Pre-master
Source: https://www.tue.nl/en/education/graduate-school/master-chemical-engineering/pre-master Parent: https://www.tue.nl/en/education/graduate-school/master-chemical-engineering
Master Chemical Engineering
Pre-master
Pre-master Chemical Engineering
Have you completed an HBO or WO bachelor’s degree and would like to pursue the Master’s program in Chemical Engineering at TU/e? Then you need a suitable WO bachelor's degree as a prior education. If you do not have this, you may be able to make up for deficiencies through the pre-master program.
Why a pre-master’s after your HBO degree?
Pursuing an academic master’s after your HBO bachelor’s degree offers several advantages:
- Enhance your career prospects: With an academic master’s degree, you can progress to positions with more responsibility and complexity.
- More challenging and intellectually stimulating: A master’s degree provides deeper knowledge and teaches you to think critically and analytically.
- Scientific curiosity: Discover how scientific research contributes to innovations in the chemical industry.
- Preparation for a PhD or PDEng: If you want to continue as a researcher or technological designer, a pre-master’s program is the perfect stepping stone.
In addition, the pre-master serves a dual purpose: on one hand, it fills any gaps in your prior knowledge to ensure you meet the academic level (bachelor), and on the other, it provides you with the opportunity to determine whether you feel at home, can handle the challenge, and possess the right study attitude – an essential self-assessment before starting your master's program.
Admission requirements
To be admitted to the Master’s program in Chemical Engineering via a pre-master’s track, the following conditions apply:
- Completed HBO degree in a relevant field:
- HBO Chemistry -> pre-master Molecular Science and Materials Chemistry (MSMC)
- HBO Chemical Technology -> pre-master Chemical and Process Technology (CPT)
- Sufficient English proficiency and mathematical knowledge (see the admission requirements on the TU/e Education Guide).
You need to apply via Studielink. The pre-master programs can be found under bachelor’s degree programs. The application deadline is May 1.
Structure of the pre-master program
The Chemical Engineering pre-master program consists of 30 credits (EC) and is structured as follows:
- A general part (track-independent): Mathematics and programming (12.5 EC)
- A track-specific part, preparing for CPT or MSMC (17.5 EC)
Track-independent (for all pre-master students):
- 6BBR03 Calculus (5 EC)
- 6BBR06 Programming and Linear Algebra (5 EC)
- 6PMR01 Advanced Calculus for premasters (2.5 EC)
Track-specific Chemical Process Technology (CPT):
- 6PMR02 Introduction to Thermodynamics for premasters (2.5 EC)
- 6PMR03 Physical Transport Phenomena 1 for premasters (2.5 EC)
- 6PMR04 Separation Technology and Kinetics for premasters (2.5 EC)
- 6PMR05 Advanced Thermodynamics for premasters (2.5 EC)
- 6PMR07 Physical Transport Phenomena 2 for premasters (2.5 EC)
- 6P3X0 Chemical Reactors (5 EC)
Find out the complete CPT program on the educationguide
Track-specific Molecular Science and Materials Chemistry (MSMC):
- 6BBR04 Introduction to Thermodynamics and Chemical Bonding (5 EC)
- 6BAR01 Physical Chemistry (5 EC)
- 6PMR06 Organic Chemistry for premasters (2.5 EC)
- 6BMR03 Materials Science 1 (5 EC)
Find out the complete MSMC program on the educationguide
Examination and study progress
Each course within the pre-master has a specific examination format, such as digital interim tests, written exams, or a combination thereof. A course is successfully completed with a grade of 5.5 or higher.
Binding Study Advice (BSA)
At the end of the academic year, you will receive binding study advice:
- Positive: You have completed 100% of the pre-master program and are admissible to the Master’s program in Chemical Engineering (CPT/MSMC).
- Negative: You have completed less than 100% of the pre-master program and cannot enroll in this pre-master at TU/e for the next three years.
- Hardship clause: If you are missing only one course, you may request an additional exam from the Examination Committee.
After the first semester (Q1, Q2), you will receive a preliminary study progress recommendation.
Guidance and support
During the pre-master, you are not alone. You will receive support from:
- Student mentor: A senior student who helps you get acquainted with studying at TU/e and connects you with fellow students.
- Academic advisor: Guides you in study planning, specialization choices, and any personal circumstances.
- Student psychologist / student counselor: For support with study problems or personal challenges.
The student mentor also helps with:
- Social integration within the study group
- Finding your way around TU/e and student life in Eindhoven
- Study tips and guidance for handling the university’s higher study load
Why choose for the pre-master program Chemical Engineering at TU/e
With nearly 200 PhD researchers within CE&C, you have access to a wealth of research data and modern facilities that are also integrated into the teaching process. The informal atmosphere means you can easily drop by a professor's office, and there's always someone willing to help. In the first quarter, you only take one course, giving you ample time to get accustomed to the new environment. Moreover, you attend classes together with bachelor students, which enhances collegiality and contributes to a stimulating learning environment.
Play video
Guus Aalbers
"I wanted more than just the material offered – I was looking for depth, theory, and answers to why nature behaves the way it does."
More information and contact
- Would you like to learn more about the pre-master program? Visit the TU/e Graduate School website for general information about pre-master programs.
- Do you have questions about the admission process and/or entry requirements? Check the Education Guide or contact Education Student Affairs (ESA): ESA@tue.nl.
- For specific questions about the program, you can contact the academic advisor: dr. Kim Pauwels (k.f.d.pauwels@tue.nl).
Downloads
- [### [pdf] Pre-master program MSMC _ CPT 2025-2026.pdf
437 KB](https://assets.w3.tue.nl/w/fileadmin/CE%26C/education/Pre-master%20program%20MSMC%20_%20CPT%202025-2026.pdf)
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