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 programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
In light of COVID-19, we’ve made changes to some elements of course delivery for 2020-21. For details as to how this has changed delivery for this course, please view the Addendum to the Programme Specification PDF.
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 an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
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
COVID-19: we've made some changes to the structure of the course for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
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
COVID-19: we've made some changes to our modules for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
For entry in Academic Year 2020-21
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
You must also choose from the following modules:
Learning and assessment
COVID-19: we've made some changes to our learning and assessment methods for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
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 2020). 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 £24,084.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.
Find out how to:
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.
Funding your postgraduate studies
A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from 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
Applications must be received no later than 4 weeks before the start of the course. You must supply all supporting documentation at least 2 weeks before starting your course.
International students
We recommend you apply at least 6 weeks before the start of the course to ensure you're able to meet our requirements and apply for a visa in time.
We cannot guarantee students who do not meet these deadlines will be able to begin their course.
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.
Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.
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'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
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
