Chemistry BSc

Chemistry is the study of matter, its properties, and how substances interact, combine and change. It underpins many areas of science and industry, from drug development and environmental protection to materials science and energy. A Chemistry degree is ideal for students who are curious about how the world works at a molecular level and who enjoy both laboratory and theoretical work.

Course Structure

Most Chemistry degrees last three years full time (BSc), or four years with a placement year or study abroad. Many universities also offer an integrated master’s degree (MChem) over four years.

Teaching involves lectures, laboratory practicals, problem-solving workshops, tutorials and independent study. Assessment includes exams, lab reports, essays, oral presentations, and a final-year research project.

Typical Modules

Year 1 – Foundations of Chemistry

Inorganic Chemistry (periodic table, bonding, atomic structure)

Organic Chemistry (functional groups, reaction mechanisms)

Physical Chemistry (thermodynamics, kinetics, quantum chemistry)

Analytical Chemistry (spectroscopy, chromatography)

Laboratory and Research Skills

Mathematics for Chemists

Year 2 – Core Development

Organometallic Chemistry

Advanced Organic Reactions

Physical Chemistry: Quantum Mechanics and Thermodynamics

Advanced Analytical Methods

Computational Chemistry

Optional modules such as Medicinal Chemistry or Environmental Chemistry

Year 3 – Advanced Study and Applications

• Advanced Inorganic and Organic Chemistry

• Materials and Polymer Chemistry

• Chemical Biology and Biotechnology

• Environmental and Green Chemistry

• Research Project or Dissertation (lab- or industry-based)

• Optional modules may include forensic chemistry, nanotechnology or sustainable chemistry.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

• A levels: Chemistry (essential), plus one or more of Maths, Physics or Biology.

  
  

• BTECs: Applied Science may be considered if it includes a strong chemistry component, sometimes alongside A level Chemistry.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Higher Level Chemistry is required, with Maths or Physics recommended.

What Makes a Strong Application

Universities look for students who are enthusiastic about experimental science and analytical problem-solving. A strong application should include:

• Strong grades in Chemistry and supporting sciences.

  
  

• A personal statement highlighting curiosity about chemical processes, lab experience or scientific interests.

  
  

• Evidence of wider engagement, such as attending science lectures, reading popular chemistry books, or work experience in labs or industry.

  
  

• Numerical confidence for handling data and theoretical concepts.

  
  

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Chemistry degree equips students with both specialist and broad skills, including:

• Laboratory expertise – handling equipment, designing experiments, ensuring safety.

  
  

• Analytical skills – interpreting spectra, chemical data and experimental results.

  
  

• Problem-solving – applying theory to practical challenges.

  
  

• Numeracy – working with equations, models and statistical data.

  
  

• Communication – writing scientific reports and presenting results.

  
  

• Teamwork – collaborating in labs and group projects.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Chemistry Students

Here are four accessible and inspiring books:

“The Disappearing Spoon” by Sam Kean – Fascinating stories behind the periodic table.

“Uncle Tungsten” by Oliver Sacks – A memoir of growing up surrounded by chemistry.

“Why Chemical Reactions Happen” by James Keeler and Peter Wothers – A more technical but highly readable introduction.

“Periodic Tales” by Hugh Aldersey-Williams – The cultural history of the elements.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Chemistry graduates enter a variety of sectors including pharmaceuticals, materials science, energy, teaching and research. Starting salaries are typically £24,000–£30,000. With experience, careers in research, pharmaceuticals, chemical engineering or consultancy can earn £35,000–£50,000. Senior research scientists, academics or industry leaders may reach £60,000–£90,000+.