Chemical Engineering Degree

FunnyBunny2000

Hi,

My son has just started a Chemical Engineering degree with A-levels in Maths, Chemistry, and Psychology. He’s finding the first few lectures challenging, as they seem to expect a strong background in physics, which he last studied at GCSE level. Could you offer some guidance or support?

Many thanks

Reply 1

University of Strathclyde Student Ambassador

Official Rep

Original post by FunnyBunny2000

Hi,
My son has just started a Chemical Engineering degree with A-levels in Maths, Chemistry, and Psychology. He’s finding the first few lectures challenging, as they seem to expect a strong background in physics, which he last studied at GCSE level. Could you offer some guidance or support?
Many thanks

Hi @FunnyBunny2000

To help your son bridge the gap in his physics knowledge for his Chemical Engineering degree, he can take several steps. First, he should review key concepts from his GCSE physics using online resources like Khan Academy for quick refreshers. He can also utilize university support services, such as tutoring, study groups, or workshops focused on foundational subjects. Encouraging him to connect with professors or teaching assistants for guidance will be beneficial, as they can provide insights on specific areas to focus on. Joining study groups with peers can enhance his understanding, and concentrating on physics topics relevant to chemical engineering, such as thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, will be particularly useful. Exploring online courses or tutorials specific to engineering physics, along with regular practice on physics problems, can reinforce his learning. Lastly, remind him that it’s normal to find the early stages of a degree challenging, and with time and effort, he will gain confidence. Encouraging him to seek help is key to his success.

Ethan (Product Design Engineering)

Reply 2

FunnyBunny2000

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed response. I’ve passed on all your excellent advice to my son. He’s been in touch with his course tutor and is receiving support, which is reassuring. I completely agree—seeking help is essential for his success, and I just don’t want him to struggle in silence. It’s still early days, and I can see he’s putting unnecessary pressure on himself. I’ve encouraged him to approach things strategically, rather than letting stress and worry take over. We’re visiting him today, and thankfully, he sounded a bit more positive over the phone.
Thank you once again.

Reply 3

artful_lounger

Universities Forum Helper

Original post by FunnyBunny2000

Chelical engineering is mostly maths and physics so will expect students ot quincy pick up thr physics content even if not necessarily required for admission. This should be taught but the pace at degree level is often brisk and I know from experience if you have less background in area (or aptitude for it) it's easy to fall behind.

It's definitely worth him flagging and any challenges/concerns to his personal tutor early, preparing thoroughly ahead of seminars/tutorials to maximise what he gets out of them (e.g. making a note of the topics/questions he struggled with and why, so he can ask directed questions about them) and also making use of office hours.

It may also be worth him discussing with his personal tutor the content of a chemical engineering degree (I.e. that it's essentially about 70% maths, 20% physics and maybe 10% chemistry at most) and whether that aligns with his expectations, interests, and aptitudes.

As i gather its not uncommon for talented chemists to apply to chemical engineering degrees because they enjoy chemistry but feel the "engineering" label will be better for employment, expecting a course in applied chemistry but finding it is indeed fully an engineering degree! Such individuals may find they would rather a chemistry degree and may change course in the end (and if this is a consideration- its something to be acted on ASAP rather than waiting!).