Chemical engineering and processes
A field of study in engineering, manufacturing and construction
Vocational or degree?Both routes6 in 10 train through vocational routes in the EU: 458,000 finished vocational training and 358,000 higher education in this field (2024). Figures for the wider field.Eurostat
Do graduates use it?73% in a matching jobof engineering graduates with a degree in the EU work in a job that matches what they studied. After vocational training: 53%.All engineering fields · Eurostat 2024
Do they find work?87% in workof people who finished higher education in the last 1 to 3 years in the EU (2025). Vocational training: 80%. General upper secondary only: 67%.All fields · Eurostat
What you'd learn
Cutting technologiesChemical processesLaboratory-based sciencesGreen chemistryPackaging processesPackaging engineeringTest proceduresMachinery load capacityWell testing operationsSpectroscopyPetroleumBlanching machine process+ 13 more
The knowledge areas ESCO files under this field, those most needed by jobs first. Actual programmes vary by school and country.
Where it can lead
7 jobs use what this field teaches.
| Job | Prospects | Pay | Usual study | AI exposure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas processing plant control room operator | Average | About average | Post-secondary | Very low |
| Chemical processing plant controller | Average | About average | Post-secondary | Very low |
| Food and beverage packaging technologist | Good | Above average | Degree | Low |
| Oil refinery control room operator | Average | About average | Post-secondary | Very low |
| Packaging production manager | Good | Above average | Degree | Low |
| Tool grinder | Limited | About average | Vocational | Very low |
| Liquid fuel engineer | Good | Above average | Degree | Very low |
Jobs that need the knowledge this field teaches (ESCO), closest match first. This is not a record of where graduates actually end up: no EU-wide data says that per field.
Where to study
949 institutions in the EU offer engineering bachelor's degrees. Pick a country at the top of the page to see where to study and the official course finders.