EngBAM

Frequently Asked Questions

This page shows a collection of the common questions we get asked by students at open events about Chemical Engineering at the University of Birmingham.

Please note: all of these answers were accurate at time of writing in Summer 2022. For the most up-to-date information please contact the University of Birmingham Admissions Team.

Q: How many contact hours should I expect a week?

A: During the first year of your degree you should expect approximately 20 hours of contact hours a week. As you progress through your degree, contact hours will decrease as the amount of self study increases. We recommend students treat their degrees like a job and work around 40 hours a week.

Q: Where can you buy / get textbooks for the course?

A: At Birmingham we don’t require you to purchase any textbooks. All of the resources you need access to you will be able to find online, or if you prefer there are a few copies of the key textbooks in the University library.

Q: How are modules assessed?

A: There is a wide variety of assessment methods used to examine your knowledge. These include exams, class tests, coding portfolios, quizzes, lab reports, group work and design projects.

Q: Can I swap from a Masters degree to a Bachelors once I have arrived in Birmingham?

A: Up until the end of the second year of the course, you may have the opportunity to change your degree option. You can change between Masters, Bachelors and Year in Industry options easily, subject to availability. However, it is more difficult to swap to an International year due to the language requirements for this option.

Q: Do we value the EPQ?

A: We really value the EPQ as it teaches students a lot about report writing, researching and project work. All of these are crucial skills that you will need when you go to university. However, in terms of your offer we are primarily focussed on your A Level grades. An EPQ can be beneficial in borderline decisions.

Q: Do we value work experiences in personal statements?

A: We believe that work experience is incredibly helpful. Work experience can help to make your personal statement stand out as well as enhancing your CV if you apply for internships, placement years or for graduate jobs.