About this course
Chemistry plays a key role in tackling some of the world’s biggest problems, from climate change to disease. It helps us understand our earth, oceans, outer space, and bodies. This degree gives practical training in all aspects of chemistry and its impact on modern society. You'll graduate well prepared for a rewarding career in this fascinating discipline.
This programme is taught by academics at the forefront of chemistry research, giving you the opportunity to develop your knowledge in wide range of areas. These include computational chemistry, nuclear magnetic resonance and drug discovery.
You’ll use our outstanding state of the art equipment in our range of laboratories. These include the single crystal diffraction lab, the mass spectrometry lab and a dedicated X-ray crystallography teaching facility.
You'll also gain transferable skills such as problem-solving and data analysis, helping you keep your career options as open as possible.
This degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry. When you graduate you'll be eligible for full membership status (MRSC).
You can download the course details, including modules, in the programme specificationPDF opens in a new window (PDF, 250.51 KB).
Location and awarding body
The course location is Highfield campus in Southampton. The awarding body is University of Southampton.
Entry requirements
A-levels
AAB including chemistry with a pass in chemistry practical
or
ABB including chemistry and one additional science subject with a pass in all science practical components
A-levels additional information
Accepted A-level science subjects include biology, human biology, physics, mathematics, further mathematics, psychology, geography and geology. General Studies, Critical Thinking and use of mathematics are excluded for entry. A pass in all science practical components is required where applicable.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in chemistry
or
Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in chemistry and 5 at Higher Level in an additional science subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Accepted science subjects include biology, human biology, physics, mathematics, further mathematics, psychology, geography and geology.
Applications where Higher Level subjects have been studied without the full Diploma, will also be considered on a case by case basis.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Extended Certificate plus grades AB in A-level chemistry and a further A-level subject, with a pass in all science practical components
DD in the BTEC National Diploma plus B in A-level chemistry with a pass in the chemistry Practical
We do not accept the BTEC National Extended Diploma
Applicants with a BTEC National Extended Diploma should apply for the Science Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
General Studies, Critical Thinking and use of mathematics are excluded for entry. A pass in all science practical components is required where applicable.
Other qualifications
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
ABB , including chemistry (minimum grade A) and an additional science subject and grade A in the EPQ
or
BBB including chemistry and an additional science subject and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
Students who are highlighted in this way will receive additional scrutiny during confirmation of results
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) offer
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) StatementPDF opens in a new window (PDF, 62.17 KB) for further information.
Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC (RQF) (reformed)
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades AB in A-level chemistry with a pass in the chemistry Practical and a further A-level subject, with a pass in all science practical components
DD in the BTEC Diploma plus B in A-level chemistry with a pass in the chemistry Practical
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma
Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma should apply for the Science Foundation Year
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 45 must be at Distinction
Access to HE Diploma additional information
A core science Access to HE Diploma must be studied
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 including chemistry
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A1 A2 A2 A2 A2 A2 including chemistry
Irish Leaving Certificate additional information
There are no additional requirements
Scottish Qualification offers
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF, 111.01 KB) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 M2 in three Principal subjects including chemistry
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A-levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A-level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAB from three A-levels including chemistry with a pass in chemistry practical
or
AA from two A-levels including chemistry, with a pass in chemistry practical and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
or
ABB including chemistry and one additional science subject with a pass in all science practical components
or
AB from two A-levels including chemistry and one additional science subject, with a pass in all science practical components and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Accepted A-level science subjects include biology, human biology, physics, mathematics, further mathematics, psychology, geography and geology. General Studies, Critical Thinking and use of mathematics are excluded for entry. A pass in all science practical components is required where applicable.
European Baccalaureate
80% overall including grade 8 in chemistry and grade 8 in mathematics
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 6/B). Grade 7/A in GCSE mathematics is preferred for applicants not studying A-level mathematics
English language requirements
All applicants must demonstrate they possess at least a minimum standard of English language proficiency. Applicants requiring a visa to study in the UK who do not offer GCSE English language (or GCSE English) at the required level will need to meet the following English language proficiency requirement. Find out more about the University’s English Language requirements.
Band B IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in all components
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We also accept other English language tests.
Non-academic entry requirements
There are no additional requirements
International qualifications
Find a list of accepted international qualifications listed by country.
This is a list of the international qualifications that are recognised by the University of Southampton. If you are not sure that your qualifications meet the requirements of this course please contact our Admissions Teams.
Science Foundation Year
If you don’t have the right qualifications for direct entry into this course, you may still be able to enrol by taking our Science Foundation Year.
This programme may suit you if:
you are studying for A levels in subjects other than those we normally ask for
you are a mature applicant with skills and experience from employment and can show recent study
you come from a part of the world where the education system is different from the British A level system
Contact us if you have a question about what qualifications you have or might need.
Other ways to qualify
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Course structure
Our broad range of science and non-science modules will help you tailor your degree to your particular interests. Whether you want to stay in chemistry research, take up a role in industry, or go in to something completely different, you can shape your degree to your career aspirations.
Year 1
You’ll study a set of core topics that are essential to your developing knowledge, giving you a solid grounding in organic, inorganic and physical chemistry.
Topics include:
Molecular Structure
Reactivity
Thermodynamics
Kinetics
Atomic Structure
Bonding
Chemistry of the Elements
You can also choose options from the wider university, including mathematics, physics, biology and languages.
Year 2
You'll study core topics in chemistry such as:
Organic Reaction Mechanisms and Organic Synthesis
Atomic and Molecular Interactions, Change and Equilibrium
Symmetry in Chemistry
Transition of Metal and Organometallic Compounds
Bonding Theories of Solid-State Chemistry
You can also choose options that may include:
Mathematical Methods in Chemistry
Ethics in Sciences
Engineering and Technology
Aquatic Chemistry
Pharmacology
Year 3
This year, you'll take advanced modules in the core practical and theoretical areas of chemistry such as:
Pigments and F-block Chemistry
Natural Product Chemistry
Electrochemistry, Energy Storage, Pollution Control and Fuel Cells
Organometallic Chemistry
DNA and RNA
UV/visible Spectroscopy and Quadrupolar NMR
Kinetics of Interface Chemistry (gas/solid, liquid/solid)
In the advanced practical project you'll do research-oriented, open-ended experiments. These will allow you to develop new practical skills, manage your own learning and present your results.
You can also select optional chemistry modules such as Medicinal Chemistry, Sustainable Chemistry and Atmospheric Chemistry.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Modules year 1
Core modules
You must study and pass these core modules in year 1:
- Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I
- Fundamentals of Physical Chemistry II
- Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II
- Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry I
- Fundamentals of Physical Chemistry I
- Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry II
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 1:
- Introduction to Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Chemistry 1: Aquatic Chemistry
- Macromolecules of Life
- Mathematical Methods in Chemistry I
- Mathematical Methods in Chemistry II
- Ecology & Evolution
- Introduction to Astronomy and Space Science
- The Living Earth
- Earth and Ocean System
- Metabolism and Metabolic Disorders
- Systems Physiology
- Integrative Mammalian Physiology
Modules year 2
Core modules
You must study and pass these core modules in year 2:
- Aspects of Organic Synthesis
- Intermediate Inorganic Chemistry II
- Organic Reaction Mechanisms
- Change and Equilibrium
- Intermediate Inorganic Chemistry I
- Atomic and Molecular Interactions
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 2:
- Geohazards and Earth Resources
- Introduction to Ocean Biogeochemistry
- Organic Chemistry in the Environment
- Business Skills for Employability
- Ethics in Science, Engineering and Technology: Jekyll and Hyde
- The Living Earth
- Secondary Education: Critical Observations
- Environmental Chemistry 1: Aquatic Chemistry
- Pharmacology A
- Pharmacology B
- Introduction to Analytical Chemistry
- Introduction to Teachers and Teaching
- Molecular Cellular Biochemistry
- Introduction to Energy in The Environment
- Editing life: genetic engineering and synthetic biology
- Mathematical Methods in Chemistry I
- Exploring Proteins: Structure and Function
- Systems Physiology
- Creating an atmosphere: from pea-soupers to climate change
- Mathematical Methods in Chemistry II
- Primary Education: Critical Observations
Modules year 3
Compulsory modules
You must take the following compulsory modules in year 3:
Optional modules
You can choose from the following optional modules in year 3:
- Ethics in Science, Engineering and Technology: Jekyll and Hyde
- Synthetic Methods in Organic Chemistry
- Chemistry through the Computational Microscope
- The Management of Risk and Uncertainty
- Mathematical Methods in Chemistry II
- Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Communicating and Teaching: The Undergraduate Ambassadors Scheme
- Organic Materials Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry in the Environment
- Advanced Spectroscopy and Applications
- Sustainable Chemistry
- Principles, Techniques and Energy Applications of Electrochemistry
- Macrocyclic and Bio-inorganic Chemistry
- Supramolecular Chemistry of Functional Molecules and Materials
- Atmospheric Chemistry: An Experimental and Computational Approach
- Atoms, Molecules and Spins: Quantum Mechanics in Chemistry and Spectroscopy
- X-Ray Crystallographic Techniques, Advanced Main Group Chemistry and Applications
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Support for your studies
You'll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
How you’ll spend your study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study, year by year:
Year 1
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 37%
- Independent study
- 63%
- Placement
- 0%
Year 2
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 38%
- Independent study
- 62%
- Placement
- 0%
Year 3
- Scheduled learning and teaching
- 33%
- Independent study
- 67%
- Placement
- 0%
Course leader
Andrew Hector is the course leader.
How we’ll assess you
We’ll assess you using:
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown, year by year:
Year 1
- Written exam
- 66%
- Practical exam
- 21%
- Coursework
- 13%
Year 2
- Written exam
- 78%
- Practical exam
- 19%
- Coursework
- 3%
Year 3
- Written exam
- 50%
- Practical exam
- 17%
- Coursework
- 33%
Careers
This versatile degree gives you a strong foundation for a rewarding career as a professional chemist. You'll also develop transferable skills that can be used for other types of careers.
Most of our graduates go on to chemistry-related roles, but many enter other areas. These include:
sciences
engineering
management
law
computing
technology
telecommunications
The degree is supported by our key skills training, which helps you develop the essential attributes needed for career success.
Find out more about careers in chemistry.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). 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 and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
You’ll have the opportunity to take a year-long paid placement in a company of your choice to give you a head start in the graduate market. This placement is an option you can choose to take between the 2nd and 3rd years of your degree.
During your placement, you can apply the knowledge and skills you’ve developed during your degree, and gain vital professional experience.
Fees, costs and funding
UK/EU fees
You'll pay £9,250 in tuition fees for the academic year 2020 to 2021. This fee might change for further years of your course.
International student fees
You’ll pay £21,580 each year. This fee will stay the same throughout your studies.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Extra costs you might have to pay
- Approved Calculators
- Textbooks
- IT
- Printing and Photocopying Costs
- Equipment and Materials
- Clothing
- Stationery
See the full list of extra items and costs in the programme specificationPDF opens in a new window 2020 to 2021 (PDF, 250.51 KB).
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
Life at Southampton
The University offers a friendly, diverse and welcoming home for you while you study. You'll work, live and socialise with students from more than 130 countries.
Clubs, societies and facilities
Our campuses have:
cafes and restaurants
bars
health centres
banks
a post office
student shops
a hairdresser
Our sports facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool, a gym with 140 fitness stations, squash courts, a bouldering wall, outdoor pitches and much more. There are over 80 sports clubs you could join, and activity classes including yoga and spin.
We have an internationally known theatre, concert hall, art gallery and cinema showing everything from mainstream blockbusters to international arthouse classics. You could perform at a gig, concert or show, take part in an exhibition or join a writers’ workshop. Find out more about arts and culture at Southampton.
Whatever your passion or community, you can find like-minded people at one of the Students’ Union clubs and societies. There are more than 200 to join, and social activities in every hall of residence.
Support while you study
We aim to help you deal with any problems you might come across, so you can make the most of your time at university. We offer support with:
mental health, learning difficulties and disability
money and accommodation
childcare
computers and IT
How to apply
When you apply use:
UCAS Course Code: F100
UCAS Institution Code: S27
What happens after you apply
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.