This one-year taught programme offers the opportunity to study Chemistry at an advanced level, covering both the traditional core areas of chemistry, as well as more specialist courses aligned to the research groupings of the department. The course provides opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate advanced knowledge, understanding, and practical/research skills.
Would you like to upgrade your bachelor’s degree to a master’s and gain access to a chemistry career in industry or research? Join the MSc Chemistry and develop your lab and theoretical skills. Specialise in inorganic and materials, organic or physical chemistry, or maintain a broad portfolio, for a more detailed description of the available pathways, click the Pathways tab. Courses are available in synthesis, advanced structural, analytical and spectroscopic techniques, materials chemistry, modelling, biological and medicinal chemistry, and electrochemistry.
The MSc Chemistry course combines the opportunity for students to take modules from a wide range of cutting-edge fields in chemistry with sessions on practical, technical skills, and scientific writing, communication and presentation and a three month summer project supervised by one of Southampton’s expert academics. The course aims to:
Find out more about the course visit the programme specification
A Chemistry masters degree will give students valuable insight into postgraduate research skills. Independent project work will support students to develop transferable skills in areas such as time management, communication and presentation skills that are key for career success in a wide range of areas such as industry, analysis, policymaking and scientific communication. Completing an MSc qualification will help individuals tackle the challenges of an advanced research degree at PhD level and prepare them for a career in academia.
The following information summarises the typical pathways offered when choosing the MSc Chemistry degree programme:
Organic Chemistry
This area focuses on synthetic organic chemistry, total synthesis, synthetic methodology, reaction mechanism, organocatalysis, organofluorine chemistry, photochemistry and carbohydrate chemistry, both towards the synthesis of bioactive compounds and organic materials, and includes the study of organic reactions under flow conditions. This pathway offers the opportunity to specialise in the following areas
This pathway consists of advanced postgraduate courses in synthetic reaction mechanisms and is best suited to students who already have a thorough BSc level grounding in aspects of nomenclature, stereochemistry, reaction mechanisms.
Inorganic chemistry and materials
This area focuses on the synthesis of functional inorganic, solid-state and supramolecular materials and assemblies to address key challenges in energy, sustainability, healthcare and diagnostics and the deposition of nanostructured materials. This pathway will give you the opportunity to specialise in the following areas
This pathway is best suited to students who already have a thorough BSc level grounding in the fundamentals and applications of inorganic chemisry.
Physical chemistry
This pathway is best suited to students who already have a thorough BSc level grounding in the fundamentals and applications of inorganic chemistry. This area covers a wide range of fundamental and applied topics. This pathway will give you the opportunity to specialise in the following areas
This pathway is best suited to students who already have a thorough BSc level grounding in the fundamentals and applications of physical chemistry, in particular quantum chemistry, spectroscopy, thermodynamics and kinetics
General chemistry
You can choose to further your knowledge across a blend of advanced courses from organic, inorganic and/or physical chemistry (any combination). This pathway is suited to those wishing to develop an interdisciplinary expertise. If you choose this pathway you should already have a sound BSc-level grounding in the areas of chemistry in which you intend to choose modules (see other boxes).
The MSc in Analytical and Forensic Chemistry is aimed at those with a strong interest in modern instrumentation and in novel methods of chemical and forensic analysis.
A revolution in forensic, environmental and pharmaceutical science has been borne through advances in analytical science. We are now seeing a strong, worldwide demand for imaginative, skilled analysts who have knowledge and hands-on experience of modern analytical instrumentation.
Forensic science is a multidisciplinary activity that relies on chemical and analytical techniques to provide invaluable evidence from investigations of disasters, accidents and criminal activities. It may involve the detection of tiny amounts of explosives, poisons and drugs or the identification of fibres, paints, combustion residues, glass fragments, or counterfeit currency. Forensic work is also of a biological nature, with crime detection techniques such as DNA fingerprinting requiring an understanding of the underlying biochemistry.
The University’s Analytical Science Group has an international reputation for its innovative approach to analytical and forensic chemistry. We are one of the UK’s premier analytical groups, with a range of state-of-the-art facilities and instrumentation.
In Semester 1 you take three core modules. These are designed to give a broad and balanced understanding of the most important developments in modern analytical and forensic chemistry:
In Semester 2 you use key research tools – such as online information retrieval – to learn about the background and the planning behind your chosen research project. You will also develop specialist knowledge of analytical and forensic chemistry:
In Semester 3 you complete an advanced analytical and forensic chemistry research project culminating in a Masters-level thesis and an oral presentation of your research successes:
Your learning will be diverse and varied. It will include interactive lectures, workshops, laboratory practicals, and computer lab sessions. You will explore the theoretical, practical and investigative aspects of analytical chemistry and forensic science, and develop invaluable professional skills, including the application of quality assurance and health safety, oral and written communication skills, problem solving, data handling and working in teams.
* All modules are subject to availability.
We teach a modern curriculum covering key areas of analytical chemistry of importance to industry, including process analysis, quality assurance, spectrometry and chromatography; and cutting-edge interdisciplinary research topics in areas such as lab-on-a-chip.
The knowledge and skills you will learn on this MSc will prepare you for a career in forensic science providing invaluable evidence from investigations of disasters, accidents and criminal activities.
We undertake world-class research in many scientific areas and are famous for our pioneering work on liquid crystals. Many of our Masters students choose to progress on to PhD-level study.
Chemistry research at Swansea University is vibrant and covers a wide range of research areas and interests, and will be growing at a fast pace over the next 2-3 years. It is focused on 4 themes: Energy, Health, New and Advanced Molecules and Materials, and Water and the Environment. These research initiatives transcend the traditional discipline boundaries, integrate the core areas of inorganic, organic, physical and analytical chemistries and intersect with other scientific disciplines, engineering and medicine.
The new Department of Chemistry has excellent, purpose-built modern laboratories and has access to a diverse type of laboratories research infrastructures to develop its research. For example, high-quality, high-impact chemistry research is already taking place in World Class Centres based in Swansea such as The Centre for NanoHealth, The Institute of Mass Spectrometry, The Institute of Life Sciences, The Energy Safety Research Institute, Multidisciplinary Nanotechnology Centre, The Centre for Water Advanced Technologies and Environmental Research and The Materials Research Centre. The integration of the new Chemistry Department with Engineering, the Medical School and other departments in the College of Science provides an environment of research excellence and allows our chemistry students and research staff to invent, innovate and develop products in a way that is best suited to research in the 21st century and the need to generate disruptive, step-change advances with impact on current global challenges.
Energy: One of the key areas where advances in chemistry will be needed is in providing solutions to the global energy challenge. Chemistry research in Swansea University is participating in fundamental and applied research initiatives focused on:
Health: Chemistry research provides new routes to more effective, cheaper and less toxic therapies and to non-invasive disease detection and diagnosis tools – a requirement to transform the entire landscape of drug discovery, development and healthcare, which is unaffordable and needs to benefit more patients. The chemistry research laboratories for this theme are adjacent to Swansea Medical School – which ranked 1st in the UK for research environment, and 2nd for overall research quality in the REF 2014.
Current chemistry research includes:
New and Advanced Molecules and Materials: There is major interest in synthesing, designing and controllling molecular and macromolecular assemblies at multiple length scales. In Swansea this research involves use of:
Water and the Environment: Chemistry at Swansea university has a strong profile in the development of analytical tools for measuring environmental impact, environmental impact assessment of polymer-based materials through their lifetime (including the effects of recycling and biopolymers), technologies for the efficient removal of environmentally harmful materials (and thus reduced emissions per output of discharge), membrane technologies and new methodologies for desalination, and for dewatering and killing pathogens for sanitation applications and the use of new molecules and materials for photocatalytic water splitting and development of self-propelled micro and nanomotor systems for environmental remediation. In collaboration with the Biocontrol and Natural Products (BANP) group in the Department of Biosciences, there is also growing research interest around the characterisation and application of natural products, in particular those derived from fungi and microalgae, to provide therapeutics and nutraceuticals and to act as agents for biocontrol and bioremediation.
Our new state-of-the-art teaching laboratories are being built as part of a multi-million pound investment to create a chemistry hub for the high quality Chemical Sciences research being carried out across the Colleges of Science, Engineering and Medicine.
A chemistry qualification opens the door to a wide range of careers options, both in and out of the lab. There are endless interesting and rewarding science-based jobs available – these can be in research, outdoors or in other industries you might not have thought of. Please visit the Royal Society of Chemistry website for details.
Find out more about the huge range of jobs in chemistry by exploring the job profiles on the Royal Society of Chemistry website (eg Cancer Researcher, Flavourist & Innovation Director, Chief Chemist, Sustainability Manager, Fragrance Chemist, Household Goods Senior Scientist, Analytical Scientist, and many more).
Chemists have always been in demand worldwide with pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, fine chemicals, and within research laboratories across the globe. The programme at Aberdeen is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Aberdeen is noted for Nobel prizes within Chemistry which include the invention of modern chromatography (Synge 1952) and the discovery of a new element - protactinium (Soddy 1921). Teaching at Aberdeen is informed by world class research within food security. Class sizes are kept small to enable you to have strong teaching interaction and support in your studies. You will be taught by many staff in the environment group (TESLA) and (MBC)
The programme focuses on specialised modern analytical methodology. The range of industries or institutes where these skills are asked for includes the pharmaceutical industry, environmental institutions, research institutes and also the oil & gas industry. There are many new innovations which require chemists with advanced skills to analyse and test new methods of providing health via IOT devices, smart phones and small sensors deployed throughout the body to quickly provide analysis and customised recommendations.
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
Find out about fees:
Find out more from the programme page
*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.
View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page and the latest postgraduate opportunities
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This analytical chemistry masters is structured around a solid core comprised of the three main analytical techniques – Mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Each of these techniques contains a number of key common themes (data collection, analysis and management). Supporting modules feature further analytical techniques and serve to embed themes of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), facility management and enterprise into the programme. A group analytical project develops interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team and will be the first opportunity for students to independently fully exercise some of the components of the course taught in the first semester. The integral research project provides an opportunity to explore any of the main themes directly or as part of a collaborative synthetic/analytical investigation.
Analytical Chemistry is the largest employment area for the chemical sciences. The Instrumental Analytical Chemistry MSc gives you a boost to your bachelor’s degree that significantly increases your employability. We offer an advanced, instrumentation-driven postgraduate education in modern analytical chemistry with some elements in combination with one or more specialist research areas such as synthesis or data science.
You will receive comprehensive, hands-on, training with state-of-the-art research-led instrumentation in the techniques and provision of Mass Spectrometry, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction. This training will then be used in your research project, which focuses on the application of these techniques to most areas of mainstream chemistry.
The MSc masters in analytical chemistry programme will provide you with knowledge, understanding and strong practical skills in:
¹ Analytical science currently defined by the EPSRC as principally consisting of mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction
View the programme specification document for this course
With a masters in analytical chemistry you could find employment with:
Analytical chemistry underpins many important commercial enterprises from jet engine development to food production, and is also applied to many other academic disciplines such as Earth sciences, medicine, archaeology, pharmacy and forensics. This MSc seeks to train the next generation of analytical scientists in state-of-the-art methods and skills to tackle the challenges of this broad range of applications.
This programme is designed to provide comprehensive training in analytical chemistry and its implementation. A thorough understanding of error analysis, data processing and data presentation will be at the foundation of this programme.
The programme will contain minimum formal instruction, but emphasise self-learning and originality of thought. Students will develop and demonstrate self-direction and originality, and the independence required for continuing professional development.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of four core modules (90 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a report (60 credits).
Core modules
Students take the following core modules (105 credits) and submit a research dissertation (60 credits).
*Students take these core modules in term one and only proceed to term two and select the research project if they have achieved 50% or greater in all three of the taught core modules.
Optional modules
Students choose one of the following options:
Dissertation/report
All students undertake a substantial research project selected from a range (60 credits).
Teaching and learning
This degree emphasises self-learning and is delivered through individual and team-based tasks. The programme will focus on developing students’ knowledge of analytical methodology, philosophy and design.
Assessment is by presentations, vivas, and problem-solving coursework. Only optional modules are presented more formally with lectures and written examinations.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Applied Analytical Chemistry MSc
Graduates will be equipped for varied employment in industry and the public sector: analytical science techniques have a very broad range of applications in many sectors, ranging from forensics to global climate change and medicine to the automotive industry.
Employability
The programme includes a module on project management offered by the UCL School of Management which will prepare students for careers in research or in analytical sciences. There are also modules on mastering entrepreneurship, and new technology ventures which will help students transform ideas into commercial entities.
Using a non-traditional approach this programme will prioritise independent learning and research. Students also participate in peer-review assessment of posters and talks. Peer assessment is an important transferable skill that is used widely in industrial and academic environments.
Emphasis will be on designing appropriate analytical methodologies and the relevant underpinning data handling, analysis and interpretation. The physics and chemistry behind state-of-the-art measurement technologies, their methods and application limitations will also be prioritised.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Chemistry
94% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
Advance your knowledge of analytical chemistry, your practical skills and professional and organisation skills on this course. You learn the fundamentals of analytical chemistry and how it is applied to pharmaceutical, environmental and materials analyses.
The course is taught by researchers with an international reputation in advanced analytical techniques, such as the application of mass spectrometry to the analysis of biological matrices. Tutors also have expertise in production and detection of nanoparticles and detection of pollutants, particularly in soil.
This course is suitable if you wish to increase your knowledge and skills and increase your competitiveness in the job market or pursue a PhD. It will also suit you if you work in a chemistry-related profession and are seeking to further your career prospects.
You gain experience and understanding of
This is a multi-disciplinary course where you learn about various topics including statistics, laboratory quality assurance and control, environmental analysis and fundamentals of analytical instrumentation.
You also gain the transferable skills needed to continue developing your knowledge in science, such as data interpretation and analysis, experimental design and communication and presentation skills.
You complete a research project to develop your research skills and their application to real world situations. You are supported by a tutor who is an expert in analytical chemistry.
Your laboratory work is carried out in our teaching laboratories which are extensively equipped with the latest models of analytical instruments such as HPLCs and GCs. This is supplemented by access to our research facilities where you have access to more sophisticated equipment, such as NMR and a suite of various types of mass spectrometers.
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). Applicants should normally have a degree (bachelors or equivalent) in chemistry that is accredited by the RSC. Applicants whose first degree is not accredited by the RSC, or with overseas degrees or degrees in which chemistry is a minor component will be considered on a case by case basis on submission of their first degree transcript.
Candidates who do not meet the RSC criteria for accreditation will be awarded a non-accredited masters qualification on successful completion of the programme.
Applicants will be informed in writing at the start of the programme whether or not they possess an acceptable qualification and, if successful on the masters programme, will receive an RSC accredited degree. If you do not meet the RSC criteria for accreditation, you will be awarded a non-accredited masters after successfully completing the programme.
The masters (MSc) award is achieved by successfully completing 180 credits.
The postgraduate certificate (PgCert) is achieved by successfully completing 60 credits.
The postgraduate diploma (PgDip) is achieved by successfully completing 120 credits.
Core modules:
Assessment methods include written examinations and coursework including
Research project assessment includes a written report and viva voce.
This course is aimed at either recent graduates or those already in employment who wish to develop a career in analytical chemistry or enhance their laboratory skills and knowledge in the techniques and methods used in a modern analytical science laboratory. It also offers you the training and knowledge to go on to research at PhD level in analytical science.
The MRes in Analytical Chemistry is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of students. In particular, it is geared towards the analytical professionals seeking to refresh their knowledge of analytical chemistry and recent graduates in a wide range of sciences allied to chemistry including, biology, chemistry, environmental science, forensic science and physics.
This course enables you to develop and further your knowledge of chemical analysis, with a carefully put together range of core modules. You can expand your interests further by selecting module options and an analytical chemistry led research project within one of the diverse range of internationally recognised analytical chemistry research groups (alongside PhD students and post doctoral research fellows).
We have links with scientists from AstraZeneca and Vectura who deliver some of the module content relevant to their workplace. Other guest lecturers from a variety of other companies and universities also present their research.
Visit us on campus throughout the year, find and register for our next open event on http://www.ntu.ac.uk/pgevents.
This masters in chemistry by research is a one year course beginning in October each year and is intended for participants with high quality first degrees in chemistry or a closely related subject.
Would you like to carry out an extensive piece of research whilst developing your theoretical skills? Our most research-intensive MSc programme includes a year-long research project embedded into one of our leading research groups and with access to our state of the art facilities.
Theory modules can be selected from topics in synthesis, advanced structural, analytical and spectroscopic techniques, materials chemistry, modelling, biological and medicinal chemistry, and electrochemistry.
You can specialise in a research area of your choice, within one of our main six research groups:
This programme provides training in chemical research and involves both lecture based units and a one year research project that constitutes 66 per cent of the assessment. In addition to units to enhance knowledge in chemistry, participants are offered training with regard to safety in the laboratory and to improve their professional skills, such as data analysis and presentation and oral presentations for example.
View the programme specification document for this course
Do you have an undergraduate degree in Chemistry or a substantive element within the subject and are you wondering what to study next to get into a specialised field? An oil and gas chemist is a highly skilled, highly paid professional with a vital impact on the world's energy industry production both now and in the future. You would not only look at the production side of energy exploration but you are looking at bioremediation, analysis, flow risk, natural gas and in depth analysis to ensure that energy producers supply the correct quality constantly.
You also get involved in corrosion prevention in terms of facilities and development of a new supply of chemical products to ensure improved production and remediation techniques are applied. This is a highly skilled profession with international applications across global facilities often working within interdisciplinary teams. The programme draws on expertise at Aberdeen which has been known for its energy production since the 1970s. This has allowed for both strong academic rigour and industry input to develop a consistently high standard of industry relevant vocational advanced degrees specifically for the oil and gas industry. Programmes are run from the university or online from Aberdeen where it is possible to do this. Aberdeen, Scotland is located at the heart of the European oil and gas industry and on a par with Houston, Texas in terms of knowledge and skills in the city.
The programme addresses a growing need for environmental responsibility looking at production and refining materials, energetics and environmental impact remediation in a constantly evolving oil and gas environment and within a constantly changing regulatory environment internationally.
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
Find out about fees:
Find out more from the programme page
*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.
View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page and the latest postgraduate opportunities
Find out more about:
Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs
You may be interested in:
