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Embark on an EPSRC-sponsored doctoral programme that blends industry-based research with Masters-level training. Recognised by IChemE, this Formulation EngD helps you advance toward Chartered Engineer status while driving impactful change in engineering.
You'll explore physical, chemical, and biological processes to innovate product design and performance, gaining multidisciplinary skills across engineering and science. Our programme prepares graduates for leadership roles in the most competitive markets.
Prior to my EngD I had completed a degree in Chemistry and was left not knowing where to go next! The EngD was perfect for me as it enabled me to gain engineering skills and also take part in taught courses. I became particularly interested in the food-related modules and confirmed my desire to work in the food industry. I spent some time living and working out at Unilever (my sponsor company) in Vlaardingen, The Netherlands from which I gained valuable industrial experience.
You'll investigate industrial problems; either with large multi-national corporations or SMEs. You'll mainly be based in the School of Chemical Engineering, but will have the chance to be sponsored by an industrial partner.
You'll undertake both Taught Modules (120 credits) and Research as part of this programme. Below is an indicative idea of what you could spend your time on, but your research may be different to this and will be discussed in advance with your supervisor.
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We are ranked in the top 10 for Engineering research in the UK for GPA and 4* research (REF 2021)
Managed by the EPSRC funded Centre for Doctoral Training in Formulation Engineering.
Combine credits of taught material with your research project.
The Formulation Engineering EngD is a four year postgraduate course consisting of study and research, mainly based in industry. You'll examine the physical, chemical and biological processes that create product structure.
Your work will centre on achieving the desired performance of the product and the means to achieve this. This approach places new demands on interdisciplinarity and innovation.
You'll develop a framework of understanding for the design, manufacture and performance assessment of formulated products.
During your research you'll make useful industry connection as you build skills to make you suited to a successful career inside and outside of academia.
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly postgraduate students to get their thoughts on our courses, stunning campus and life in a vibrant and cultural city.
You'll be free to choose any modules from the School of Chemical Engineering Module Handbook. Modules are discussed with Supervisors to ensure they meet the needs of the project.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
You'll undertake 120 credits of taught modules as part of this programme.
Basic Training and Introductory Modules (Years 1 & 2) Choose a minimum 40 credits and up to 60 credits:
Module Title | Credits | Semester |
---|---|---|
Bioscience for Graduates from Other Scientific Disciplines | 10 | Semester 1 |
Process Engineering Fundamentals | 10 | Semester 1 |
Industry 4.0 and Big Data | 20 | Semester 2 |
Innovation Toolkit | 20 | Semester 2 |
Measurement, Sensors and Design of Experiments | 20 | Semester 2 |
Project Management (Business Strategy Delivery) | 10 | Semester 1 |
Techniques for Fuel Cell Characterisation | 10 | Semester 1 |
Available projects in the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Formulation Engineering for Net Zero.
Other projects become available throughout the year so please contact us if you have a specific area of interest.
This degree is run by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Formulation Engineering for Net Zero which is based in the School of Chemical Engineering.
The main research area will be Formulation Engineering, however the School focuses on three key research themes:
We are developing solutions to problems facing industries in the food, pharmaceutical, biotechnological, fast moving consumer goods and speciality products. The Centre for Formulation Engineering.
Improving quality of life demands the supply of increasing amounts of energy and consumer chemicals, whilst at the same time global warming has become a major cause for concern. The Energy research theme addresses the challenges of introducing the hydrogen economy to replace the current reliance on carbon-based fuels.
Our experts are working together to advance new technologies and treatments that enable people to live longer, healthier and happier lives. The Healthcare Technologies Institute.
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
In Chemical Engineering, Biological or Physical Sciences, or Mathematics.
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, supervision, assessment and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
These are most common in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine) subjects, but they can sometimes be available for pre-defined research projects in the arts, humanities or social sciences. These may be advertised as fully funded (with fees and a stipend) or competition funded, meaning the projects compete against other projects at each institution.
You devise your own PhD topic, find a supervisor, write a research proposal and apply to the relevant programme. If you’re offered a place at Birmingham, you can then apply for studentships or funding from various sources. Our Postgraduate Scholarships and Funding database lists all available funding.
A limited number of scholarships and studentships may be available to outstanding applicants. For further information, please explore our scholarships and funding database.
Browse the available projects in the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Formulation Engineering for Net Zero. Application contact details are listed on each project
Other projects become available throughout the year so please contact us if you have a specific area of interest.
International students applying for this programme will need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office before the University can issue you with a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS). We recommend that you apply for your ATAS certificate as soon as you receive an offer from us.
The majority of our students either get a job working with their sponsor company or another one of our industrial partners. Some students progress and stay in Academia, either at the University of Birmingham or elsewhere.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one to one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters.
As a postgraduate researcher, you’ll benefit from tailored support to prepare you for a career in academia or set you up for a wide range of other professions.
We also offer subject specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state of the art facilities.