One of the key sectors in the economies of the English-speaking Caribbean is that of the process industries. Thus, the petroleum and natural gas industries effectively control the economy in Trinidad and Tobago, and the minerals industry (bauxite, cement, etc.) is of prime importance in Jamaica, with sugar and food having an impact in all territories.

In addition to these industries however, there is a wide range of operations in the medium and small-scale process categories such as soaps and detergents, paints, pharmaceuticals, oils and fats, etc. The discipline of Chemical Engineering is concerned with the design, construction and operation of all the processes involved in these industries. Serious considerations are given in all of these industries to safety and environmental protection.

The course of study requires basic knowledge of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics at Advanced level status and comprises a balanced curriculum of basic chemical engineering analysis but with a significant component of practical and project work in engineering applications, computer studies and industrial plant projects.

In the final year programme, students are required to carry out the design of a plant; this being the culmination of the programme of studies. The programme is ideal as background for postgraduate studies in many areas including petroleum engineering.

Graduates of the Chemical and Process Engineering Programme will find employment in all aspects of the process industries including design, process engineering, project engineering, operations management, technical services and marketing.