Chemistry (Digital Methods and Computational Modelling)

Train as a chemist for the industries of the future. This three-year degree combines traditional chemistry with computational skills – an emerging specialism that is increasingly valued by employers across a large range of fields.

Data science, AI and machine learning are allowing scientists to make discoveries and run experiments faster and at lower cost. On this degree you’ll gain the chemistry knowledge and computing skills you need to join this fast-growing field.

You don’t need previous computing knowledge, as your programming training will be tailored to your level. By the time you graduate you’ll be able to:
• write your own programs
• use state-of-the-art software to analyse big data
• look at digital simulations of molecules in incredible detail

Southampton is one of just a few UK universities where you can study this subject to an advanced level.

Outstanding undergraduate laboratories and equipment
Take advantage of our refurbished laboratories, which opened recently as part of a £12m investment in Chemistry’s facilities. In this spacious, modern environment you’ll gain hands-on practical experience of equipment such as NMR and IR spectrometers and X-ray diffractometers. There are also laptops for each student so that you can record your practical work.

It’s the same high-tech equipment you’ll find in industry or academic labs, and you’ll learn to make and analyse your own samples, with full support and training – all excellent preparation for your future career.

You’ll also be trained in the specific requirements of high-performance computing.

Learn about research as it happens
Southampton is a Russell Group University, this means you’ll learn from staff who are using AI and digital modelling to benefit society; for example by improving renewable energy technologies and supporting research into the treatment of disease.

They will share their expertise with you, bringing the most up-to-date knowledge to your seminars and lectures, and you’ll be able to sample their research during your individual practical work. In addition, our leading role in the UK’s AI for Scientific Discovery Network will give you access to seminars with leading data and computer scientists.

Your career
There are many roles outside of scientific research where a strong scientific underpinning is beneficial. This bachelor’s level degree gives an excellent grounding in chemistry and how computation and data management can have a positive impact.

There is growing demand for this skillset, with every branch of industry and research looking to harness the potential of AI, computer modelling and big data.
You'll be able to pursue a career in any area of the chemical industry, including sectors like, pharmaceutical; biomedical; renewable energy; manufacturing. You’ll also be able to explore wider ranging careers in areas like, programming and software development; project management; scientific journalism; scientific sales; teaching.

If you’re not sure what path to choose, career-focused activities in year two will help you understand the options and map them to your strengths and interests. These activities include talks from industry speakers, giving you a flavour of different career paths.

Students interested in teaching can enhance their CVs by volunteering in outreach or chemical education research. There will also be opportunities to get involved in research.

Supporting your studies
You’ll be part of a supportive Chemistry community, with a personal academic tutor to provide any extra help you need throughout your studies, both academically and personally. Tutorial groups are small, so you’ll have plenty of time and individual support from your tutors.

Years one and two: You’ll gain a foundation in the fundamentals of organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, as well as practical lab techniques. A programming module tailored to your level of knowledge and a computational practical will prepare you for more in-depth study in year three. Core modules in the first and second year are shared across most of our chemistry degrees. This makes it possible to transfer to the MChem programme.

Year three: You’ll take a specialist module, Chemistry through the Computational Microscope, alongside your advanced organic, physical and inorganic chemistry studies. Optional modules include: Atoms, Molecules and Spin: Quantum Mechanics Chemistry and Spectroscopy; Medicinal Chemistry; Sustainable Chemistry.

Advanced practical projects and a literature-based research project on a computational chemistry topic will help you develop your research skills.

There are written examinations at the end of each semester to test your knowledge and understanding of material presented in the lectures and workshops. Many modules also have coursework components that feed into module marks as well. The coursework can take on a variety of forms from analysing data, to working through problem sets. The practical work is continuously assessed primarily through written reports.

A written literature review related to the project is assessed. Alongside these summative assessments are several formative pieces of work where feedback can be provided to allow for continuous improvement of your chemistry skills.

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

• Chemistry, Royal Society of