Chemistry plays an important role in our society. It is central to finding sustainable solutions to global problems. This includes developing new drugs and vaccines, researching clean energy resources, and feeding a growing population.
You'll be taught by experts who will feed your curiosity for this exciting subject. You may even recognise some of our staff from the popular Periodic Videos YouTube channel.
This degree explores real-world issues including health, energy and technology with a strong focus on sustainability. The year abroad gives you a global chemistry perspective, strengthens your communication skills and widens your cultural understanding.
Sustainable chemistry
Green and sustainable chemistry is a key research interest here at the University of Nottingham. We have active research in using chemistry as a tool to tackle global challenges. These challenges include developing benign synthesis for manufacture, decreasing our reliance on fossil fuels for power generation and how to develop next-generation materials that impact batteries and solar panels. On this degree, you can study optional modules in green and sustainable chemistry. These modules will give you an understanding of how to make chemical processes more environmentally friendly, and how to use chemistry to tackle environmental challenges.
International study year
You will have the opportunity to apply to study at one of our partner universities during year three. Benefits of studying abroad include:
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Gain a global perspective of chemistry
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A reduced tuition fee for the time you are abroad, with no fees payable to the host university
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Improve your communication skills, confidence and independence
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Explore a new culture and meet new people from all over the world
Recent examples of countries where partner institutions are located have included: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, USA, Ireland, New Zealand. All teaching is in English.
Fourth year research project
You can choose from a wide range of topics in chemistry for your research project, depending on your interests or career aspirations. This could be in green chemistry, medicinal chemistry, nanomaterials, spectroscopy, catalysis, photochemistry and much more. You will join one of our research groups to work on your chosen project. You will benefit from the active research and latest insight of these groups, as well as state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.
Careers and employability
The University of Nottingham is the third-most targeted university in the UK by leading employers (High Fliers' Graduate Market in 2025). A degree in chemistry will prepare you for a wide range of careers. You will develop the necessary academic and practical skills for a career in industry, whether that be in pharmaceutical, petrochemical, cosmetics or others. You will also develop your written and oral communication skills, and gain transferable skills such as problem-solving, numeracy and data analysis. A significant proportion of our students go onto postgraduate study.
Why choose this course?
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This course is accredited by the RSC. It fulfils the academic requirements for Chartered Chem (CChem).
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Choose from a range of optional modules that interest you
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Put theory into practice in our modern labs and facilities
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Flexibility to transfer between most chemistry degrees
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Benefit from small-group tutorials that support your learning
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Study abroad - You’ll have the opportunity to apply to study abroad and gain a global perspective of chemistry.
