To become a chemical engineer one should have a graduate degree (B.E
/ B.Tech) or postgraduate degree (M.E) in Chemical Engineering. There
are both degree as well as diploma courses. One can go for the 3 year
diploma course after the 10th standard (SSC).
The basic eligibility criteria for a BE / B.Tech is 10+2 or equivalent
examination, with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Duration : BE / B.Tech courses are of 4 years' duration.
Academic Programme : The focus of the BE/B.Tech programmes in
Chemical Engineering is on Industrial Chemistry, Polymer Technology, Polymer
Processing, Polymer Testing, Polymer Synthesis etc. The ME level course
generally offers specialized training and research in the areas like computer
aided plant design, petroleum refining, fertilizer technology, processing
of food and agricultural products, synthetic food, petrochemicals, synthetic
fibres, coal and mineral based industries etc.
Selection : Selection to the graduate courses
( BE / B.Tech ) is based on merit i.e the marks secured in the final exams
of 10+2 and through entrance exams. Entrance to the major institutions and IIT's is through JEE (Joint Entrance Exam)
OR their own separate entrance exams and other state level and national
level exams. There is also the AMIE (Associate Membership
Examination of the Institute of Engineers) which enables working people
in the private and public sector, or diploma holders to acquire a Bachelor's
degree through distance education for career advancement.
Personal Skills : A successful chemical engineer
must posses strong technical ability and high motivation. Excellent analytical,
communication and teamwork skills is a necessity and the candidate should
be hardworking, good at organizing and solving problems. It is also necessary
to like working with tools, drawing sketches of complex things and operations,
and conceptualising forms and structures. Good computer skill is also
essential as they use computer technology to optimize all phases of research
and production. As the knowledge and duties of chemical engineers overlap
many fields, they must be aware of all aspects of chemicals manufacturing
and how it affects the environment, the safety of workers and customers.
