Why study this course

Learn how to apply your fundamental chemistry skills to the development of innovative technologies for a global sustainable future from renewable energy and cleaner manufacturing to food security and global health.

Chemistry is at the core of global sustainability intrinsic to clean energy, the circular economy, green manufacturing and healthcare. During this one-year course, youll learn how to apply your fundamental chemistry knowledge to these crucial areas, preparing you to capitalise on the growing demand for experts in sustainable chemistry across a range of sectors.

The course is designed to align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals - in particular climate action, affordable and clean energy, good health and wellbeing, zero hunger and industry innovation and infrastructure - and youll explore the advanced chemistry theory and practice underpinning these areas with our world-leading researchers.

Youll develop sustainability skills including literacy in net-zero processes, the circular economy and the ability to critically analyse proposals to assess overall sustainability and recognise greenwashing. There will be opportunities to work both alone and with your fellow students to design and plan hypothetical new systems and methodologies to transform current, harmful processes in a creative and sustainable way.
Along with core modules in sustainable chemistry, you'll be able to specialise in an area of your interest, through optional modules and an original research project with one of our innovative research groups in our state-of-the art labs.

How will I be assessed?

Your assessment involves a blend of methods selected to suit the outcomes of each module and the course as a whole including:

Formal examinations with fixed time-limits

Class tests

Reports on laboratory work

Planning, conduct and reporting of project work including peer assessment

Essays 

Problem-solving exercises (as workshop assignments)

Oral and poster presentations

Careers and placements

Our graduates are in high demand across many industries and enjoy a broad range of flexible and dynamic career options.

Past graduates have gone on to pursue careers in the chemical, pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries, as well as in regulatory affairs, health and safety, intellectual property and patents. Another popular career path is a research-related role within public and private research institutions, academic institutions, or consulting services. This programme will provide you with a variety of widely sought skills in sustainability that are of high demand and attractive to future employers.

You might meet our graduates working for companies including Johnson Matthey, Thales, Hexion, CatSci and LabGenius in the UK, as well as international companies such as Haldor Topsøe, Denmark and the National Science and Technology Development Agency in Thailand.