Teaching methods
- Computer labs
- Lab sessions
- Lectures
- Placements
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
University Park Campus, Nottingham, UK
UK students, apply online now or call us on 0330 041 5590 if you have Clearing queries.
International students, contact us through our enquiry form.
Qualification | Start Date | UCAS code | Duration | Fees |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSci Hons | September 2024 | CF71 | 4 Years full-time | £9,250 per year |
Qualification | Start Date | UCAS code | Duration | Fees |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSci Hons | September 2024 | CF71 | 4 Years full-time | £9,250 per year |
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
"On this course you may be able to spend a year working in industry where you could gain first-hand experience of exciting challenges and refine the skills you have built so far in the course. While it is the student’s responsibility to find and secure a year in industry host, the university will support you throughout this process.
Please note:
In order to undertake an integrated year in industry, you will have to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the University and meet any requirements specified by the industry host. There is no guarantee that you will be able to undertake an integrated year in industry as part of your course. If you are studying a course with an integrated year in industry and you do not secure an integrated year in industry opportunity, you will be required to transfer to the version of the course without an integrated year in industry. This will be reflected in the title of your degree when you graduate. "
Please be aware that study abroad, compulsory year abroad, optional placements/internships and integrated year in industry opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities or placement/industry hosts, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the University’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur.
"On this course you may be able to spend a year working in industry where you could gain first-hand experience of exciting challenges and refine the skills you have built so far in the course. While it is the student’s responsibility to find and secure a year in industry host, the university will support you throughout this process.
Please note:
In order to undertake an integrated year in industry, you will have to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the University and meet any requirements specified by the industry host. There is no guarantee that you will be able to undertake an integrated year in industry as part of your course. If you are studying a course with an integrated year in industry and you do not secure an integrated year in industry opportunity, you will be required to transfer to the version of the course without an integrated year in industry. This will be reflected in the title of your degree when you graduate. "
Please be aware that study abroad, compulsory year abroad, optional placements/internships and integrated year in industry opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities or placement/industry hosts, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the University’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur.
*For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.
If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget alongside your tuition fees and living expenses, such as an examination-approved scientific calculator and a molecular model kit (optional).
You should be able to access many of the textbooks you will need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies. Due to our commitment to sustainability, we do not print lecture notes, but digital copies are available for download. You will be given five pounds worth of printer credits a year. You are welcome to buy more credits if you need them. It costs 4p to print one black and white page.
The university recommends you have a suitable laptop to work on when on or off campus. If you already have a device, it is unlikely you will need a new one in the short term. If you are looking into buying a new device, we recommend you buy a Windows laptop, as it is more flexible and many software packages you will need are only compatible with Windows. While you will not need a very powerful computer, it is wise to choose one that will last.
The University has prepared a set of recommended specifications to help you choose a suitable laptop. If you are experiencing financial difficulties and you are struggling to manage your costs, the Hardship Funds may be able to assist you. There are computer labs on campus and many are open 24 hours a day. A small number of laptops are available to borrow.
The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help.
International students
We offer a range of international undergraduate scholarships for high-achieving international scholars who can put their Nottingham degree to great use in their careers.
*For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.
If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget alongside your tuition fees and living expenses, such as an examination-approved scientific calculator and a molecular model kit (optional).
You should be able to access many of the textbooks you will need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies. Due to our commitment to sustainability, we do not print lecture notes, but digital copies are available for download. You will be given five pounds worth of printer credits a year. You are welcome to buy more credits if you need them. It costs 4p to print one black and white page.
The university recommends you have a suitable laptop to work on when on or off campus. If you already have a device, it is unlikely you will need a new one in the short term. If you are looking into buying a new device, we recommend you buy a Windows laptop, as it is more flexible and many software packages you will need are only compatible with Windows. While you will not need a very powerful computer, it is wise to choose one that will last.
The University has prepared a set of recommended specifications to help you choose a suitable laptop. If you are experiencing financial difficulties and you are struggling to manage your costs, the Hardship Funds may be able to assist you. There are computer labs on campus and many are open 24 hours a day. A small number of laptops are available to borrow.
The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help.
Home students*
Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary, worth up to £1,000 a year. Full details can be found on our financial support pages.
* A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.
Chemistry plays an important role in our society. It is central to developing drugs, creating vaccines and treating illnesses.
You will explore the interplay between chemistry and biology to develop an understanding of human disease and drug design. The course focuses on core chemistry with modules in physiology and pharmacology. In these modules, you’ll learn about drug delivery, metabolism and targeting, drug structures and toxicities and cancer agents.
Mandatory
Year 1
Introduction to Structure, Periodicity and Coordination Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 1
Introduction to Spectroscopy, Energy and Bonding in Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 1
Introduction to Organic Molecules and their Reactivity
Mandatory
Year 1
Foundation Laboratory Work
Mandatory
Year 1
Chemistry Study Skills
Mandatory
Year 1
Calculations in Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 1
Human Physiology
Optional
Year 1
Molecules of Life
Optional
Year 1
Introduction to Green Chemistry and Processing
Optional
Year 1
Frontiers in Chemistry
Optional
Year 1
Mathematical Toolkit
Mandatory
Year 2
General Inorganic Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 2
Synthesis and Spectroscopy
Mandatory
Year 2
Core Laboratory Work
Mandatory
Year 2
Energy, Spectroscopy and Solid State Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 2
Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics
Mandatory
Year 2
Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Biology
Mandatory
Year 3
Industry Placement
Mandatory
Year 3
Inorganic Chemistry Distance Learning
Mandatory
Year 3
Organic Chemistry Distance Learning
Mandatory
Year 3
Physical Chemistry Distance Learning
Mandatory
Year 4
MSci Chemistry Research Project
Optional
Year 4
Advanced Physical Chemistry
Optional
Year 4
Contemporary Organic Synthesis
Optional
Year 4
Nucleic Acids and Bioorganic Mechanisms
Optional
Year 4
Inorganic and Materials Chemistry
Optional
Year 4
Molecular Interactions and Supramolecular Assembly
Optional
Year 4
Enterprise for Chemists
Optional
Year 4
Advanced Biocatalysis, Biosynthesis and Chemical Biology
The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer, but is not intended to be construed or relied on as a definitive list of what might be available in any given year. This content was last updated on Tuesday 3 October 2023. Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.
This module builds on your previous studies in chemistry and provides a firm foundation in topics including:
You’ll attend two lectures per week for this module.
In this module you will learn about the development of quantum theory and the spectroscopy of the hydrogen atom. You will examine the theories used to describe the bonding in molecules and will develop an understanding of microwave and infra-red spectroscopies.
The module also introduces you to some of the key concepts in thermodynamics including enthalpy, entropy and free energy and their application in describing equilibria and electrochemical processes. You will develop an understanding of the key concepts in reaction kinetics.
You’ll attend two lectures per week for this module.
You’ll examine the fundamental principles of organic chemistry. This will include nomenclature, bonding concepts, orbitals and the shape, stereochemistry and acid-base properties of organic molecules.
Later the module will focus on reactivity and important reactions and transformations in organic chemistry.
You’ll attend two lectures per week for this module.
This module introduces you to the essential laboratory skills that are required in inorganic, organic and physical chemistry.
You’ll spend around eight hours per week in laboratory practicals performing experiments, and collecting and analysing data.
You’ll present written reports of your experimental work that will form part of the assessment for this module.
You’ll follow this introductory module right at the start of your course. It is designed to develop your study skills so that you can work effectively at University.
The module will also introduce you to first-year undergraduate laboratory chemistry.
You’ll spend around four hours in your first week in practical sessions studying this module.
This module is for those who already with A level maths will teach you the essential mathematic skills required for chemists. You will learn how to use your maths skills to solve a variety of problems in chemistry.
There will be two hours of lectures per week with a one hour workshop.
In this module, you will be introduced to the physiology of major systems such as cardiovascular, nervous, and musculoskeletal, including some aspects of drug action. This module will allow you to understand your biochemical and genetics knowledge in the context of the intact organism. This module includes lectures and laboratory classes.
You’ll learn about Nature's building blocks including the structure and functions of lipids, amino acids, carbohydrates and nucleotides. You'll also learn about the reactivity of these molecules and their biological roles through case studies.
In this module you’ll look at green chemistry in its broadest sense, covering the fundamental concepts and chemistry involved in making chemical processes cleaner and more environmentally benign.
You’ll spend one hour per week in lectures, seminars and workshops over the whole year studying this module.
This module will introduce you to selected topics at the forefront of current research in chemistry from a physical chemistry perspective.
Example topics include:
You’ll gain a firm understanding of the use of mathematical equations in a chemical context through the study of topics including: scientific notation and significant figures; common chemical units and conversions between them; the rearrangement of chemical expressions and their graphical representation; trigonometry, differentiation and integration, and differential equations for chemical problems.
This module is compulsory for students not offering A level mathematics (or equivalent); optional for students offering A level mathematics or equivalent.
You’ll spend two hours per week in lectures studying topics including the synthesis, bonding and reactivity of organometallic compounds, the use of symmetry and group theory to interpret infra-red spectra and NMR spectroscopy in inorganic chemistry.
Further support is provided by tutorials every third week.
In this module, you’ll discuss the reactivity of, suggest synthetic routes for and interpret the spectroscopic characterisation of organic compounds including some natural products.
Topics studied include:
You’ll attend two lectures each week in this module and tutorials every third week.
This module builds on the practical, analytical and communication skills developed in the first year and introduces experiments across the range of chemistry, based on your second year theory modules.
You’ll spend around 10 hours per week in practicals for this module.
In this module you'll study the physical principles underlying chemical phenomena, with emphasis on energy, quantum mechanics and spectroscopy. You'll also be introduced to solid-state chemistry, including the structure, characterisation, energetics and the band theory of solids.
You’ll attend two hours of lectures each week in this module.
This module will examine in depth the analysis of drug action, and its application to the design and use of current therapeutics. We will define what drugs are, the different ways they act at the cellular and molecular level, and pharmacokinetic principles underlying drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination. This framework will provide the basis to explore the rationale and goals of treatment for clinical therapeutic case studies. These will highlight major current challenges to human health – in cardiovascular and respiratory disease, diabetes and obesity, CNS disorders, cancer and infectious disease. Overall, the student will develop a deep understanding of what the discipline of pharmacology represents, and its application to both basic biological research and current and future medical advances.
The fundamental building blocks of life are essential for life as we know it but what exactly are they and how can this aid us in the development of medicinal drugs? This module will provide you with the fundamental concepts in molecular biology, medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, enabling you to understand the mode of action of anti-cancer agents, antibiotics and toxins.
You’ll study:
You’ll attend two lectures each week for this module.
In this module, you will have the opportunity to undertake a full-time research placement in the pharmaceutical, biotech, healthcare or related industry where you will develop the application of science.
You’ll study the roles of inorganic elements and molecules in biology, the inorganic aspects of the N and O cycles. You’ll learn about the electronic structure, co-ordination chemistry, and redox properties of d-transition metal ions in biological systems and the roles of metalloproteins in dioxygen transport, electron transfer, photosynthesis and dinitrogen fixation.
You’ll follow this module throughout the year through independent study and will be assessed by three written assignments.
You'll learn about a range of modern reagents and synthetic methodology, and how these are applied to the synthesis of organic target molecules, such as natural products and active pharmaceuticals.
You'll learn about organolithium reagents and how modern palladium-mediated cross-coupling reactions can be used to synthesise complex organic molecules.
You’ll follow this module throughout the year through independent study and will be assessed by three written assignments.
You’ll study the relationships between structure and properties of solids, and develop electronic structure theories that account for a wide range of properties of solids. You’ll learn about semi-conductors, photoconductivity, LEDs and solar cells. You’ll also study the modern theoretical methods that are used to calculate the properties of molecules and materials.
You’ll follow this module throughout the year through independent study and will be assessed by three written assignments.
You will be welcomed into one of the research groups within the School of Chemistry to undertake an in-depth research project.
All projects will involve a review of relevant published work and the planning and execution of a research topic under the guidance of two supervisors.
Building on your knowledge from the previous years' modules in inorganic chemistry, you’ll study topics including:
You’ll attend two lectures each week in this module.
Explore the synthesis of a variety of natural (and unnatural) compounds of relevance to biology and medicine, with reference to the goals and achievements of contemporary organic synthesis through a range of case studies. There is an emphasis on the use of modern synthetic methodology to address problems such as chemoselectivity, regiocontrol, stereoselectivity, atom economy and sustainability.
You will also study the application of new methodology for the rapid, efficient and highly selective construction of a range of target compounds - particularly those that display significant biological activity. There will also be an opportunity to address how a greater understanding of mechanism is important in modern organic chemistry. This module is assessed by a two hour exam.
During this module you will learn to understand in depth the structure, chemistry and molecular recognition of nucleic acids and their reactivity towards mutagens, carcinogens and ionising radiation and anti-tumour drugs. You will appreciate the plasticity and dynamics of the DNA duple helix through base motions that underpin its function.
The bacterial replisome will be used as the prime example to highlight the problems associated with DNA replication and the significance of telomeres will be discussed. Alongside this you will develop an understanding of the chemical reactivity of coenzymes and how these add significantly to the functionality of the 20 amino acids found in proteins.
In this module you will explore inorganic photochemistry, electron transport pathways, molecular and supramolecular photochemistry, and artificial photosynthesis together with the principles that underpin green chemistry.
You will attend two lectures per week in this module.
In this module you’ll learn about the importance of intermolecular forces, across a wide cross-section of subject areas from biology through to supramolecular chemical systems.
You'll study molecular organisation, assembly and recognition in biological and supramolecular systems.
In addition to appreciating the rich chemistry underlying self-assembling systems, you'll learn about the phenomena that impact on the properties of materials and important interactions in biology.
You'll attend two lectures per week in this module.
Students will learn about the factors that lead to successful commercial innovation and how to take a technical idea and convert it into a successful commercial venture. They are shown routes to market for innovative ideas available from an academic/industrial viewpoint Assessment in SEM 1 will be via group exercise and presentation; teams have 3 weeks to develop the business case for a new innovation as a Dragon’s Den Style Pitch which is given in late November.
Students will also learn about different types of business and how they contribute to the global economy. Some of the basic business skills will be covered (selling, marketing, customer awareness and finance) as well as the aspects which drive innovation and success.
We also give students an understanding of intellectual property, how it is used to create value in the business context. Aspects of IP law are highlighted with reference to different types of IPR including patents, trademarks, copyright, design rights and trade secrets including their everyday application within chemistry using industries.
This course demonstrates utilisation of this IP to give a company a competitive advantage within their market place.
At the end of the course students participate in a one day business exercise led by professionals from a chemicals company that tests all of the above skills in an interesting and realistic approach to commercial problem solving.
Advanced Chemical Biology
To introduce concepts of chemical genetics and including activity-based protein profiling, non-natural amino acid incorporation, bio-orthogonal reactivity and the use of bump-and-hole strategies, applied to various challenges such as finding kinase/target pairs.
Biocatalysis
To introduce enzyme engineering and the synthetic utility of designer biocatalysts, especially highlighting chemo-enzymatic approaches toward chiral commodity molecules (e.g. pharmaceuticals) and their precursors.
Biosynthesis
To introduce the biosynthetic pathways and enzyme catalysed reactions leading natural products polyketides, terpenes, fatty acids and non-ribosomal peptides.
Teaching methods
Assessment methods
We use a range of assessment methods, including exams, essays, verbal presentations and practicals. You will receive a copy of our marking criteria which provides guidance on how we will assess your work. Your work will be marked on time and you will receive regular feedback.
Your final degree classification will be based on marks gained in your second and third years of study.
You must pass each year to progress. This typically means that you will need to achieve marks of at least 40% in each module. Full details on our marking criteria and structure will be provided at your induction.
To study abroad as part of your degree, you must meet minimum academic requirements in year one.
In your first year, you will take 120 credits of modules. As a guide, one credit equals approximately 10 hours of work. You will spend around half of your time in lectures, seminars and practicals. The remaining time will be independent study.
Core modules are typically taught by professors or associate professors. PhD students may support teaching on some modules.
Our graduates can find roles in the pharmaceutical, chemical, food and drink, and energy sectors. This course will develop your skills in practical and theoretical chemistry, data-analysis and problem-solving. These skills are also valuable for careers in finance, education and the media.
Many students continue their studies in chemistry or a related discipline working towards a PhD degree. Read our chemistry alumni profiles to see what careers some of our recent graduates have gone into.
89.00% of undergraduates from the School of Chemistry secured employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £26,216.
HESA Graduate Outcomes (2017-2021 cohorts). The Graduate Outcomes % is calculated using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.
Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.
Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.
Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.
The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2020, High Fliers Research).
University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.
University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
3 years full-time
Qualification
BSc Hons
UCAS code
B740
Faculty of Sciences
4 Years full-time
Qualification
MSci Hons
UCAS code
B23B
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