A Chemistry degree at Northumbria provides you with a required foundation in core chemistry. It supplies a range of options including:

Natural Product and Medicinal Chemistry

Advanced Instrumental and Structural Methods

Theoretical and Computational Methods

A year out in industry

The MChem course follows the path of the BSc Chemistry degree, with an additional year-long research project in the 4th year alongside additional final year modules focussing on cutting edge research fields. The additional year provides significant further laboratory experience and opportunities to apply your knowledge from the first 3 years of the course.

Alongside the opportunity to gain hands-on practical experience in our state-of-the-art laboratories, you will learn from our research-active team of academic staff comprising leaders in a range of research fields.

This degree will provide you with the knowledge, independent critical thinking, and problem-solving skills needed to become a well-rounded chemist. The degree will thoroughly prepare you for a career in the chemical industry or academia and will equip you with skills applicable in a wide range of fields.

How does this course prepare me for my future career?

At Northumbria, our degrees are designed to make you as employable as possible. As well as graduating with a respected degree, this course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, it fulfils the academic requirements for Chartered Chem (CChem). The MChem course also provides the opportunity to spend a year in industry where you can gain first-hand experience of the world of work.

Not only will this enable you to ‘test your chosen career, but you will develop valuable skills such as teamwork, communication, and time-management. The practical experience gained through your placement year will complement the learning theory and strengthen your CV. You can also boost your employability with short work placements, study abroad, STEM ambassador activities or volunteering.

You will graduate from the MChem course with extensive experience in practical laboratory work and conducting research projects, equipping you with the skills needed to enter a career in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries or continue on to PhD study. Your final year will give you experience of producing a research project from first hypothesis right through to publication, and will help you develop skills in communication and team-working.

Throughout the course you will also develop transferable skills appreciated by employers in general, not only in traditional chemistry roles. You will cultivate the ability to think analytically, develop excellent problem-solving, logic and critical thinking skills, and an eye for detail. Previous Northumbria graduates have found employment in areas as diverse as teaching, business and management, finance, law and marketing.

Mode of Study

4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad