The BSc (Hons) in Chemistry will teach you the fundamentals of this central science, from the composition and properties of matter to using reactions to create new molecules and materials. You will learn about the critical role of chemistry in industries and new technologies, from pharmaceuticals to accessing drinkable water, and from efficient energy generation to sustainable food production. Chemistry at St Andrews interfaces with biology, physics, mathematics, medicine and geology, making it a highly applicable subject to many areas of study.

During your degree, you will receive comprehensive academic and practical training to equip you for a wide spectrum of careers, whether in science-based industries or other fields such as teaching, management or finance.

Course information

The BSc (Hons) in Chemistry is a four-year course run by the School of Chemistry. Chemistry at St Andrews provides students with a fundamental and comprehensive understanding of chemistry, along with a highly transferrable training in numeracy, problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills.

In the first two years, you will take modules in organic, inorganic and physical chemistry.

Alongside chemistry, in the first year of your studies, you will be required to study an additional two subjects. In the second year, you will usually carry on at least one of these subjects, sometimes two.

The knowledge and skills in research and analysis that you gain during your first two years will prepare you to undertake more advanced and specialist modules during your final two years. These specialist subjects include (but are not limited to):

• synthetic methods and reaction mechanisms
• the chemistry of biomolecules
• energy conversion and storage materials
• fragrance, food and colour chemistry
• statistical mechanics and computational chemistry.

During your final year, you will also carry out a research project in one of the School's highly-rated research groups on a topic chosen in consultation with staff.