3
Core/Option: 55 Electives: 5
Stage 4
Core/Option: 55 Electives: 5
Major/Minor Core & Option Credits:
Stage 2: 50
Stage 3: 55
Stage 4: 55

Curricular information is subject to change.

Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering (CBE) deals with the ingenious transformation of matter and energy into products and services with the aim of maximising the benefit for all. More specifically, it addresses the design, operation and management of facilities needed to achieve this transformation in a technically, economically and environmentally appropriate manner. Examples of products include petrochemicals, (bio)pharmaceuticals, vaccines and nanomaterials. Examples of services include energy supply (from carbon-based to renewable resources), clean air and CO2 -sequestration.

Our objective is to offer an internationally-accredited, integrated masters-level degree in Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering.



The Integrated ME degree programme in Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering, operating at the interface between engineering and the basic sciences, seeks to develop ethical Engineers capable of assuming roles of responsibility within the Chemical Engineering and allied sectors in Ireland and internationally.



Engineering values good judgment, achieved by the critical application of mathematical and scientific principles, integrated into a framework of best practice, imbued with good social, environmental and ethical principles. UCD Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering graduates are prepared to meet these demands, through the structure and content of the degree programme.



We foster an environment of engaged learning, using both traditional and novel teaching methods, supported by experience and evidence-based research. There are structured opportunities for students to study and practice as individuals and also in small groups, with ample opportunity for constructive feedback.  Where appropriate, learning is embedded with state-of-the-art knowledge derived from staff research activities and expertise.


1 - PO1. Knowledge and Understanding Advanced knowledge and understanding of the mathematics, sciences, data science, analytics, and other technologies underpinning Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering.
2 - PO2. Problem Analysis The ability to identify, formulate and analyse complex Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering problems.
3 - PO3. Design The ability to design innovative solutions to complex Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering problems.
4 - PO4. Investigation The ability to investigate, experiment and apply standard and specialised research methods.
5 - PO5. Professional and Ethical Responsibilities Understanding of and commitment to professional and ethical responsibilities towards people and the environment in the practice of engineering.
6 - PO6. Teamwork and Lifelong Learning The ability to work effectively independently and in diverse and inclusive teams, and to prepare for lifelong learning.
7 - PO7. Communication The ability to communicate effectively on complex engineering activities to diverse audiences.
8 - PO8. Engineering Management Knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles and financial decision-making relevant to Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering and an ability to apply these to one’s own work and to the management of projects.

Students have the opportunity in their third year to spend either one or two trimesters studying abroad in a partner University. There are options to study in countries such as the UK, Australia, Canada, USA, Singapore and New Zealand.

UCD has the oldest, largest and most research-active School of Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering in Ireland and is benchmarked competitively against the top schools in Europe and abroad. Our graduates are among the best-paid engineering professionals and sought after for employment in sectors from chemical to (bio)pharmaceutical and from energy to consultancy and design. We offer taught and research Masters and PhD opportunities, and our graduates also enter Masters and PhD programmes in leading international universities.

Both the BE and ME degrees are accredited at the Masters level by the Institution of Chemical Engineers, while our ME has also achieved Masters level accreditation by Engineers Ireland.

UCD Engineering and Architecture College Office

Tel: +353 1 716 1916
e. katie.oneill@ucd.ie

Stage 2

IMPORTANT NOTE - STAGE 2 OPTIONS: Students intending to pursue the BE Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering (Non-Minor) Programme are required to select: CHEM20070 Inorganic & Physical Chemistry for Engineers. Students intending to pursue the BE Chemical Engineering (with Biochemical Engineering Minor) are required to select: CHEN20090 Biotechnology Principles. Students who are undecided may take either of these modules as an Additional Option module. ********** STAGE 2 IMPORTANT NOTE: In order to meet professional accreditation requirements, CHEN10010 Chem Eng Proc Principles must be taken as an Additonal Option module if not taken in Stage 1.

Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.

Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.

Module Type Module   Trimester Credits
Stage 2 Core Modules
 CHEN20020 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering Measurement Autumn  5
Stage 2 Core Modules
 CHEN20030 Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics & Kinetics Autumn  5
Stage 2 Core Modules
 CHEN20050 Bioprocess Engineering Principles Autumn  5
Stage 2 Core Modules
 CHEN20080 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering Laboratory 1 Autumn  10
Stage 2 Core Modules
 MATH20290 Multivariable Calculus for Eng Autumn  5
Stage 2 Core Modules
 CHEM20060 Organic Chemistry for Engineers Spring  5
Stage 2 Core Modules
 CHEN20060 Transport Phenomena Spring  5
Stage 2 Core Modules
 CHEN20070 Computers in Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering Spring  5
Stage 2 Options - A)1 of:
IMPORTANT NOTE - STAGE 2 OPTIONS: Students intending to pursue the BE Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering (Non-Minor) Programme are required to select: CHEM20070 Inorganic & Physical Chemistry for Engineers. Students intending to pursue the BE Chemical Engineering (with Biochemical Engineering Minor) are required to select: CHEN20090 Biotechnology Principles. Students who are undecided may take either of these modules as an Additional Option module.********** STAGE 2 ELECTIVES: IMPORTANT NOTE: In order to meet professional accreditation requirements, CHEN10010 Chem Eng Proc Principles must be taken as an Additional Option module in Spring if not taken in Stage 1.
 CHEM20070 Inorganic & Physical Chemistry for Engineers Spring  5
Stage 2 Options - A)1 of:
IMPORTANT NOTE - STAGE 2 OPTIONS: Students intending to pursue the BE Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering (Non-Minor) Programme are required to select: CHEM20070 Inorganic & Physical Chemistry for Engineers. Students intending to pursue the BE Chemical Engineering (with Biochemical Engineering Minor) are required to select: CHEN20090 Biotechnology Principles. Students who are undecided may take either of these modules as an Additional Option module.********** STAGE 2 ELECTIVES: IMPORTANT NOTE: In order to meet professional accreditation requirements, CHEN10010 Chem Eng Proc Principles must be taken as an Additional Option module in Spring if not taken in Stage 1.
 CHEN20090 Biotechnology Principles Spring  5
Stage 2 Options - B) Min 0 of:
All Stage 2 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering students may select two Elective Modules, both in the Spring Trimester, to ensure a balanced workload of 30 credits per Trimester. However, if preferred, students may select other Modules related to Engineering by choosing one or two of the following ADDITIONAL OPTION Modules, to give a total workload of 30 credits per Trimester. IMPORTANT: In order to meet professional accreditation requirements, CHEN10010 Chem Eng Proc Principles must be taken as Additional Option, if not taken in Stage 1.
CHEM20070 Inorganic & Physical Chemistry for Engineers Spring  5
Stage 2 Options - B) Min 0 of:
All Stage 2 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering students may select two Elective Modules, both in the Spring Trimester, to ensure a balanced workload of 30 credits per Trimester. However, if preferred, students may select other Modules related to Engineering by choosing one or two of the following ADDITIONAL OPTION Modules, to give a total workload of 30 credits per Trimester. IMPORTANT: In order to meet professional accreditation requirements, CHEN10010 Chem Eng Proc Principles must be taken as Additional Option, if not taken in Stage 1.
CHEN10010 Chemical Engineering Process Principles Spring  5
Stage 2 Options - B) Min 0 of:
All Stage 2 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering students may select two Elective Modules, both in the Spring Trimester, to ensure a balanced workload of 30 credits per Trimester. However, if preferred, students may select other Modules related to Engineering by choosing one or two of the following ADDITIONAL OPTION Modules, to give a total workload of 30 credits per Trimester. IMPORTANT: In order to meet professional accreditation requirements, CHEN10010 Chem Eng Proc Principles must be taken as Additional Option, if not taken in Stage 1.
CHEN20090 Biotechnology Principles Spring  5
Stage 3 Core Modules
 ACM30030 Multivariable Calculus Eng II Autumn  5
Stage 3 Core Modules
 CHEN30010 Chemical & Bioprocess Reaction Engineering Autumn  5
Stage 3 Core Modules
 CHEN30020 Unit Operations Autumn  5
Stage 3 Core Modules
 CHEN30030 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering Thermodynamics Autumn  5
Stage 3 Core Modules
 CHEN30040 Commercial Pharmaceutical & Bioprocessing Technology Autumn  5
Stage 3 Core Modules
 CHEN30130 Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics Spring  5
Stage 3 Core Modules
 CHEN30200 Chem & Bioprocess Eng Design Spring  10
Stage 3 Core Modules
 CHEN30210 Chem & Bioprocess Eng Lab 2 Spring  10
Stage 3 Core Modules
 MEEN30140 Professional Engineering (Finance) Spring  5
Stage 3 Options - A) Min 0 of:
All Stage 3 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering students may select one Elective Module in the Autumn Trimester to ensure a balanced workload of 30 credits per Trimester. However, if preferred, students may prefer to choose the following ADDITIONAL OPTION Modules, to give a total workload of 30 credits per Trimester.
CHEN40790 Bio-material Interactions Autumn  5
Stage 4 Core Modules
 CHEN40150 Advanced Separation Processes Autumn  5
Stage 4 Core Modules
 CHEN40160 Advanced Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics Autumn  5
Stage 4 Core Modules
 CHEN40210 Advanced Experimental Design Autumn  5
Stage 4 Core Modules
 CHEN40620 Advanced Process Design Autumn  10
Stage 4 Core Modules
 CHEN40010 Environmental Engineering Spring  5
Stage 4 Core Modules
 CHEN40200 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering Research Project Spring  10
Stage 4 Core Modules
 CHEN40560 Process Control Spring  5
Stage 4 Options - A)1 of:
AUTUMN OPTION MODULES. ALL students MUST select one OPTION Module. The Option Module CHEN30010 CBE Reaction Engineering MUST be taken if students have not yet taken a reaction-engineering based course/module (CHEN30010 or equivalent).
CHEN30010 Chemical & Bioprocess Reaction Engineering Autumn  5
Stage 4 Options - A)1 of:
AUTUMN OPTION MODULES. ALL students MUST select one OPTION Module. The Option Module CHEN30010 CBE Reaction Engineering MUST be taken if students have not yet taken a reaction-engineering based course/module (CHEN30010 or equivalent).
CHEN40570 Chemical & Bioproc Systems Eng Autumn  5
Stage 4 Options - B) Min 1 of:
SPRING OPTION MODULES. IMPORTANT: 1) Students who have undertaken Stage 3 on Study Abroad on Erasmus/Exchange and who have not taken CHEN30200 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering Design or equivalent must select CHEN30200 (CBE Process Design) (10 Credits) AND do NOT select an ELECTIVE/ ADDITIONAL OPTION MODULE in Stage 4. ***2) Students who undertook Stage 3 in UCD must select CHEN40610 (Applied Chemistry) together with one 5 credit ELECTIVE/ ADDITIONAL OPTION MODULE.
CHEN30200 Chem & Bioprocess Eng Design Spring  10
Stage 4 Options - B) Min 1 of:
SPRING OPTION MODULES. IMPORTANT: 1) Students who have undertaken Stage 3 on Study Abroad on Erasmus/Exchange and who have not taken CHEN30200 Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering Design or equivalent must select CHEN30200 (CBE Process Design) (10 Credits) AND do NOT select an ELECTIVE/ ADDITIONAL OPTION MODULE in Stage 4. ***2) Students who undertook Stage 3 in UCD must select CHEN40610 (Applied Chemistry) together with one 5 credit ELECTIVE/ ADDITIONAL OPTION MODULE.
CHEN40610 Applied Chemistry: Selected Frontier areas Spring  5
Stage 4 Options - C) Min 0 of:
ADDITIONAL OPTION MODULES. All Stage 4 (BE Stream) Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering students may select one Elective Module in the Spring Trimester to ensure a balanced workload of 30 credits per Trimester. However, if preferred, students may prefer to choose from the following ADDITIONAL OPTION Modules, to give a total workload of 30 credits per Trimester.
CHEN40130 Bioprocess Scale-up and Technology Transfer Spring  5
Stage 4 Options - C) Min 0 of:
ADDITIONAL OPTION MODULES. All Stage 4 (BE Stream) Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering students may select one Elective Module in the Spring Trimester to ensure a balanced workload of 30 credits per Trimester. However, if preferred, students may prefer to choose from the following ADDITIONAL OPTION Modules, to give a total workload of 30 credits per Trimester.
CHEN40460 Downstream Processing Spring  5
Stage 4 Options - C) Min 0 of:
ADDITIONAL OPTION MODULES. All Stage 4 (BE Stream) Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering students may select one Elective Module in the Spring Trimester to ensure a balanced workload of 30 credits per Trimester. However, if preferred, students may prefer to choose from the following ADDITIONAL OPTION Modules, to give a total workload of 30 credits per Trimester.
CHEN40510 Advanced Characterisation Tech Spring  5
Stage 4 Options - C) Min 0 of:
ADDITIONAL OPTION MODULES. All Stage 4 (BE Stream) Chemical & Bioprocess Engineering students may select one Elective Module in the Spring Trimester to ensure a balanced workload of 30 credits per Trimester. However, if preferred, students may prefer to choose from the following ADDITIONAL OPTION Modules, to give a total workload of 30 credits per Trimester.
MEEN41410 Tissue Engineering Spring  5

See the UCD Assessment website for further details, including worked examples of how degree award GPAs are calculated

Module Weighting Info
 
  Award GPA
Programme Module Weightings Rule Description Description >= <=
BHENG001 Stage 4 - 70.00%
Stage 3 - 30.00%
 Standard Honours Award First Class Honours

3.68

4.20
Second Class Honours, Grade 1

3.08

3.67
Second Class Honours, Grade 2

2.48

3.07
Pass

2.00

2.47
Print this page
Fill in the following details:
Enter the body of your query here.

From time to time UCD would like to send you further information that we feel, based on your enquiry, would be of interest to you.