Chemical Engineering Program Curriculum Overview
The Chemical Engineering Program at Universitas Malikussaleh is structured to meet the evolving demands of industries by equipping students with both theoretical and practical knowledge. This curriculum, valid from 2020 to 2025, is developed based on the Indonesian National Qualifications Framework (KKNI) and adheres to Permendikbud No. 49 of 2014. It is designed to produce professionals who can contribute to the chemical, petrochemical, renewable energy, and related sectors, both nationally and globally.
Program Objectives and Key Competencies:
The main objective of the program is to produce graduates who are highly skilled in applying chemical engineering principles to real-world challenges. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Apply Scientific and Engineering Knowledge: Utilize mathematics, natural sciences, and chemical engineering principles to develop innovative solutions for industrial processes.
- Design and Conduct Experiments: Plan, execute, and analyze experiments to investigate chemical processes and systems, ensuring data accuracy and relevancy to industry standards.
- Design Systems and Processes: Develop and optimize chemical processes, components, and systems to meet specific needs within industries such as petrochemicals, agriculture, and renewable energy, focusing on safety, efficiency, and environmental impact.
- Collaborate in Multidisciplinary Teams: Work effectively within teams that span multiple disciplines, bringing a holistic approach to solving complex engineering problems.
- Problem Identification and Resolution: Identify engineering challenges, analyze them critically, and develop feasible solutions using advanced engineering tools and methodologies.
- Ethical and Professional Responsibility: Understand and apply ethical considerations in professional practices, including the societal, environmental, and economic impacts of engineering decisions.
- Effective Communication: Communicate technical information clearly and effectively in both written and oral formats to diverse stakeholders, including engineers, managers, and non-technical audiences.
- Global and Societal Awareness: Recognize the broader implications of engineering projects on society and the environment, and make informed decisions that benefit communities and preserve natural resources.
- Commitment to Lifelong Learning: Cultivate a habit of continuous learning to stay updated with advancements in technology and contemporary issues in the chemical engineering field.
Curriculum Structure and Components:
The curriculum is composed of core and elective courses that emphasize both foundational knowledge and advanced technical skills. It provides a comprehensive educational experience through classroom instruction, hands-on laboratory work, fieldwork, and research projects. The program is divided as follows:
- Core Courses (72.2% of total credits):
- Basic Sciences (BK-1): This category includes essential subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, which form the foundation of chemical engineering knowledge.
- Example courses: Mathematics I & II, Basic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry.
- Engineering Science and Design (BK-2): Courses in this group focus on core chemical engineering disciplines, such as thermodynamics, reaction engineering, and process control. Students also engage in practical applications through computational simulations and hands-on laboratory exercises.
- Example courses: Thermodynamics, Reaction Engineering, Process Design, Process Control.
- Utilities and Safety (BK-3): These courses cover crucial topics such as safety protocols in chemical plants, environmental management, and the integration of utility systems like water treatment and energy efficiency.
- Example courses: Industrial Safety and Health, Environmental Engineering, Utility Systems.
- Basic Sciences (BK-1): This category includes essential subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, which form the foundation of chemical engineering knowledge.
- Elective Courses (27.8% of total credits):
- Specialized Topics: Students can choose from a range of elective courses that focus on cutting-edge areas such as renewable energy technologies, petrochemicals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to match their career interests.
- Example courses: Renewable Energy Technology, Polymer Processing, Biotechnology, Corrosion Engineering.
- Specialized Topics: Students can choose from a range of elective courses that focus on cutting-edge areas such as renewable energy technologies, petrochemicals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to match their career interests.
- Capstone Projects and Fieldwork:
- Internships and Research Projects: To bridge the gap between theory and practice, students must complete internships (Kerja Praktek) and participate in research projects. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their knowledge in real industrial settings, preparing them for their future careers.
- Final Thesis: In the final year, students undertake a comprehensive research project in which they address real-world engineering challenges under the supervision of academic and industry experts.
- Humanities and Social Sciences:
- In addition to technical subjects, the curriculum includes courses in ethics, entrepreneurship, and communication to ensure that graduates are not only technically proficient but also socially responsible and capable of contributing to societal development.
- Example courses: Engineering Ethics, Entrepreneurship, Technical Communication.
- In addition to technical subjects, the curriculum includes courses in ethics, entrepreneurship, and communication to ensure that graduates are not only technically proficient but also socially responsible and capable of contributing to societal development.
Graduate Career Pathways:
Graduates of the Chemical Engineering Program at Universitas Malikussaleh are highly sought after in various industries, including:
- Chemical and Process Engineers: Graduates can work as process engineers, production engineers, or plant managers in industries such as petrochemicals, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and energy.
- Relevant roles include: Production Engineer, Quality Control Engineer, Process Design Engineer, Safety Engineer.
- Research and Development: Many graduates pursue careers in research, working as research engineers or scientists in industrial R&D departments or academic research institutions.
- Relevant roles include: Research Engineer, Data Analyst, R&D Specialist.
- Entrepreneurship (Technopreneur): The program also prepares graduates to launch their own businesses in fields such as chemical manufacturing, renewable energy production, or advanced material development.
- Relevant roles include: Founder of Startups in Chemical and Environmental Sectors.
- Academia and Further Studies: Graduates who wish to continue their education can pursue advanced degrees and contribute as lecturers, researchers, or academic advisors.
- Relevant roles include: University Lecturer, Research Fellow, PhD Candidate.
Learning and Assessment Methods:
- Project-Based Learning: Students work on real-world projects that enhance their understanding of engineering concepts and their application in industry.
- Laboratory Work: Practical skills are developed through extensive laboratory work, ensuring that students can operate industrial-scale equipment and conduct sophisticated experiments.
- Continuous Assessment: Learning is assessed through a combination of examinations, assignments, group projects, and presentations, with a strong focus on developing both technical expertise and soft skills.
Commitment to Excellence and Lifelong Learning: The Chemical Engineering Program emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, encouraging graduates to stay current with evolving industry practices and technological innovations. Through continuous professional development, graduates are prepared to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the chemical engineering field and make meaningful contributions to industry and society.
Conclusion: The Chemical Engineering Program at Universitas Malikussaleh equips students with the necessary skills to thrive in a dynamic and fast-evolving industry. Through a well-rounded curriculum that combines theory, practical experience, and professional ethics, graduates are prepared to tackle the engineering challenges of today and tomorrow, making them highly competitive in both local and global markets.