Chemistry

Studying Chemistry at Swansea will give you a strong foundation in both the theoretical principles and practical techniques that underpin the chemical sciences. You will explore major areas of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, biological, medicinal, theoretical and computational chemistry, developing a broad understanding of how each discipline contributes to real scientific challenges.

From the very beginning of your degree, you will build practical skills through hands on laboratory experience. You will learn how to work safely and accurately in the lab, record and analyse data, interpret results and use a range of modern chemical techniques. As you progress, you will develop your numerical, mathematical and analytical skills, enabling you to work confidently with data, solve complex problems and communicate your findings clearly.

You will learn how chemists apply their knowledge to understand the world around us, from designing new materials and medicines to analysing environmental samples and investigating molecular behaviour. You will also develop the independent learning skills needed to evaluate information, tackle new challenges and grow your scientific expertise.

Clear and effective communication is an important part of the course. You will practise presenting ideas, explaining scientific concepts and writing reports using appropriate sources and scientific conventions. These skills are highly valued by employers and will support your success in a wide range of scientific and professional settings.

If you choose the MChem pathway, you will take your learning even further. You will deepen your conceptual understanding, gain enhanced practical and research skills and apply specialist knowledge to a substantial research project. This advanced training prepares you for professional accreditation and is an excellent route into scientific research and specialist careers.

This programme is available as a four-year MChem, an advanced undergraduate degree that includes a further research focused year. The MChem leads to a master’s level qualification in addition to your undergraduate degree, giving you expert scientific training and a springboard towards a range of specialist careers.

In Year 1, you will typically study areas including: Chemical Thinking, Chemical Reactions, Structure and Bonding .

In Year 2, you will typically study areas including: Further Inorganic Chemistry, Further Physical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry.

In Year 3, you will typically study areas including: Advanced Topics in Organic, Biological and Medicinal Chemistry, Advanced Topics in Inorganic and Materials Chemistry, Advanced Laboratory Experience.

In Year 4, you will typically study areas including: Advanced Integrated Topics in Chemistry, Scientific innovation and entrepreneurship. You will also undertake a MChem Research Project.

Students will be taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars and discussion groups, supported by practical classes and field courses. Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, including examinations, coursework and a practical research project.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Chemistry, Royal Society of