This programme aims to meet the needs of the fine chemicals, cosmetics, biomaterial, polymers, surface coatings, graphic arts and colorant industries by producing graduates with advanced knowledge and research skills in colour science and in the theory, application and analysis of polymers, fine chemicals and colorants.
You’ll be introduced to a breadth of practical research and high-level academic skills in planning, experimentation and processes, in synthesis and characterisation aspects. Optional modules will also give you the chance to gain specialist knowledge in an area that suits your own interests and potential career plans.
You’ll also develop a range of generic skills such as problem solving, information technology and communication. Our graduates enjoy excellent employment opportunities both in industry and academia.
Throughout the programme you’ll study compulsory and optional modules covering concepts, information and techniques relevant to polymers, colorants and fine chemicals. You’ll also be introduced to topics from the research frontier such as synthesis, formulation and application of advanced polymers, colorants, cosmetics, inks and coatings, fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
The focal point of the course is the extended research project. Your supervisor will help you to select the project that is right for you, in an area that interests and motivates you. The project will provide you with key research experience to take your career forward. With the core modules behind you, you will be ideally positioned to choose an exciting problem to investigate. Some research projects are linked with industry and will help to enhance your employability.
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
Teaching methods involve a combination of lectures, tutorials, case studies, workshops and contact with relevant industries. The final stage of study is an individual extended research project which is typically carried out within a research group and may also include external industrial involvement.
Assessment is based on course work, research project performance and written exams which take place at the end of the semester in which the module is taught.
There are a range of employment opportunities in areas such as fine chemicals manufacture (eg colorants, cosmetics, food additives, healthcare products etc.), polymers and polymeric additives (eg high performance plastics, biopolymers, medical implants, drugs), colour applications (eg textile dyeing and printing, inks and coatings), with companies such as Unilever, P&G, GSK, Clariant, Archroma, Huntsman, L’Oreal, Abbott Laboratory, Akzo Nobel, Sun Chemical, and BASF.
There are also opportunities to continue on to PhD study with many projects supported by industrial partners.
Colour Science, in conjunction with The Printing Charity, also offer career training days to students interested in furthering their career in graphic arts industries.
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.
