Curriculum Intensification Through Integration of Units of Study in the Chemical Engineering Degree Programme

Chemical engineering education is made more relevant and up-to-date through integration of the units of study. Curriculum integration has received considerable attention in recent years and many educators promote the idea because of its many advantages. This study looks at the integration of the units of study in the chemical engineering curriculum. The concept of integration is defined and different integration models are discussed. Vertical and horizontal integration are revisited and examples of these types of integration are presented in the context of chemical engineering units of study. A framework for implementing the integration is presented. The current integration and related issues are examined through a questionnaire targeted at final year chemical engineering students. An integrated chemical engineering curriculum will give positive results including elimination of poorly coordinated units of study, promotion of deeper learning and enhancement of generic attributes.