Process Systems Engineering MSc - 2028/9
Awarding body
University of Surrey
Teaching institute
University of Surrey
Framework
FHEQ Level 7
Final award and programme/pathway title
MSc Process Systems Engineering
Subsidiary award(s)
| Award | Title |
|---|---|
| PGDip | Process Systems Engineering |
| PGCert | Process Systems Engineering |
Modes of study
| Route code | Credits and ECTS Credits | |
| Full-time | PFZ61005 | 180 credits and 90 ECTS credits |
| Part-time | PFZ61006 | 180 credits and 90 ECTS credits |
QAA Subject benchmark statement (if applicable)
Other internal and / or external reference points
N/A
Faculty and Department / School
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences - Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
Programme Leader
AMINI HORRI Bahman (Chst Chm Eng)
Date of production/revision of spec
15/10/2026
Educational aims of the programme
- An integrated approach is taken so as to provide a coherent view that explores the interrelationships between the various components of the programme. The programme draws on the stimulus of the Faculty's research activities.
- It aims to provide the students with the necessary skills required for a successful career in the process industries. This is achieved through a balanced curriculum with a core of process systems engineering modules supplemented by a flexible element by way of elective modules that permit students to pursue an element of specialisation relevant to their backgrounds, interests and/or career aspirations.
- The programme aims to provide a highly vocational education which is intellectually rigorous and up-to-date.
- The programme provides the students with the basis for developing their own approach to learning and personal development.
Programme learning outcomes
| Attributes Developed | Awards | Ref. | |
| State-of-the-art knowledge in process systems engineering methods, in the areas, including Modelling and simulation of process systems; Mathematical optimisation and decision making; Process systems design; Supply chain management; Process and energy integration; and Advanced process control technologies | K | PGCert, PGDip, MSc | |
| Advanced level of understanding in technical topics of preference in one or more of the following aspects: renewable energy technologies; refinery and petrochemical processes; biomass processing technologies; knowledge-based systems. | KC | PGDip, MSc | |
| Advanced level of understanding in technical topics of preference in one or more of the following aspects: renewable energy technologies; refinery and petrochemical processes; biomass processing technologies; knowledge-based systems. | C | PGCert, PGDip, MSc | |
| The programme aims to improve further the students' cognitive abilities to select, define and focus upon an issue at an appropriate level; To collect and digest knowledge and information selectively and independently to support a particular scientific or engineering enquiry; and To develop and apply relevant and sound methodologies for analysing the issue, developing solutions, recommendations and logical conclusions, and for evaluating the results of own or other's work | C | MSc | |
| The programme primarily aims to develop skills for applying appropriate methods to analyse, develop, and assess process systems and technologies | P | PGCert, PGDip, MSc | |
| The programme aims to develop further the students' abilities To assess the available systems in the process industries; To design and/or select appropriate system components and optimise and evaluate system design; and To apply generic systems engineerings methods such as modelling, simulation, and optimisation to facilitate the assessment and development of advanced process technologies and systems | P | MSc | |
| The programme aims to strengthen a range of transferable skills which are relevant to the needs of existing and future professionals in knowledge-intensive industries, irrespective of their sector of operation. | T | PGDip, MSc | |
| The programme aims to strengthen further the students' capabilities in the development of skills in the following aspect: preparation and delivery of communication and presentation, reporting and essay writing; the use of general and professional computing tools; collaborative working with team members; organising and planning of work; and researching new areas, particularly in the aspect of literature review and skills acquisition. | T | MSc |
Attributes Developed
C - Cognitive/analytical
K - Subject knowledge
T - Transferable skills
P - Professional/Practical skills
Programme structure
Full-time
This Master's Degree programme is studied full-time over one academic year, consisting of 180 credits at FHEQ level 7. All modules are semester based and worth 15 credits with the exception of project, practice based and dissertation modules.
Possible exit awards include:
- Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits)
- Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits)
Part-time
This Master's Degree programme is studied part-time over two academic years, consisting of 180 credits at FHEQ level 7. All modules are semester based and worth 15 credits with the exception of project, practice based and dissertation modules.
Possible exit awards include:
- Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits)
- Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits)
Programme Adjustments (if applicable)
N/A
Modules
Year 1 (full-time) - FHEQ Level 7
Module Selection for Year 1 (full-time) - FHEQ Level 7
Semester 1 (Autumn): choose 1 from the 2 listed options.
Semester 2 (Spring): choose 1 from the 3 listed options.
Year 1 (part-time) - FHEQ Level 7
Module Selection for Year 1 (part-time) - FHEQ Level 7
N/A
Year 2 (part-time) - FHEQ Level 7
Module Selection for Year 2 (part-time) - FHEQ Level 7
N/A
Opportunities for placements / work related learning / collaborative activity
| Associate Tutor(s) / Guest Speakers / Visiting Academics | N | |
| Professional Training Year (PTY) | N | |
| Placement(s) (study or work that are not part of PTY) | N | |
| Clinical Placement(s) (that are not part of the PTY scheme) | N | |
| Study exchange (Level 5) | N | |
| Dual degree | N |
Other information
Digital Capabilities:
Students develop digital skills through SurreyLearn, online databases and engineering software, including MATLAB, Aspen Plus and GAMS, for modelling, optimisation, data analysis and presentation. They also use digital communication and collaboration platforms, developing awareness of their appropriate use, limitations and digital wellbeing.
Employability:
The programme develops professional engineering competencies through real-world process engineering problems, industry-relevant assessments and engagement with internal and external speakers. Students strengthen their analytical, problem-solving, communication and critical evaluation skills, preparing them for engineering roles, research and innovation in industry.
Global and Cultural Capabilities:
Students learn in a diverse, collaborative environment that encourages teamwork and appreciation of different cultural and professional perspectives. International engineering examples and invited speakers broaden their understanding of global challenges, inclusive practices and the influence of cultural diversity on engineering research, design and operations.
Resourcefulness and Resilience:
Students develop independent and collaborative problem-solving skills by addressing unfamiliar engineering challenges. They gain experience in developing, implementing and evaluating practical solutions, strengthening adaptability, resourcefulness and resilience.
Sustainability:
Sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals are considered throughout the programme. Students explore the environmental and resource implications of engineering processes, manufacturing and distribution through taught modules, seminars and tutorials. Optional modules provide opportunities to investigate specific sustainability challenges in greater depth.
Quality assurance
The Regulations and Codes of Practice for taught programmes can be found at:
Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2028/9 academic year.