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Teaching
Modules are taught by a combination of formal lectures, demonstrations, discussion classes and example problems. The taught material enhances basic knowledge of chemical engineering fundamentals, as well as offering experience of other science- and business-based disciplines. The courses are assessed by both unseen examination and written coursework.
During the first two terms, students take ten taught modules. Each module usually contains at least 16 hours of contact time (lectures, tutorials, etc) and students are expected to spend at least 16 hours per week on private study and coursework preparation.
| One to one supervision | During the research component, students will normally meet with their supervisor for at least one hour per week. Mentors may also be assigned for laboratory work; these are able to provide equipment-specific assistance as required. The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University’s expectations regarding supervision. |
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| Lectures | During the taught component, students are expected to attend at least ten hours of lectures per week. The exact pattern and distribution of lectures over the two terms will depend on the elective options chosen. |
| Small group teaching | During the first two terms, students normally receive up to two hours of supervision (ie a tutorial in a group of two to six students) per core module taken. |
| Taught/Research Balance | Equal Taught/Research |
Feedback
During the taught component, students are normally provided with feedback on any coursework assignments submitted for assessment. Students are asked to attend study meetings with the programme manager at the end of each term to discuss any academic-related issues; the programme manager submits termly online reports outlining the academic progress and industry of each student. During the research component, feedback is normally provided on a weekly basis by the research supervisor.
Assessment
Thesis / Dissertation
From March to August, students undertake a full-time research project, the results of which are submitted as a dissertation not exceeding 10,000 words. Students will also each deliver a seminar based on their dissertation. In some cases, an oral examination may be held.
Essays
For taught modules which are assessed via coursework, the assignments may involve a combination of some or all of the following:
- report/essay – individual or group
- presentations – individual or group
- in-class test
- class participation
Written examination
Students will be expected to sit an unseen (closed-book) examination for taught modules assessed via examination. An oral examination may also be held.