Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology

Subject Overview at Downing 

Average places per year

Average number of offers: 3

Average number of applicants: 25

Course duration 3 years - BA (Hons)
4 years - BA/MEng
Standard offer

A*A*A at A Level

41-43 points overall and 776 at Higher Level IB in relevant subjects.

Course requirements A Level/IB Higher Level Mathematics and Chemistry is essential and science or mathematical subject as a third subject.
All applicants will have to register and take the Natural Sciences Admissions Assessment (NSAA)
Admission overview

Two subject specific interviews on the day, with each lasting up to 30 minutes.

Two interviewers will assess applicants in each interview.

UCAS code H810
Campus code D

Why study Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at Cambridge?

From biofuels, batteries and green energy to oil and gas, from chemicals, pharmaceuticals and foodstuffs to the latest novel nanomaterials and advances in science – chemical engineers make a positive difference in the world.  Chemical engineers design, combine, and operate processes to convert raw materials into valuable products and commodities.   The need for sustainable processes on an industrial scale are at the centre of the  challenges faced by this profession, where new technologies and processes can make a substantial impact on the economics of production.

The course taught in Cambridge aims at teaching and training students to become graduates that meet the needs of industry, with a strong emphasis on applying science to solve real-world problems.

Why study Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at Downing?

This multidisciplinary course includes elements of Chemistry, Physics, Biochemistry, Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering, as well as contexts such as economics, safety and sustainability.  Downing provides a unique opportunity for students, offering a central location within walking distance to a range of Departments in the Physical and Biological Sciences, as well as Engineering.  The vibrant diverse community in college offers the opportunity for undergraduates and postgraduates to meet and share academic experiences from complimentary subjects and disciplines.

Downing has one Fellow in the subject, Dr Kamran Yunus, who is the Director of Studies in Chemical Engineering at the College.  His research interests are focused on studying sustainable feedstock for fuel and energy supply, and developing bioelectrochemical systems that work with wastewater and effluent industrial waste.

Careers after studying Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology

There are excellent employment prospects for graduates of the course in range of sectors that include chemical, process and food industries, biotechnology, management and finance.  Developing experience in problem solving through to developing analytical and management skills are just some of the attributes which graduates from the course have to offer to potential employers. 

Quick Links

Further information on applying to the University of Cambridge can be found here.

The Director of Studies at Downing is Dr Kamran Yunus.

Further advice about entry requirements and interviews for all subjects can be found in the Apply to Downing section of this site.

Further details about the Chemical Engineering course can be found on the University of Cambridge website.