About this course
Learn about the physics of magnetic resonance and its real-world applications on this unique master’s course at the University of Southampton. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy is crucial in providing insights for chemistry, biology and medicine. On this MSc you’ll benefit from hands-on experience with the latest magnetic resonance equipment. You’ll graduate with the knowledge and practical skills to move into industrial or academic research.
Magnetic resonance occurs when materials are placed in a strong magnetic field and exposed to radio waves.
It is used in chemistry through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and in medical diagnostics through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
On this UK master’s course you’ll learn how fundamental physics can be used to help solve real-world problems: with this degree you could help develop new applications for diagnosing cancer or protecting the environment.
The topics you’ll study include:
- the dynamics of nuclear spins
- the practical aspects of magnetic resonance research
- current problems in magnetic resonance research
- numerical simulation methods
There’s a strong focus on practical experience throughout the course. We’ll teach you how to:
- use modern magnetic resonance spectrometers
- gather and process NMR data
- interpret NMR data to answer research questions
You’ll also benefit from our strong industry connections and industry-standard facilities.
Our world-leading contributions to magnetic resonance research include:
- designing the NMR pulse methods used in all NMR spectrometers
- the discovery of nuclear spin quantum states with exceptionally long lifetimes
- developing miniature NMR detectors to study extremely small samples
Our flexible approach means you can adapt the course to your personal interests or career plans. A wide range of optional modules allows you to complement your knowledge of magnetic resonance with specialist courses in molecular cell biology, cancer biology, advanced quantum physics or computational chemistry.
Course lead
Your course leader is Dr Joern Werner, Reader in Structural Biology within Biological Sciences. His research interests include the role of protein dynamics in molecular recognition processes. Read Dr Werner's staff profile to find out more about his work.
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:1 degree in one of these subjects:
- chemistry
- physics
- biochemistry
- biomedical sciences
- engineering
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
- 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
This is full-time master’s course. Your studies will last a full 12 months.
For the first 8 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll focus on the taught part of your course. This is made up of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules that we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options.
Exams are held at the end of semesters 1 and 2.
For the rest of the course, you’ll work independently on your research project and dissertation.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
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 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2021-22
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
This module aims to provide students with an introduction into a selection of advanced concepts in magnetic resonance. The module will introduce the students to a range of applications with a focus on current topics of research in magnetic resonance.
The project involves approximately 600 hours of commitment including 14 weeks of full-time practical-based research work (ca. 450 hours). It commences with literature research and project planning, some of which has been performed in other modules previou...
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:
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 ...
Biomedical research, applications and many clinical tools are underpinned by modern spectroscopic and imaging techniques. These serve as valuable analytical tools for routine monitoring, diagnosis and prognosis as well as aids to therapeutic intervention ...
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...
The Natural Sciences degree programme is based on a backbone of modules that employ context-based learning (also referred to as problem-based or active learning). This approach to learning places significant responsibility on the student to identify sourc...
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...
Most biological processes involve interactions between macromolecules. The module discusses selected examples and explains techniques used to study molecular interactions.
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...
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...
Learning and assessment
Learning
The learning activities for this course include:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Assessment
We’ll assess you through:
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- a dissertation
- essays
- group essays
- individual and group projects
- written exams
Dissertation
You’ll carry out a personal research project over the summer and present your findings in a dissertation.
This is a chance for you to develop your research skills and in-depth knowledge of a topic that interests you. It might even lead to the publication of your first scientific paper.
Research topics could include:
- the interactions of a new drug with its target protein
- developing a new pulse sequence for manipulating nuclear spins
- developing a new hyperpolarisation method
During the project you’ll become a full member of a research group and work alongside PhD students and postdoctoral researchers.
You'll have regular meetings with your supervisor throughout the process.
Academic Support
We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.
You’ll also have a PhD student mentor.
Careers
With this master’s degree you’ll be well prepared for research and development roles in areas such as:
- chemical analytics
- medical sector
- biotechnical industry
- pharmaceuticals
- analytical instrument development
You’ll also be in a great position to continue your studies at PhD level.
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 £24,400.
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.
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.
Application assessment fee
We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for any postgraduate taught course that starts in or after September 2021.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees. 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, if you're applying for a Master of Research (MRes) degree, or if you're applying for a PGCE course via UCAS, you will not need to pay the fee. 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.
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.
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
