Applications to chemical and process engineering degree courses across the UK have risen sharply, according to new data from UCAS, signalling renewed interest in a discipline long affected by low awareness among prospective students.
Figures highlighted by the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) show that the number of applicants holding offers for process, chemical and biochemical engineering courses has increased by 16% compared with 2024. Overall applications have climbed by 47.8% since 2022.
The uplift follows sustained efforts by IChemE to improve understanding of the profession through outreach initiatives such as its DiscoverChemEng campaign, which targets schools and colleges and aligns with established careers guidance frameworks.
Historically, limited awareness of chemical engineering as a career path has contributed to persistent recruitment challenges across industry. The latest data suggests that barrier may be starting to ease, with a broader and more diverse pipeline of students now emerging.
The profile of applicants is also shifting. Women account for 36.7% of applications to chemical engineering courses, up from 32% in 2020, a notable rise in a sector where female representation across the wider engineering workforce remains significantly lower. International interest is also growing, with applications from non-EU countries increasing by 28% year on year.
IChemE said the figures provide early evidence that long-term outreach is beginning to reshape perceptions of the discipline, particularly by highlighting its role in areas such as clean energy, sustainability, advanced manufacturing and digitalisation.
“Growth in applications, particularly among women and international students, is encouraging because it points to a broader and more diverse pipeline of future engineers.
“Chemical and biochemical engineering have traditionally been misunderstood by young people, despite their central role in all the key sectors that underpin economic growth, from clean energy and sustainability to advanced manufacturing and defence. We are actively working to change those perceptions by showing how chemical and process engineering fits into areas such as AI and digitalisation, as well as green technology and sustainability, all of which resonate with student audiences and appeal as attractive career prospects.”
– Jo Badge, Head of Young People’s and Student Engagement at IChemE.
With demand rising for engineers capable of supporting economic growth and tackling complex industrial and environmental challenges, the institution said continued engagement with education providers and investment in course quality will be critical to sustaining momentum and strengthening the long-term talent pipeline.
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