Two students working together in a laboratory wearing protective white coats and glasses. Two students working together in a laboratory wearing protective white coats and glasses.

Available with:

  • Foundation Year
  • Placement Year

Course Summary

Our BSc in Chemistry provides you with a broad base of fundamental chemistry, and the practical skills to begin a rewarding career in science. We teach a combination of modern, practical chemistry and theory. You will be able to pick from departmental specialisms in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, environmental and sustainable chemistry, as well as industrial research. You will also gain practical work experience with industrial partners and academic staff. 

Why you'll Love it


What You'llStudy

Module content:

  • Reading and writing critically.
  • Constructing and evaluating an argument.
  • Note-taking techniques for reading and listening.
  • Understanding plagiarism and academic integrity.
  • Introduction to reflective practice.
  • Preparing for, and delivering, powerpoint presentations.
  • Referencing and citation.
  • Summarising and paraphrasing written sources.
  • Literature searching.
  • Report writing.
  • The culture and expectations of higher education.
  • The assessment process including the role of assessment criteria and feedback.
  • The nature of research journal publishing.

Whilst much of the content above is generic, students will be encouraged to situate skills within the context of the undergraduate discipline they are entering, which leads to some variation in emphasis for certain skills.


Module aims:

1.To raise awareness of the range of study skills required for successful higher education studies, including the process of academic writing, reading strategies, seminar skills, organisation of time and materials, planning for and meeting deadlines, understanding and responding to feedback.

2. To introduce students to concepts such as plagiarism, academic integrity and appropriate use of artificial intelligence tools.

3. To facilitate an effective transition into higher education by exploring, and providing guidance in, the key elements of successful undergraduate studentship including students' understanding of taking responsibility for their own learning.

4. To teach students how to undertake a literature, visual or data review for their discipline and be able to differentiate between a valid, reliable source and an unsubstantiated or irrelevant source.  

Module content:

  • Research and planning skills.
  • Becoming familiar with topics that comprise their undergraduate degree subject.
  • Developing a knowledge base for a discipline of study.
  • Identifying areas of interest.
  • Application and development of critical analytical skills.
  • Development of self-directed study.
  • Use of learning resources.

Module aims:

1. To develop students' skills in planning and writing an essay.

2. To familiarise students with the process of tutor supervision for a written piece of work.

3. To give students an opportunity to focus on a topic within their undergraduate degree subject.

4. To write a piece of work that allows the student to broaden and deepen knowledge on a topic of their choice.

5. To prepare and deliver an academic poster presentation outlining the student's research topic.

Module content:

 

  • Atomic structure and the use of atomic and mass numbers to describe elements and isotopes
  • Electronic configurations and energy levels
  • Trends in the Periodic Table
  • Describing chemical reactions using formulae, balanced equations and moles
  • Bonding and forces – ionic, metallic, covalent and intermolecular
  • Reaction types – redox and acid-base reactions
  • Organic chemistry – functional groups and some key reactions; aromatic compounds and isomers
  • Energy changes in chemical reactions
  • Equilibria and constants
  • Electrochemical cells
  • Reaction kinetics
  • Rate equations and orders of reaction

Module aims:

 

1. To provide a thorough grounding in inorganic chemistry

2. To introduce key ideas in organic chemistry

3. To examine the physical factors that influence inorganic and organic reactions at an industrial level

Module content:

  • Algebraic skills
  • Solving equations
  • Co-ordinating geometry, including points, lines and areas
  • Differentiation
  • Integration
  • Matrices
  • Sequences and series

 


Module aims:

1. To further develop skill in mathematical application, method and technique.

2. To prepare students with the mathematical skills required for undergraduate degrees in engineering and physical and mathematical sciences. 

Module content:

  • Background study and basic definitions
  • Particles I: The structure and properties of atoms
  • Particles II: The sub-atomic regime
  • Introduction to quantum phenomena e.g. the photo-electric effect
  • Radioactivity
  • Nuclear processes
  • Electricity and electric circuits
  • Electric fields and forces
  • Magnetic fields and forces
  • Waves I: Mathematical descriptions
  • Waves II: Electromagnetic waves
  • Waves III: Properties of optics including reflection, refraction and diffraction
  • Introduction to thermodynamics
  • The laws of gases

Module aims:

1. To provide the students with the knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of particle physics, electricity, magnetism, waves, thermodynamics, and gravitation in preparation for undergraduate study.

2. To develop students’ awareness of the applications of physics in real situations.

3. To develop modelling and problem solving skills as well as communicate effectively using scientific concepts and language.  

 

 

Module content:

  • Working with units and physical quantities
  • Trigonometry and basic mathematical concepts
  • Coordinates and vectors
  • Particle dynamics
  • Forces and Newton's laws of motion
  • Moments of forces
  • Centres of gravity and mass
  • Linear and projectile motion
  • Circular motion
  • Oscillations and simple harmonic motion
  • Work, Energy and Power
  • Impulse & Momentum
  • Newtonian theory of gravity

Module aims:

 

1. To introduce the relationships between forces, one and two dimensional types of motion, energy and momentum.

2. To develop students' understanding of mathematical modelling of force combinations, non-linear motion and non-uniform motion related to varying forces.

3. To adequately prepare students for the next levels of study on their undergraduate degree with reference to problem solving technique as a key feature of exams.

 

You will learn the fundamentals of chemistry and the supporting skills and methods for study, and you will have the opportunity to work with local companies.

Module content:

University Skills

  • Working in teams: roles and responsibilities, record-keeping, survival skills, peer assessment
  • Making and monitoring a plan
  • Report writing: technical and laboratory reports, structure, content, grammar, the importance of accurate referencing and avoidance of plagiarism
  • Effectively search a range of different information sources and critically evaluate for appropriateness for academic use. Understand the nature of research journal publishing and the importance of primary research findings to study of scientific/technology disciplines.

Professional Skills

  • Introduction to professional ethics
  • The role and responsibilities of the scientist and the engineer in society and in protecting the environment
  • The inter-disciplinary nature of engineering.
  • CV and cover letter writing

The Design Process

  • The design process: introduction to the key stages of research, concept, feasibility, requirements, preliminary design, detail design, production.

Module aims:

The purpose of this module is to ease the transition from school to university by setting the multi-disciplinary context and expectations of degree courses and careers in engineering and natural sciences.  Students will be introduced to design, which is the integrating theme that runs throughout engineering degrees, and has great relevance to scientists.

Students will be introduced to the transferable study skills that they will develop throughout their university career.  In particular, they will develop their communication skills, team-working skills, and they will understand the need to take responsibility for their own learning.

Module content:

Cells and biomolecules

  • Prokaryotes and cellular organisation in eukaryotes.
  • Structure and function of subcellular organelles.
  • Transcription and translation.
  • Structure and function of biological macromolecules.
  • Major classes of biological molecules - carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids.
  • Structure and function of proteins and enzyme catalysed reactions.
  • Stoichiometry and kinetics of microbial growth. 

Metabolism and signalling

  • Energy and carbon metabolism of autotrophs, heterotrophs, lithotrophs.
  • Principle pathways in cellular catabolism and anabolism. (Glycolysis, TCA cycle, calvin cycle, protein biosynthesis).
  • Thermodynamics of oxidative phosphorylation and electron transport reactions coupled to cofactors (ATP and NADH).
  • Control and regulation of metabolic flux.
  • Cell membranes and signalling pathways. 

Cell factories and biotechnology

  • Major products of modern biotechnology
  • Key bioprocessing operations used in commercial product manufacture including: Upstream cell and media production including recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering processes of chemical and physical transfection; Bio-reactor types; Fermentation and growth kinetics including scalability / upscaling; Purification; Cell disruption; Concentration and harvesting
  • Metabolic engineering and synthetic biology.

Module aims:

The material on Cells and biomolecules provides the necessary introductory background information to acquaint students with molecular bioscience relevant to modern biotechnology and bioprocesses rather than physiological biology at the organism level. 

An understanding of cell Metabolism and signalling is essential for modern biotechnology. In this part of the module, students will be imbued with an appreciation of the unifying features of the main metabolic networks common to life. The control exerted over these metabolic networks via signalling and regulation of gene expression is also covered in some detail since this is a prerequisite for cell engineering strategies which are developed in the final part of the module - Cell factories and biotechnology. This final material looks at the full range of existing bioprocesses – some of which are quite traditional – but also introduces cutting edge approaches of modern genomics and computational techniques.

Module content:

The electron in atoms, the classical picture of the atom, and the modern model of the atom.

The main theories of bonding and concepts including atomic and molecular orbitals, quantum numbers, linear combination of atomic orbitals and an introduction to atomic and molecular spectroscopy.

Introduction to chemical thermodynamics including the zeroth, first and second law and the drivers of chemical reactivity including a the concepts of chemical equilibrium and an introduction to equilibrium electrochemistry. 

The module also contains an introduction to chemical kinetics.


Module aims:

Physical chemistry is study of interactions of molecules with the physical world and the theories that underpin that behaviour. The aims of the module are to give a theoretical foundation of knowledge and understanding underpinning the behaviour of the electron in atoms, the major theories of bonding and relationships between energy, speed of reactions, heat and work.

Module content:

The module will cover the basis of organic chemistry. Topic covered will include:

  • Nomenclature of organic molecules
  • Chemical bonding, hybridization and molecule shape
  • Reaction mechanisms; substitution, elimination and addition 
  • Alkane, alkenes and alkynes reactivity
  • Carbonyl chemistry
  • stereochemistry
  • Introduction to computing in organic chemistry

Module aims:

This module aims to provide students with core knowledge in organic chemistry with focus on molecular shape, functional groups reactivity and basic reaction mechanisms.

Module content:

Quantitative Key Skills:

  • Volumetric calculations required for titrations in analytical chemistry
  • Algebraic manipulation and functions needed for further study in chemistry
  • Elementary geometry
  • Data representation in graphs and data manipulation in data analysis programs
  • Basic idea of a derivative and an integral for use in physical chemistry
  • Basic statistics including data and error analysis

Practical Key Skills:

  • Basic laboratory skills
  • Experimental techniques relevant to organic, physical, inorganic and analytical chemistry
  • Collating, analyzing and presenting data in the form of a laboratory report

General Key Skills:

  • Working safely in a laboratory
  • Chemical databases, literature searching and referencing
  • Statistical analysis of experimental data
  • Academic integrity
  • Aspects of chemical research
  • Presentation skills

Module aims:

The aim of this module is to equip students with the quantitative transferable and practical skills needed for the first year of study on a chemistry programme.

Module content:

Module content may include:

  • Introduction to structure and bonding in inorganic chemistry
  • Structure of simple solids and materials
  • Acids and bases
  • Transition metal chemistry

Module aims:

The aim of this module is to give students an understanding of the fundamental principles underlying inorganic chemistry. The module will engage prior knowledge and understanding and introduce new concepts and establish a sound basis for further study.

You will learn more of the specialist techniques and theories in chemistry. You will also build on your professional networks by completing an assessed placement.

Module content:

Topics in inorganic chemistry

  • Main group chemistry including the chemistry of groups 13-18
  • An introduction to molecular symmetry and group theory
  • Experimental techniques in inorganic chemistry

Topics in organic chemistry

  • Advanced methods of organic synthesis and retro-synthesis
  • Advanced mechanistic aspects of organic reactions
  • Organometallic chemistry and use of organometallic reagents
  • Sustainable chemistry and catalysis
  • Industrial applications of organic chemistry

Advanced practical chemistry

  • Designing experiments
  • Applied practical chemistry
  • Advanced critical data analysis

Module aims:

Topics in organic and inorganic chemistry will address various topics in organic and inorganic chemistry, including an introduction to organometallics and catalysis, and approaches towards a more sustainable use of chemistry. It will include the application of chemistry in industrial settings. Various approaches to chemical synthesis and the understanding of the underlying theoretical principles will be covered in connection with real-world applications.

Advanced practical chemistry will extend the students competence in practical chemistry in connection with the underlying theoretical concepts. It will also train students in critical data analysis and the planing and designing of experiments.

Module content:

  • Biology of ageing
  • Healthy ageing
  • Cardiovascular disease and lipid metabolism.
  • Folate metabolism
  • Metabolic imprinting
  • Epigenetics and ageing
  • Bioinformatics – use of databases and tools for comparison of DNA and protein sequences.
  • Statistical analysis using R.
  • Programming using Python
  • Systems Biology modelling of metabolic pathways.

Module aims:

The aim of this module is to give students on the biological/chemical side of natural sciences a grounding in the modern tools and technologies that are being used to understand the mechanisms of disease and the effect of diet on human health and ageing. These technologies are widely used in commercial and institutional research settings.

Module content:

 

  • Second Law: treatment of reversible and irreversible processes, corollaries of second law, definitions of entropy and isentropic processes
  • Mass and Energy Transfer:Extension of principles to non-steady-state and reacting systems
  • Combustion: Thermodynamics of reacting systems. Definition of standard states. First law analysis of reacting systems including dissociation. Use of combustion tables, solution of various types of combustion problems
  • Cycles: Different types of engineering cycles. Methods of improving cycle efficiency
  • Energy Use: Theoretical limits on energy efficiency. Sources and sinks and implications for environment. Opportunities for and implications of energy efficiency.
  • Chemical thermodynamics - equations of state and phase equilibria for pure fluids, phase equilibria in fluid mixtures, reaction equilibria

Module aims:

Thermodynamics is the science that deals with energy interactions in physical systems.  The purpose of this module is to extend the basic principles heat, work and energy then apply this knowledge to real engineering problems, and also to introduce chemical thermodynamics - the interaction of heat and work with changes of state and chemical reaction.

Module content:

Introduction to Chemical Analysis 

  • Instrumental vs. classical techniques.
  • Detection limits, sensitivity, dynamic range, precision and accuracy.
  • Statistical analysis
  • Elemental Analysis: Atomic absorption spectroscopy. X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. Inductively coupled plasma techniques.

Molecular Spectroscopy

  • UV & visible spectroscopy.
  • Mass spectrometry.

Separations and Chromatography

  • Gas & liquid Chromatography.
  • Hyphenated techniques: GC-MS, LC-MS, GC-GC.

Module aims:

Introduction to Chemical Analysis

Students will be introduced to the concept of chemical analysis as a structured approach involving element identification, chemical structure determination, and (in the case of solids) spatial location. The dominance of instrumental techniques in the modern analytical laboratory is emphasised, and illustrated by the varying approaches to elemental analysis depending upon the sensitivity and detection limits required.

Molecular Spectroscopy

The content of this section of the course forms a basic introduction to the three major techniques of molecular spectroscopy.In all three cases, the content covers the underlying scientific principles, and introduction to the instrumentation used, and guidance on interpretation of the resulting spectra.

Separations and Chromatography

Separation of complex mixtures into their constituent components is a vital pre-requisite in chemical analysis.Students will be introduced to the principles of liquid and gas chromatography techniques, and the use of these methods in conjunction with molecular spectroscopy (so-called hyphenated techniques) is touched upon.

Module content:

Microscopy

  • Optical Microscopy, including image formation, contrast techniques (bright/dark field, phase & interference contrast), fluorescence techniques.  Digital image acquisition.
  • Electron Microscopy: Scanning electron microscopy secondary & backscattered electron image formation.  Transmission electron microscopy bright/dark field & STEM modes.  Electron diffraction in the TEM.

Characterisation of Solids

  • X-ray analysis in electron microscopy (SEM-EDX)
  • X-ray diffraction, including crystal lattice & lattice systems; Miller Indices, planes & directions; point and space groups; X-ray scattering, Braggs Law, reciprocal space; powder diffraction.
  • Introduction to surface techniques.

On-line and at-line techniques

  • Introduction to the concept of on-line and at-line measurements for process control in industrial plant.
  • NIR and Chemometrics.

Module aims:

Microscopy is fundamental to our understanding of the structure and behaviour of physical and biological systems and as such is an essential tool for the Natural Scientist.  The principle techniques of optical microscopy are studied and comapred for different applications and specimen types, with their advantages and limitations reviewed.  This is extended to electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) where the concept of analysis in-situ in the microscope is introduced.    The recently-developed scanned probe techniques of AFM and STM are also covered.

Solids characterisation presents many challenges that are not present in liquids and cannot be tackled by conventioanl analytical chemistry methods. The concept of a solid as a mixed multi-phase material is introduced and methods for characterisation on the micro- and nano-scale are explored. The analysis of crystalline solids by X-ray diffraction is developed, and principle crystal systems and the concept of the reciprocal lattice are covered.  Surface-specific methods are also introduced and critically reviewed.

An introduction to automated and on- or at-line techniques is included, leading to the concept of proxy measurements and the use of chemometrics.

Module content:

The traditional academic programme structure is not applicable in this experiential learning internship opportunity. The placement content is freely structured and subject to negotiation between the student, the host organisation and the placement supervisor. 

A mid placement conference will be used for a mid term assessment and facilitate the student's transition between the placement year and their return to University for their final year. The conference will enable students to share experiences and analyse the range of skills derived from the placement. It will also further develop the construction of their learning logs and portfolio and give opportunities to plan ahead for their final year projects/dissertations. 


Module aims:

To provide students with an opportunity for first hand work experience in an industrial setting and to experience a broad range of tasks and responsibilities in different professional areas. 

To allow students to apply and enrich their previous theoretical knowledge and understanding of course content through observation and application to tasks, problems and scenarios presented in an industrial environment.

To enable students to recognise the nature of tasks, workloads, management problems and working methods in the working environment.

To enable students identify their personal interests  in a working environment and develop their own personal development.

Module content:

The module content will include:

  • The colloidal state (definition, preparation and classification)
  • Kinetic properties of colloidal systems
  • Charge and stability in colloidal systems
  • Interfacial phenomena
  • Micelles, emulsions, micro-emulsions, foams and aerosols
  • Polymers in solution, at interfaces and the effect of polymers on colloidal stability
  • The wetting of surfaces
  • Techniques in colloid and surface chemistry

Module aims:

Students will be introduced to phenomena occurring in the colloidal state and at interfaces. It will include the classification, structural characteristics and preparation of colloidal systems. This will lead to discussions involving the kinetic properties of colloids including micellar, micro-emulsion and emulsion systems. Finally the student will learn about adsorption of molecules at interfaces and techniques used to study such adsorption.

Module content:

Principles of spectroscopy: 

A range of spectroscopy techniques such as NMR, ESR, IR, Raman, rotational spectroscopy, UV/vis and luminescence will be discussed, covering their physical theoretical background and their application in chemical structural analysis. Applications of these techniques to real life situations will be given, e.g. for the characterisation of materials to the elucidation of biochemical processes.

Spectroscopy techniques for the identification of synthetic or natural products.

This part of the course provides a thorough introduction to experiment design and the development of strategies that can be applied to the identification and characterisation of chemical compounds. The students will receive guided training on the scope and limitations of the different spectroscopy techniques and develop an understanding for the complementarity of the information content of these techniques.


Module aims:

This module aims to provide knowledge and critical understanding of the key concepts associated with spectroscopy, concentrating on a series of techniques that are frequently used as analytical tools in a wide range of areas, in research and industrial applications. 

During the course of study students will be supported and encouraged to discuss practical examples of how spectroscopy is used to solve real life problems in a series of settings. The focus will be on the recognition of the scope and limitations of each methods, and how different methods complement each other in their information content.

The practical part will extend the students competence in the application of experimental techniques in connection with the underlying theoretical concepts, and enhance their understanding of more particular subjects of study. It will also train the students in critical data analysis and the planning and designing of experiments. 

Module content:

Pre-placement:

  • Structured approaches to researching, selecting and securing a suitable work placement relevant to the student’s interests and career aspirations*.
  • Writing an effective CV. Constructing a letter of application.*
  • Interview skills.*

 *Note: Students are required to undertake these pre-placement tasks during term 1 level 5, as part of the placement acquisition process and will be supported by the Work Based Learning team and the Careers and Employability department.

 Induction Programme and Placement:

  • The organisational context: research-informed analysis of the placement organisation’s aims, structure, culture.
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess. (Employability Skills: e.g. verbal and written communication, analytical / problem solving capabilities; self-management; team working behaviours; negotiation skills; influencing people; positive attitude, resilience, building rapport).
  • Devising a strategy for integrating into the workplace and work based teams
  • Completion of online assignment tasks covering sourcing and obtaining placement; health and safety procedures in general; general workplace integrity; placement requirements. 

During and post-placement: Learning effectively in and from the workplace:- 

  • Devising and implementing strategies to improve own approach and performance
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of approach to skill development and performance in the workplace;
  • Influencing the Placement Provider’s appraisal;
  • Devising an action plan to develop gaps in transferable skills based on the placement experiences;

Module aims:

This module aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining graduate level employment through engagement with a University approved work placement**, which will enable them to:

  • Develop their understanding of workplace practice and lifelong learning;
  • Enhance their work readiness and employability prospects through development of transferable skills;
  • Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of workplace employability skills;
  • Articulate, in writing, their employability skills.

Module content:

  • The organisational context: research-informed analysis of the sector’s role, development opportunities or career paths.
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess. (Employability Skills: e.g. verbal and written communication, analytical / problem solving capabilities; self-management; team working behaviours; negotiation skills; influencing people; developing a positive work attitude, resilience, building rapport with co-workers).
  • Devising strategies to improve one’s own career.
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired.
  • Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.

Module aims:

This module aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining graduate level employment, which will enable them to:-

  • Enhance their work readiness and employability prospects through identifying relevant transferable skills for their chosen career path,
  • Clearly articulate their career plans and take steps to prepare for their first graduate role,
  • Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of workplace employability skills,
  • Articulate, in writing, their employability skills.

You will start to specialise in the topics that really excite you. These include topics in medicinal chemistry, sustainable chemistry and energy chemistry.

Module content:

Students are free to choose any area of study that is related to their degree programme, provided that the department is able to supervise and resource the project.  As such, the specific content of each project will vary, but in general an honours level project will be designed to facilitate testing of a hypothesis by experimental, observational, computational or theoretical means and will include such activities as planning, project management, information retrieval, equipment or software design and testing, the generation and evaluation of data, reporting and presentation of the results and conclusions  Students are expected to conduct their work in a simulated professional environment and so industry based projects are encouraged. Academic staff will also suggest possible areas of study. 

The project choices will be finalised at the beginning of the academic year.  The final choices are subject to approval by the department who will make an assessment of the suitability of the project with respect to its content and deliverables.  Regular meetings with the project supervisor throughout the project will ensure that students are able to develop their understanding of the relevant ideas in their chosen subject area. 

Projects will typically include: a clear statement of objectives and deliverables; evidence of project planning and time/resource management; a survey of relevant published literature; design/manufacture/assembly of equipment; appropriate experiments, use of software or simulation; analysis and discussion of results; conclusions relative to the agreed objectives, and identification of further work.  The analysis will also include a health, safety and ethical assessment and an evaluation of the environmental impacts of the activity. 

The assessment methods for this module will allow the students the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to communicate complex technical information in a clear and unambiguous form.


Module aims:

The individual project provides students with a learning experience that will enable them to integrate many of the subjects they have studied throughout their degree.  Students are expected to plan, research and execute their task while developing skills in independent thought, independent work and scientific competence.  Students will also gain experience in presenting and reporting a major piece of scientific work, of immediate value, at a level appropriate for an honours degree student.

Module content:

Commercial and Economic Operations: 

  • Organisation of a company: Types of companies, elements of company law, sources of financing.
  • Financial environment: Illustrative topics: microeconomics, macroeconomics, inflation, GDP, market structure, monopolies, fiscal policy
  • Financial Accounting: Illustrative topics: Source of Finance, Income Statement, Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow, Ratio Analysis.
  • Management Accounting: Illustrative topics: Elements of cost, marginal and standard costs, break-even analysis, overhead absorption, ABC costing, budgets.
  • Economics management in operation: Cost classifications, contribution margin and breakeven analysis,
  • Project analysis: time value of money, ROI, payback, NPV, IRR, Risk and uncertainty
  • Strategic initiatives: Illustrative topics: Target costing, balanced scorecards, throughput accounting, the international dimension of business operations
  • Industrial legislation: Illustrative topics: Health and Safety at Work Act, COSHH, risk assessment, elements of contract law, sale of goods, employment and IPR, Tort of Negligence (product safety and liability, professional negligence, neighbour principle)

Professional Ethics 

  • Professional conduct: the Institutions, chartered status, continuing professional development, discrimination, ethical responsibilities, technology and employment – the changing face of society and the engineer and scientists role 
  • Embedding sustainable practices within business processes
  • Environmental impact of business processes
  • Business operation and social responsibility 

Module aims:

The aim of this module is to equip students with an awareness of the wider commercial and economic context of engineering operations.  Students will gain an understanding of strategic, operational, environmental and ethical issues as they impact and guide the business practice of professional engineers and scientists. Students will apply knowledge and analysis to specific issues and dilemmas affecting individuals and organisations is science and engineering businesses.

Module content:

This module provides an examination of the processes, methods, techniques and tools that can be used to manage projects. It gives the student systematic methodologies for initiating, planning, executing, controlling, closing and reviewing projects effectively. The module provides an introduction to a variety of project management techniques, including:

  • Projects in Contemporary Organisations
  • Project Evaluation and Selection
  • The Project Manager
  • Project Organisation
  • Project Planning
  • Budgeting and Scheduling
  • Resource allocation
  • Project control
  • Project Evaluation and Auditing

Students will learn how about the role of the project manager, analyse the need for project planning and scheduling, examine budgeting and resource allocation for projects, and learn about methods of project control and evaluation.


Module aims:

The course covers a broad array of project management principles and practices, ranging from network techniques, Gantt chart creation, auditing, and control methodologies.

By the end of this module, you will be equipped with a wide range of knowledge and attributes, including improved decision making and problem solving ability. You will gain practical experience of tasks such as the critical path method, the creation of Gantt charts in Microsoft project, and resource allocation, which will prepare you to deal with complex production situations.

Module content:

The module content may include:

Solid State Chemistry:

  • Introduction to bonding in solids

    Electronic properties of solids – metals, insulators and semi-conductors

    Introduction to superconductivity

    Ionic conductivity and its applications

    Magnetism in solids

f-block chemistry:

  • An introduction to lanthanide chemistry including atomic and electronic structure
  • An overview of lanthanide applications
  • An introduction to lanthanide oxidation states and chemical bonding
  • An introduction to actinide chemistry including occurrence in nature and man-made actinides
  • Discussions regarding actinide electronic structure, oxidation states, chemical bonding and selected chemistry

Module aims:

Students will be introduced to solid state chemistry. Students will also be introduced, and given a general overview of, the chemistry and physical properties of the f-block elements.

Module content:

Course Content:

The module will cover include an in-depth look at fundamental electrochemistry topics which may include;

  • Fundamental Equations
  • Factors affecting rate and current
  • Electrochemical Cells
  • Electrochemical experiments

It may also include the study of applications of electrochemistry within an energy storage and generation framework, which may include

  • Fuel Cells
  • Flow Batteries

It may also include further topics in advanced physical chemistry such as photochemistry, atmospheric chemistry, environmental engineering and nano-science.


Module aims:

The overall aim of the module is to extend the previous knowledge of physical chemistry and to ensure that students are aware of and can apply their knowledge to topical areas of chemical science especially the chemistry of energy storage.

Module content:

The module will cover the following aspects:

1- The process of drug discovery: Introduce students to

  •  Hit to lead discovery process and different ways to modify leads by improving their properties and activity relating that to their structures.
  • The various stages of drug discovery from identifying the target up to clinical trial and regulatory consideration.
  • Drug discovery from natural products
  • In vitro and in vivo testing and drug efficacy.
  •  Drug resistance and pro-drugs

2- Drug targets: This unit will discuss the major drug targets with case studies from the literature

  •  Enzymes
  •  Receptors
  •  DNA

3- Drug synthesis and identification: synthetic pathway for selected drug classes and their structure identification

4- Pharmacokinetics and metabolism:

Introduces students to the physicochemical properties of drug substances, drug absorbance, transport, distribution and clearance.

5- Computational chemistry and molecular modeling

Introduces students to molecular modeling and the role it plays in drug design covering the process of hit identification using 3D presentation of the target molecule, ligand design, docking and virtual screening in addition to molecular dynamics and QSAR.


Module aims:

The aim of this module is to provide students with the core knowledge of the principles of drug design and action from a chemical perspective through covering the main aspects of:

  • Lead discovery and modification
  • Drug targets
  • Drug synthesis
  • Pharmacokinetics and metabolism
  • Computational chemistry and its use in rational drug design

Module content:

Sustainable Chemistry

  • The principle of atom economy and sustainability metrics, with examples from different areas of chemical synthesis. Resource-friendly reaction planning and retro-synthesis. 
  • Alternative feedstocks for chemical synthesis.
  • The use of new technologies in chemical synthesis: promoting reactions with microwaves or ultrasound.

Catalysis

  • General principles of catalysis in terms of reaction mechanisms and energetics.
  • Catalyst performance, TON, TOF and other characteristic parameters.
  • Organometallic chemistry and transition metal complexes for homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis. Elemental reactions in catalysis.
  • Enatioselective catalysis with examples.
  • Large scale technical processes, exemplified by Hydroformylation, Shop process, Monsanto/Cativa process and others.
  • Enzyme catalysis, mechanisms and applications.

Module aims:

The overall aim of this module is to extend previous chemical knowledge into modern day applications and provide the basis for further self-directed learning to meet the needs for subsequent graduate work.

Sustainable Chemistry focuses on rising the students awareness for environmental issues and their ability to critically assess the sustainability of chemical processes. It introduces into the strategies chemists can adopt to reduce the negative environmental impact of chemical processes and to use resources responsibly.

The teaching of Catalysis extends the molecular understanding of chemical and biochemical reactions from level 4 and 5. It also gives a deeper understanding of the reactivity and practical applications of transition metal compounds discussed in level 5 and applies this to more complex problems. Students are expected to recognise the industrial importance of catalysis for the production of everyday products and appreciate current developments towards more sustainable approaches.

BSc (Hons) Chemistry

Chemistry at the University of Chester

How you'll Learn

We believe that the traditional examination is not the only way to assess a student’s ability in chemistry. You can expect to be assessed using a variety of methods including laboratory reports, podcast recording, poster and oral presentations in addition to the traditional in- person examination.

Beyond the Classroom

On this course, you have the opportunity to spend five weeks working for a host organisation via our innovative  Work Based Learning module. You’ll have the chance to test-drive a future career, boost your CV and gain real work experience.

Our Experiential Overseas Learning module offers a unique opportunity to participate in a short-term placement around the world. 
 
This course offers the exciting opportunity to study abroad for a full academic year at one of our bilateral exchange partners or through ISEP (International Student Exchange Programs), a network of over 300 additional higher education institutions worldwide. 

If you choose a degree with a Placement Year, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a year’s paid professional placement at the end of your second year, where you’ll experience the workplace, apply your learning and build connections for your future.  

Entry Requirements

112 UCAS Points

UCAS Tariff

112 points

GCE A Level

Typical offer – BCC-BBC

Must include A Level Chemistry

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma will be considered alongside A Level Chemistry

International Baccalaureate

26 points, including 5 in HL Chemistry  

Irish / Scottish Highers

Irish Highers: H3 H3 H3 H3 H4, including Chemistry

Scottish Highers: BBBB including Chemistry

Access requirements

Access to HE Diploma (Science), to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above (of which 15 must be in Chemistry)

T Level

T Level will be considered alongside A Level Chemistry

OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR Extended Diploma will be considered alongside A Level Chemistry

Extra Information

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer.  We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs.

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

For more information on our entry requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements

72 UCAS Points

UCAS Tariff

72 points

GCE A level

72 points overall, including grade D in A level Chemistry

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma will be considered alongside A Level Chemistry

International Baccalaureate

24 points, including 4 in HL Chemistry  

Irish / Scottish Highers

Irish Highers: H4 H4 H4 H4 H4, including Chemistry

Scottish Highers: CCDD including Chemistry

Access requirements

Access to HE Diploma (Science) – Pass overall (must include Chemistry at Level 3)

T Level

T Level Diploma will be considered alongside A Level Chemistry

OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR Extended Diploma will be considered alongside A Level Chemistry

Extra Information

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer.  We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs. If you are a mature student (21 or over) and have been out of education for a while or do not have experience or qualifications at Level 3 (equivalent to A Levels), then our Foundation Year courses will help you to develop the skills and knowledge you will need to succeed in your chosen degree. 

Where you'll study Exton Park, Chester

Fees and Funding

£9,250 per year (2024/25)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2024/25 are £9,250 a year, or £1,540 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

The University may increase these fees at the start of each subsequent year of your course in line with inflation at that time, as measured by the Retail Price Index. These fee levels and increases are subject to any necessary government, and other regulatory, approvals.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Following the UK’s exit from the EU, students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU starting in or after the 2021/22 academic year will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

£13,950 per year (2024/25)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2024/25 are £13,950. 

This fee is set for each year of study. All undergraduate students are eligible for international and merit-based scholarships which are applicable to each year of study.  

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes. 

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees. 

If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills. 

Staying loyal to our “minimum additional costs” philosophy, the Faculty covers in full the following costs: 

  • Core textbooks for the first year 
  • Software licences provided for academic use 
  • All PPE equipment provided by the Faculty 
  • Lab coats, safety glasses, ear defenders, steel toe cap boots etc. as required 
  • UK field trips and other educational visits 
  • Photocopying/Printing costs at annual allowance 
  • Student membership of professional institutes 

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all our students. Most students from our Department enter the chemical industry, usually in positions that follow on from successful placements.  

Our graduates are successful in industry as well as other sectors, such as finance and education. Over the last few years, graduates from our Department have secured roles such as: 

  • Formulation Scientist, Unilever 
  • Atmospheric Chemist, University of Birmingham 
  • Air Traffic Controller, Royal Air Force 
  • Research and Development Scientist, Motrac Engineering Ltd 
  • Chemistry teacher, Cheshire 

Progression options

Many students choose to continue studying for an MSc or PhD. 

Careers service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.