Chemistry (BSc)

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 overview

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 overview

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 overview

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.

The learning activities for this course include the following:

• lectures
• classes and tutorials
• coursework
• individual and group projects
• independent learning (studying on your own)

How you'll spend your course time:

Academic support

You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.

Course leader

Paul Duckmanton is the course leader.

This versatile chemistry 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 course 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.

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK/EU students pay £9,250.
• International students pay £21,580.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.

Find out how to:

• pay your tuition fees

• calculate your student finances

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:

• accommodation costs

• living costs

• budgeting advice

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.

When you apply use:

• UCAS course code: F100
• UCAS institution code: S27

Apply for 2020 entry now

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.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.