MSc Formulation Engineering

Formulation engineering is the development and manufacture of formulated products - where function derives from microstructure or nanostructure. This programme is led by our research expertise in this area and equips graduates to pursue careers in multiple sectors.

Chemical engineering is dynamic and evolving, and today extends far beyond its roots in oil and gas processing. It provides solutions to problems facing many sectors, such as food, fast-moving consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare. Key drivers include improvements to product functionality, decreasing cost to the consumer, and increasing process efficiency and sustainability.

Many modern products in these sectors are formulated – their functionality is entirely dependent upon their structure at the micrometre or nanometre scale. This programme explores the factors that influence and control the design, development and manufacture of such products. In addition, we explore the importance of “big data” to the industry in terms of R&D and manufacturing, and the transition to data-driven practices which can be summarised as “industry 4.0”.

Taught material is guided by our research expertise in this area. The School of Chemical Engineering at the University of Birmingham is seeking to develop and produce formulated products such as food or pharmaceuticals with novel properties in a sustainable manner. To do this, we collaborate with industry in a variety of sectors.

Our graduates are well prepared for a career in industry or academia and have an opportunity to capitalise on the growing global demand for formulation and process engineers.

Core modules will give you an advanced understanding of advanced chemical engineering principles and concepts relevant to formulated products. Optional modules will allow you to develop expertise in specialist areas depending upon your interests.

The research project (MSc only) will allow you to undertake independent research in formulated product design, development or manufacture with world-leading research teams within the school.

Why study a Masters in Formulation Engineering at Birmingham?

• In this course, we focus on the principles underlying the design, development and efficient and sustainable manufacture of formulated products, with examples drawn from multiple sectors of the industry. Such products include formulated foods, fast-moving consumer goods, medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
• Our themed optional modules enable you to specialise in areas of formulation engineering that interest you; from the production and formulation of pharmaceuticals, generation of bioproducts, clean energy including hydrogen fuel cells and thermal energy storage, and the business surrounding chemical and process engineering.
• Teaching is led by our world-leading research in formulation engineering, and during the research project, MSc students work within research groups on an original research project in the area of formulated product design, development or manufacture.
• Birmingham has been challenging and developing great minds for more than a century. With over 35,000 students and 7,000 staff, today we are one of the world’s leading universities. Characterised by a tradition of innovation, research at the University has broken new ground, pushed forward the boundaries of knowledge and made an impact on people’s lives – a tradition that this programme proudly continues.
• Benefit from our collaborations with world-class industry partners, and international, leading-edge engineering and science departments.

Do you want to make a difference and help shape the world we live in? Are you passionate about problem-solving? Would you like to work with some of the best researchers in the world to provide solutions to the current day and future global issues?

If so, the University of Birmingham could be the right postgraduate choice for you. The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences is leading the way in cutting edge education, research and development across various sectors, such as engineering, industry, technology, energy, healthcare, and much more. Studying with us will not only be the next step on your career path but will enable you to help make the world a more advanced, resilient and sustainable place.

Why study at the University of Birmingham?

• We are a global Top 100 University and are ranked top 20 in multiple UK league tables
• We have been named the most targeted university by the UK’s top 100 graduate employers (The Graduate Market in 2021
• 87% of our research has a global impact (REF 2014)
• Numerous UoB alumni and staff have been involved with work recognised with Nobel prizes
• There is a wealth of employability support services available to students. The College and our Careers Network can provide you with practical advice and skills for career development. We also have excellent industrial links with global companies, such as Rolls Royce and Jaguar Land Rover, which allow opportunities for our students to gain insight and experience of the industry.
• You could receive a Commonwealth Scholarship worth £3,000 or a Global Masters Scholarship worth £10,000 if you start your studies in September 2021. Information and eligibility criteria for both awards is available on our website.