There are many reasons why you should become an engineer. However what sort of engineer? In what field? CCUK talks to Professor Richard Wakeman at the Department for Chemical Engineering at Loughborough University about the potential prospects of their chemical engineering graduates and what qualities he looks for in a good engineering student and degree.

1. What sort of skills as a student would I need to be to do a degree in chemical engineering?

We accept students from a wide range of study backgrounds - although a majority come to us with qualifications in sciences and mathematics, we also welcome applicants who have qualifications in a wider range of subjects but who have an aptitude for sciences and mathematics.

2. What sorts of career opportunities are available to me as a graduate?

Our graduates are valued by industry and are most sought after - many are employed by multinational companies in a wide range of job functions - although most become practising engineers when they graduate. The employers are across the range of process industry sectors - including the bulk and speciality chemicals, water, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, oil and petrochemical, minerals, nuclear and healthcare.

"This Department is recognised internationally for the quality of its placement programme - we have connections with over 250 companies across all sectors of the process industries in countries throughout the world.."

3. In your opinion, what qualities should I look for in a good chemical engineering degree?

A broad education in chemical engineering that is taught using a variety of up-to-date methods and that brings the student close to industry. Practical aspects of chemical engineering topics should be underpinned by sound teaching of the fundamental sciences.

4. What connections does Loughborough University have for industrial placement in chemical engineering?

This Department is recognised internationally for the quality of its placement programme - we have connections with over 250 companies across all sectors of the process industries in countries throughout the world that accept our students for placements.

5. What facilities do you have for your engineering students at Loughborough University?

Loughborough University has one of the largest engineering faculties in the UK, giving top quality support to all engineering students - including a first class dedicated library, a mathematics drop-in centre, the Engineering Student Centre giving on-line resources for students in the Faculty, well equipped laboratory and computing facilities, and extensive support from all academic staff in the Department.