Chemistry

Chemists tackle global challenges in health, energy, and sustainability. This course blends problem-solving, communication, and lab skills — taught by top researchers — to prepare you for diverse, impactful careers in chemistry.

Top for student satisfaction
Number one in the UK for student satisfaction with teaching and for feedback in the Guardian Best Universities Guide 2025.

Practical experience
With hands-on experience in our modern laboratories from week one, our course is designed to enhance your skills and make you workplace ready.

Connected to Industry
Experience chemistry in the real world with a placement. Many students take placements and gain employment with global industries.

This course is for you if...

• you are passionate about Chemistry and want to make a difference in the world

• you enjoy hands-on practical experience

• you thrive in a friendly and supportive teaching environment

• you are keen to experience working with the latest analytical instrumentation.

Course Modules

Year 1: Ignite your chemical curiosity
From the moment you step into our labs in the first week, you'll embark on a journey of chemical discovery. Forget passive learning – dive into dynamic workshops, engaging lectures, interactive tutorials, and hands-on practical sessions that will ignite your passion for chemistry. We'll equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to not just understand, but master core chemical principles and problem-solving. You'll become adept with IT and a maestro of cutting-edge laboratory techniques. More than just academic, we'll empower you to cultivate the personal and professional skills that will make you a sought-after innovator in the scientific world. Prepare to be transformed from a student into a budding chemist, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow!

Year 2: Unleash your chemical potential
Building upon the foundation you've forged, you'll delve into the captivating depths of organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. This isn't just about memorising theories; it's about understanding how chemistry shapes the world around us. You'll become a master of advanced instrumentation, wielding the tools that drive scientific breakthroughs. You'll learn to tackle real-world chemical problems, building the confidence and expertise to lead ground-breaking projects. More than just a student, you'll become a collaborative problem-solver, honing the teamwork skills essential for success in any scientific environment. You'll start designing your own future, preparing to take the next step towards your professional dreams.

Optional placement year
Enrich your course-based learning by undertaking a year in industry, putting your learning into practice in real-world situations, or use a placement to support your chemistry research project.
Chemistry permeates many aspects of business and society and, as a result, our students have secured placements in diverse companies and organisation, both in the UK and further afield.

Examples of previous placements include:
GlaxoSmithKline; Diageo R&D, Scotland; University of Rennes, France; CSIRO, Perth, Australia; Eden Project, Cornwall; Plymouth Marine Laboratory; University of Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Shepherd University, USA.

Final year: Become a chemical innovator
This is your year to shine! You'll transcend the boundaries of traditional learning, exploring contemporary chemical issues at an advanced level. This isn't just about studying chemistry; it's about living it. You'll refine your practical skills and master project management as you plan and execute an exciting research project with a chemical specialist. You'll wield the latest instrumentation, pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and paving your way for a successful career. And for those seeking real-world experiences, an exciting work-based learning placement in the industry awaits. This is your chance to become the chemical innovator you were meant to be, leaving your mark on the world of science!

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

• Chemistry, Royal Society of