A diploma course is a post-secondary, certificate-level program that provides specialized training in a particular field or industry. It focuses on practical skills and knowledge in a specific domain, usually lasting one to three years.
A Diploma in Chemical Engineering is a 3-year program that provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in chemical engineering principles, theories, and practices. The basic overview of the course covers:
- Chemical engineering fundamentals, including chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
- Skills in design, operation, and maintenance of chemical processes and equipment.
- Problems solving in chemical processing, energy, and environmental sectors.
Topics covered
Diploma in Chemical Engineering: Course Eligibility and Structure
The candidate must be between 15 and 25 years old (the age range varies by institution). The student must have passed their 10th standard with science and mathematics with a minimum 35-50% aggregate mark and appear for entrance exams (e.g., JEE, state-level polytechnic, BITSAT, GATE).
Usually, the diploma program consists of 6 semesters, covering:
- Fundamental sciences (chemistry, physics, mathematics)
- Chemical engineering principles (thermodynamics, kinetics, transport phenomena)
- Chemical process technology (unit operations, chemical reactors)
- Plant design and economics
- Electrical and electronics engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Chemical engineering lab and project work
Note: The intake through to entrance exams differs according to college, wherein factors like reservation criteria also come into play. The exact course structure might be different from college to college as well.
Admission Process for a Diploma in Chemical Engineering
The students who are interested in getting into the Diploma in Chemical Engineering course
- The admission process is based on the Merit of the candidate.
- Every college releases its merit list cut-off marks.
- Candidates can apply online or offline through the official website of the respective college.
- All the important details regarding dates, admission, and the names of shortlisted candidates will be notified on the website and through mail.
Top Colleges for a Diploma in Chemical Engineering
The top colleges, both public and private, can vary depending on various factors such as location, reputation, faculty, infrastructure, and placement records. However, here are some of the leading institutions that are often considered among the best:
Diploma in Chemical Engineering Government Colleges
Here is a list of the top government colleges for the diploma in chemical engineering:
College | Description |
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras | Known for its excellent academic programs and research facilities, IIT Madras achieves a milestone in advanced concepts and practical applications. |
National Institute of Technology (NIT) Tiruchirappalli | Offers a well-structured diploma program in chemical engineering with a strong emphasis on industry-oriented training. |
Government College of Technology (GCT) Coimbatore | GCT Coimbatore is a renowned government college that offers a diploma in chemical engineering with a focus on practical skills and hands-on experience. |
L.D. College of Engineering, Ahmedabad | Premier engineering institute in Gujarat that offers a diploma in chemical engineering with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. |
College of Engineering Pune (COEP) | Offers a diploma in chemical engineering with a focus on practical training and industry-oriented education. |
CPC Polytechnic College, Mysore | Reputed institute providing training in chemical engineering principles, theories, and practices |
Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai | A renowned institution for chemical engineering and technology education. |
Also Read this blog: Best Chemical Engineering Colleges in India
Diploma in Chemical Engineering Private Colleges
Here is a list of the top private colleges for the diploma in chemical engineering:
Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore | VIT is a leading private engineering institute that offers a diploma in chemical engineering with a focus on industry-oriented education and research. |
SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai | SRM Institute is another renowned private engineering institute with a strong emphasis on practical skills and hands-on experience. |
Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal | MIT Manipal is a well-established private engineering institute with a focus on research and innovation. |
Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani | BITS Pilani is a prestigious private engineering institute with a strong emphasis on academic excellence. |
Dev Bhoomi School of Engineering, Dehradun | Affiliated with Uttarakhand Technical University (UTU), it offers diplomas along with undergraduate, and postgraduate programs. |
Bharti Vidyapeeth University, Pune | Offers a 3-year full-time diploma program, with limited seat intake. |
Diploma in Chemical Engineering Fees
It is important to research the specific fees for each institution one is considering and compare them to other options before making a decision. It can range from a few thousand to lakhs. You can find information about fees on the official website of the institutions or by contacting their admissions offices.
Diploma in Chemical Engineering: Career Scope and Employability
A student who finishes a diploma in chemical engineering can enroll in an engineering course in the second year. They can either do a job in the company they did an internship for or use the experience of the internship to join other companies for a higher salary. They can join as research fellows in any institution that offers fellowships and even do research in their field.
Check Career: Career as a Chemical Engineering
Diploma in Chemical Engineering Job Profile
Here are the most available job profiles for the Diploma in Chemical Engineering with the annual estimated salaries:
Maintenance Technician | 2-3 lakhs |
Plant Operator | 1-2 lakhs |
Market Analyst | 4-5 lakhs |
Process Engineer | 3-4 lakhs |
Associate Scientist | 5-6 lakhs |
Field Operator | 1-2 lakhs |
Technical Service Representative | 2-3 lakhs |
Supervisor | 2-3 lakhs |
*The figures mentioned above are rough estimates. Raise can be expected owing to factors like Company, Experience, and Skills.
Read More: Most Highest Paying Engineering Careers
Recruiting Companies
You can find job opportunities after pursuing a diploma in chemical engineering in both public and private companies. The government and private jobs after the diploma course are outlined below:
- In the Government Sector: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), Coal India Limited (CIL), Gas Authority of India Ltd. (GAIL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC)
- In the Private Sector: Piramal Healthcare Limited, Pfizer Inc., Schlumberger Limited, GlaxoSmithKline, Deepak Fertilizers and Petrochemicals Corp. Ltd.
Conclusion
The Diploma in Chemical Engineering is an excellent choice for those seeking a practical, industry-focused education. This course is also effective for candidates who wish to gain a certificate in Chemical engineering in a comparatively shorter period and be job-ready. It provides a solid foundation for entry-level positions and future studies.
It can prove itself as a rewarding and fulfilling career path provided the candidate cultivates the skills that most industries require. It opens a whole plethora of pathways as far as employability is concerned. Overall, in India, being a Diploma Chemical Engineer is full of opportunities.
FAQs
Which is better B Tech or Diploma?
B Tech degree holders have access to a wider range of job opportunities compared to B Tech diploma holders. B Tech degree holders are eligible for entry-level engineering jobs as well as management positions in engineering companies.
Is polytechnic good or bad?
If you are looking for junior-level jobs in an engineering field or want to start earning early, then polytechnic is a considerable option. If you want to take up higher-level jobs, you can opt for graduation after a polytechnic diploma to enhance your skills and knowledge in your domain.
Is a diploma harder than 12?
A diploma is indeed tougher than an intermediate thus, it is difficult for a 10th grader to direct a Diploma. One can make it easy. It depends upon the lecturer with experience in the field. Joining a good college according to needs and exposure is the first step towards growth.
Is Chemical Engineering difficult?
Chemical Engineering is a challenging but rewarding field. Having a strong command over chemistry and math skills is very important to excel in the field. As one progresses through the degree, they will find themselves having to use increasingly higher levels of math (differential equations, calculus, etc.)

Prachi, a student pursuing bachelor’s in English and Philosophy from University of Delhi is a knowledge-driven, hardworking individual. Having interest in content writing, research and still exploring other domains, she has a knack for learning.