The teaching is very practice-oriented and the proportion of practicals is high. Exercises and practicals are held in small groups in a stimulating learning atmosphere. Direct contact with teaching staff is always possible. All degree courses include practical phases or an optional practical semester or semester abroad can be integrated. 90 % of final dissertations are carried out externally in cooperation with industrial partners or research institutions.

The department offers international degree courses such as the bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry and the master's degree in Nuclear Applications. Most degree courses offer the option of a semester abroad or the final dissertation can be written abroad; here, the existing partnerships with universities in Sweden or Indonesia, among others, can be benefited from. English-language modules are offered in some degree courses to help students improve their language skills. The optional elective range also includes a wide variety of languages.

The department's laboratories, which were newly equipped when the new building on the Jülich campus in 2010 was built, are fitted with modern, state-of-the-art technology.

The department's key research areas are as follows: Industrial biotechnology, use of renewable raw materials, polymer and plastics technology, radiochemistry and environmental chemistry. Students can participate in research projects as part of course projects or final dissertations, or as student assistants.