About this course

Our MChem Chemistry degree with research project abroad or industry experience is the first of its kind in the UK. It allows you to combine your degree with 6 months of industrial experience, or a research placement abroad at an overseas university. This degree is designed for ambitious undergraduates with academic or commercial research aspirations. You'll benefit from excellent career development opportunities and advanced practical training.

You’ll use state of the art equipment in our range of laboratories. These include the single crystal diffraction lab, the mass spectrometry lab and the only dedicated X-ray crystallography teaching facility in a UK university.

If you choose a placement in industry, you'll develop work experience, skills and awareness from spending time in a commercial environment. You'll also build key contacts.

If you choose to take an overseas university placement instead, you'll experience life abroad while working on an advanced research project in the university’s laboratories.

Both placement opportunities will stand out on your CV and impress employers. You’ll also have the support of our dedicated placement tutor throughout your time away from Southampton.

This degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry. When you graduate you'll be eligible for full membership status (MRSC).

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Chemistry Facilities Tour

Explore the recently refurbished chemistry facilities at Southampton with Dr Paul Duckmanton.

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.

Download

ODT

Download 2025-26 Course Description Document

Entry requirements

Academic year filter options

A-levels

AAA including chemistry or AAB including chemistry and one additional science subject

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.

A-levels with Extended Project Qualification

If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAB including chemistry, plus grade A in the EPQ or ABB including chemistry and an additional science subject, plus grade A in the EPQ

A-levels contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

or

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 points at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in chemistry or Pass, with 34 points overall with 6,6,5 in three Higher Level subjects including chemistry and an additional science subject.

International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information

Accepted science subjects include biology, human biology, physics, mathematics, further mathematics, psychology, geography and geology.

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.

or

BTEC

RQF BTEC

D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus A in A-level chemistry and A in an additional A-level subject.

DD in BTEC National Diploma plus grade A in A-level chemistry.

We will consider the BTEC Extended Diploma if studied alongside A-level chemistry.

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

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 the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed.Applicants who have not studied A-level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year. .

QCF BTEC

D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A in A-level chemistry and A in an additional A-level subject.

DD in the BTEC Diploma plus grade A in A-level chemistry.

We will consider the BTEC Extended Diploma if studied alongside A-level chemistry.

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

or

Entry requirements filter options

Other requirements

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

A-levels

AAA including chemistry

A-levels 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.

A-levels with Extended Project Qualification

If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAB including chemistry, plus grade A in the EPQ

A-levels contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme as follows:
ABB including chemistry

or

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Pass, with 36 points overall with 18 points at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in chemistry

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.

or

BTEC

RQF BTEC

D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus A in A-level chemistry and A in an additional A-level subject.

DD in BTEC National Diploma plus grade A in A-level chemistry.

We will consider the BTEC Extended Diploma if studied alongside A-level chemistry.

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

Additional information

General Studies, Critical Thinking and use of mathematics are excluded for entry. A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed. Applicants who have not studied A-level chemistry can apply for the Science Foundation Year.

QCF BTEC

D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus A in A-level chemistry and A in an additional A-level subject.

DD in the BTEC Diploma plus grade A in A-level chemistry.

We will consider the BTEC Extended Diploma if studied alongside A-level chemistry.

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

or

Entry requirements filter options

Other requirements

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

Got a question?

Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that 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 4-year degree will provide you with in-depth knowledge and practical training in all aspects of chemistry, and develop your understanding of its impact on modern society.

A key feature of this course is the 6-month placement at an overseas university, or within industry worldwide.

You'll get a thorough grounding in all aspects of chemistry with a comprehensive set of core modules. You can also shape your degree to suit your interests by choosing from a wide range of optional modules.

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 from options that may include:

Mathematical Methods in Chemistry
Ethics in Sciences
Engineering and Technology
Aquatic Chemistry and Pharmacology

Year 3 overview

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 module 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 3 optional chemistry modules from a choice of 8, including Medicinal Chemistry, Sustainable Chemistry and Atmospheric Chemistry.

Year 4 overview

Your 6-month work placement in industry, or research project at an overseas university, will take place from July to December.

Previous placement locations include:

University of Sydney
Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Humboldt University of Berlin
AkzoNobel (Netherlands)
Johnson Matthey (UK)

When you return to Southampton in semester 2, you'll complete advanced modules such as:

Atmospheric Chemistry
Macrocyclic Chemistry
Computational Chemistry
NMR Spectroscopy
Natural Products and Pharmaceuticals
Energy Applications of Electrochemistry
X-ray Crystallographic Techniques

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

You must study the following modules in year 1:

Analytical Chemistry

Analytical Chemistry is a measurement science consisting of a set of powerful ideas and methods that provide qualitative or quantitative information about the chemical composition of a sample. Analytical measurements are required in a wide range of fields...

Fundamentals of Kinetics and Quantum Mechanics

Physical Chemistry is concerned with the application of physics to the study of chemical systems. Through physical chemistry one can understand and predict the behaviour of chemical systems, thereby allowing these systems to be optimised. This module will...

Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry

Fundamentals of Thermodynamics and Equilibrium

Physical Chemistry is concerned with the application of physics to the study of chemical systems. Through physical chemistry one can understand and predict the behaviour of chemical systems, thereby allowing these systems to be optimised. This module will...

Introduction to Practical Chemistry I

This course is an introduction to practical chemistry, involving direct laboratory teaching (with detailed instructions) of a range of basic skills to set foundations for further learning. It includes the teaching of common experimental techniques, use of...

Introduction to Practical Chemistry II

This course follows on from CHEM1051 and teaches slightly more advanced basic skills, with the application of the Semester 1 skills and knowledge. More complex work-ups will be undertaken, with more emphasis on student input (or decision making) in the pr...

Main Group and Transition Metal Chemistry

This module will provide an introduction into the fundamentals of main group and transition metal chemistry, and introduce NMR.

Mathematical Methods in Chemistry I

The module provides advanced mathematics training necessary for students planning to specialise in physical chemistry, computational chemistry, spectroscopy, data science and quantitative finance. It also aims to provide training of rational reasoning ski...

Mathematical Skills for Chemists

Reactions in Organic Chemistry

The course introduces an array of chemical reactions that facilitate carbon-to-carbon bond formation and functional group interconversions.

Structure and Bonding

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)

How you'll spend your course time:

Study time

Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:

35%

Scheduled learning & teaching

65%

Independent learning

How we'll assess you

coursework, laboratory reports and essays
essays
individual and group projects
written and practical exams
placement assessment

Your assessment breakdown

Year 1:

56%

Written exam

23%

Coursework

21%

Practical exam

Academic support

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

Course leader

Russell Minns is the course leader.

Careers and employability

The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.

Download skills overview

Work experience opportunities

Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.

Careers services and support

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. 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.

Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.

More about careers support

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

UK students pay £9,535.
EU and international students pay £29,400.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and standard exams.

Find out how to:

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

Bursaries, scholarships and other funding

If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £36,200 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 to help fund your studies.

We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.

Support during your course

The Student Hub 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 EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

When you apply use:

UCAS course code: F101
UCAS institution code: S27

Apply for this course

What happens after you apply?

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

predicted grades
academic achievements
personal statement
academic reference

We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.

Equality and diversity

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

Got a question?

Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Related courses

Chemistry with External Placement (MChem) is a course in the Chemistry and chemical engineering subject area. Here are some other courses within this subject area:

c

BEng

Chemistry with External Placement (MChem)

About this course

Chemistry Facilities Tour

Learn more about this subject area

Chemistry and chemical engineering

Course location

Awarding body

Download the Course Description Document

Entry requirements

For Academic year 202526

A-levels

A-levels additional information

A-levels with Extended Project Qualification

A-levels contextual offer

International Baccalaureate Diploma

International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

BTEC

RQF BTEC

Additional information

QCF BTEC

Access to HE Diploma

Irish Leaving Certificate

Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)

Irish certificate additional information

Irish Offer Contextual

Scottish Qualification

Cambridge Pre-U

Cambridge Pre-U additional information

Cambridge Pre-U Offer Contextual

Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate additional information

Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer

T-Level

Other requirements

GCSE requirements

English language requirements

IELTS score requirements

Mature applicants

For Academic year 202627

A-levels

A-levels additional information

A-levels with Extended Project Qualification

A-levels contextual offer

International Baccalaureate Diploma

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

BTEC

RQF BTEC

Additional information

QCF BTEC

Irish Leaving Certificate

Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)

Scottish Qualification

Cambridge Pre-U

Cambridge Pre-U additional information

Cambridge Pre-U Offer Contextual

Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate additional information

Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer

T-Level

Other requirements

GCSE requirements

English language requirements

IELTS score requirements

Mature applicants

Got a question?

Course structure

Year 1 overview

Year 2 overview

Year 3 overview

Year 4 overview

Modules

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

Year 1 modules

Analytical Chemistry

Fundamentals of Kinetics and Quantum Mechanics

Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry

Fundamentals of Thermodynamics and Equilibrium