About this course
Increase your knowledge of chemistry theory while carrying out a major research project on this Chemistry by Research MSc at the University of Southampton. You’ll work with one of our many chemistry research groups and benefit from specialist facilities as you develop practical skills and in-depth understanding in your chosen field. After graduating, you’ll be in the perfect position to continue your studies in a PhD in chemistry or start a career in industry.
On this research-intensive UK chemistry research master’s course, you’ll specialise in a research area of your choice, and work within one of our 7 chemistry research groups:
- Computational Systems
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical Biology, Diagnostics and Therapeutics
- Magnetic Resonance
- Organic Chemistry: Synthesis, Catalysis and Flow
- Characterisation and Analytics
- Functional Inorganic, Materials and Supramolecular Chemistry
Alongside the research project, which you’ll work on throughout the year, you’ll study a range of topics relating to your chosen specialism.
These could include:
- synthesis
- advanced structural, analytical and spectroscopic techniques
- materials chemistry
- modelling
- biological and medicinal chemistry
- Electrochemistry
Alongside the main course content, we’ll also offer you training in areas such as laboratory safety and professional skills, such as data analysis and presenting, which will be useful in your future career.
Course lead
Your course leader is Dr Guy Denuault, Associate Professor in Electrochemistry. His research focuses on electroanalytical chemistry with particular emphasis on the theory and application of microelectrodes, scanning electrochemical microscopy, nanostructured microelectrodes, and the modelling of electrochemical processes. Read Dr Denuault’s staff profile to find out more about his work.
“The University offers a great learning environment, especially for master’s students who study in the chemistry department.”
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2022 to 2023. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:1 degree in:
- chemistry
- biochemistry
- physics
- polymer science
- environmental sciences
- material science
- mathematics
Your degree must have at least 50% chemistry content.
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
Recognition of professional experience
If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.
Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This is a full-time master’s course. You’ll study for 12 months, from September to the following September.
The taught part of the course runs from September to June (semesters 1 and 2). This consists of modules that you’ll choose with the help of your academic supervisor to reflect your chosen specialism.
The research part of the course runs for the whole year.
Exams take place at the end of semesters 1 and 2.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
For entry in Academic Year 2022-23
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
Scientific writing and presentation skills for Chemistry MSc
This module involves the completion of a literature review in preparation for the student’s MSc dissertation project. The results of the literature review are presented in a written report and in a short oral presentation. To support the preparation of th...
You must also choose from the following modules:
Advanced Physical Chemistry
The course deals with the nature of surfaces, both real and ideal, the energetics of adsorption at surfaces and adsorption isotherms, and the charge distribution at the liquid/solid interface. The kinetics of reactions at interfaces, including the role of...
Advanced Spectroscopy and Applications
Modern spectroscopic techniques underpin a wide range of chemical and biological research as well as serving as a valuable analytical tool. This module will introduce some of the key principles, tools and techniques that govern spectroscopic measurements ...
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Chemistry
The aim of the module is to expose the students to modern chemical informatics, machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) driven approaches for computational modelling and prediction, illustrated with applications to research in to the discov...
Atoms, Molecules and Spins: Quantum Mechanics in Chemistry and Spectroscopy
This module aims to develop an intermediate-level understanding of quantum mechanics, including familiarity with its mathematical formulation. It is intended to bridge the gap between the qualitative, pictorial approach used in the core modules of the fir...
Battery Materials and Characterisation
This module examines key features of cell design and of materials used in batteries. It links this to a range of techniques that are commonly used to study cell architecture and structure, composition and surface chemistry of battery materials. Emphasis i...
Battery Technologies and their Applications
The development of energy storage technologies plays a critical role in the transition to an environmentally sustainable society and improving people's quality of living. Energy storage technologies are necessary in a variety of very important application...
Chemistry through the Computational Microscope
This module builds on the student’s core understanding of the structure of atoms and molecules to predict their behaviour using state-of-the art computational chemistry methods. This will involve learning how quantum chemistry methods can be used to st...
Chromatography: Theory and Application
Chromatography plays a key role in the modern world. It delivers practical and sustainable innovations to enable significant advancements in areas such as healthcare delivery, life sciences, environmental management, energy, food safety, and water quality...
Ethics in Science, Engineering and Technology: Jekyll and Hyde
Starting from the underlying themes in Jekyll and Hyde, wherein a scientific discovery can be seen as having both beneficial (Dr. Jekyll) and detrimental aspects (Mr. Hyde), this module delves into the general area of the ethics and social responsibility ...
Introduction to Electrochemistry I
Electrochemistry is a foundation stone for many exciting developments in, for example, chemistry, biology and materials, and it is also central to many technologies essential to modern living. In this course, you will learn about the key fundamental proce...
Introduction to Electrochemistry II
Electrochemistry is an important area of physical science covering many interesting and important topics of current scientific research. For example, it is key to the development of new power sources (batteries, fuel cells and supercapacitors) as well as...
Macrocyclic and Bio-inorganic Chemistry
This module explores some of the distinguishing features of metal ion complexes bearing macrocyclic ligands and some of the key structural and functional roles of metal ions in biology and medicine. The module serves as an introduction to these important ...
Mass Spectrometry: Theory and Application
Mass spectrometry is the key enabling technology for the 21st century. It delivers practical and sustainable innovations to enable significant advancements in areas such as healthcare delivery, life sciences, environmental management, energy, food safety,...
Medicinal Chemistry
Medicinal Chemistry is pivotal in the design, synthesis and evaluation of new medicines, and involves multidisciplinary research at the interface of Chemistry, Biology and Medicine. This module will introduce key molecular concepts and methods in Medicina...
Modelling in Electrochemistry
Electrode reactions are inherently complex as they involve interfacial charge transfer, mass transport, many species, different timescales, thermodynamics and kinetics, as well as chemical, material and electrical properties. Furthermore the electron tran...
NMR Spectroscopy: Theory and Application
NMR spectroscopy is a powerful analytical tool: by combining a wide range of 1D and 2D NMR experiments, the assignment of functional groups, atom connectivity and 3D molecular structure can be undertaken. This module will be delivered with a focus on pra...
Principles, Techniques and Energy Applications of Electrochemistry
Electrochemistry is an important area of science covering many interesting and important topics of current scientific research. For example, it is key to the development of new power sources (for example new batteries, fuel cells and supercapacitors) as ...
Supramolecular Chemistry of Functional Molecules and Materials
This module will explore the fundamental basis of intermolecular interactions and illustrate how these can be exploited to form diverse supramolecular assemblies ranging from small molecules, soft gels and hard extended inorganic solids. The course will p...
Synthetic Methods in Organic Chemistry
Carbon-carbon bond forming reactions lie at the heart of organic synthesis. In this course we will cover methods for carbon-carbon bond formation using carbanions and radicals, and through thermally and photochemically induced pericyclic processes. The si...
X-Ray Diffraction as a Characterisation Method
Students will become familiar with the types of information that x-ray diffraction can provide on the structure of a wide variety of samples. They will gain an understanding of the underlying principles and learn how to apply these to conduct the most app...
Learning and assessment
Learning
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- tutorials
- seminars
- workshops
- presentations
- independent learning (studying on your own)
- a research project
Assessment
We’ll assess you through:
- coursework
- written exams
- a dissertation
Dissertation
You’ll spend a year conducting an original piece of chemistry research. You'll write up your findings in a dissertation.
The project is a chance for you to develop your research skills and show in-depth knowledge of your subject.
You’ll work closely with a supervisor to choose your research topic, and have regular support meetings throughout the process.
Academic Support
You’ll be assigned a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Careers
With this degree you’ll be in a great position to continue your research at PhD level or start a career in industry, commerce, lecturing, or science writing.
Your analytical skills will also be attractive to many employers outside your specialism.
Careers services at Southampton
We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV/resume and interview skills workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:
- our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
- a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
- our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £26,000.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.
Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
10% alumni discount
If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.
Southampton Chemistry Postgraduate International Scholarship
A scholarship of £3,000 is available to international students studying for a postgraduate master’s in Chemistry.
Find out more about the Southampton Chemistry Postgraduate International Scholarship, including eligibility and conditions.
Southampton Chemistry Deans International Scholarship
Four scholarships offer international students £5,000 off their first year of study of chemistry and chemical engineering at either undergraduate or postgraduate level.
Find out more about the Southampton Chemistry Deans International Scholarship, including eligibility, deadlines and how to apply.
Other postgraduate funding options
A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
- Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Submit your application.
Application deadlines
UK students
Make sure we receive your application at least 4 weeks before the start of the course. This gives us time to consider your application, if there are still places available.
International students
Make sure we receive your application at least 6 weeks before the start of the course.
This gives us time to consider your application, if there are still places available. It will also give you time to apply for a visa if we offer you a place.
Application assessment fee
We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.
If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to send 2 academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We'll assess your application on the strength of your:
- academic achievements
- relevant professional experience
- personal statement
- academic references
We will aim to send you a decision 6-8 weeks after you have submitted your application.
If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.
Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.
We may invite you to an interview, which will take place by phone if you live abroad. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if we'd like to talk to you before offering you a place.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
