Strike the right chemistry

Pervin Malhotra

BSc Chemistry Vs Chemical engineering

Q. I am in class XII student and have opted for the non-medical stream. I am in a dilemma as I am unable to narrow down on a course to opt for in college. I am confused between BSc in chemistry and Chemical Engineering. — Arun Verma

A. In a nutshell, the big difference between chemistry and chemical engineering is one of originality and scale.

Those who pursue Chemistry work with chemicals and analytical equipment in a traditional lab setting to develop new materials and processes, and Chemical Engineers take these materials and processes and upscale them to make them larger or more efficient.

Starting with a BSc in Chemistry, you’ll pursue advanced degrees (MSc, PhD and even Post-doc) in specialized areas to expand your opportunities. The doctorate will equip you for going into research or for teaching chemistry at the college or graduate level.

While essentially working in the lab with chemicals in smaller quantities, you may also do sample analysis or contribute to R&D. Higher qualifications may lead to supervisory roles in research.

Most chemical engineers start off with a BE in chemical engineering, at times followed by a Master’s (doctorates are relatively few compared with those pursuing chemistry).

Although the chemical engineering syllabus includes most of the stuff taught in BSc Chemistry, it also includes engineering courses and additional math (including differential equations, linear algebra, and statistics).

You’ll study fluid dynamics, mass transfer, reactor design, thermodynamics, and process design.

Chemical engineers work on R&D teams, process engineering at a plant, project engineering, or management in factories. Those with a Master’s degree often find themselves in management or start new companies.

While the industry hires both types of professionals, those who’ve done Chemistry are the kings of lab analysis. They examine samples, develop new materials and processes, develop computer models and simulations, and often teach. Apart from academics, chemistry postgrads and PhDs are hired industries like pharma, oil & natural gas, metallurgy, soap and detergent, glass, cement and even food processing.

On the other hand, Chemical engineers are the masters of industrial processes and plants. While they may work in a lab, many others work in in the field, on computers. The work would include designing reactors, heat exchangers, or other equipment that deals with chemicals.

And while there are opportunities for both, chemical engineers do tend to have an edge because of their broader training in design, etc

Lastly, getting into a BSc programme is relatively easy. Admissions are usually based on the aggregate scored at the class 12 level (The better the college, higher the cut-offs).

On the other hand, admission to Chemical Engineering or integrated MSc Chemistry courses is on the basis of competitive entrance tests like the JEE Mains and JEE Advance (the latter, if you’re looking at the IITs).

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