| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-26 | - |
Program Overview
This BSc (Hons) degree in pure chemistry from Loughborough University provides a comprehensive study of the subject with a focus on practical experience and flexible module choices. Students gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, develop analytical and problem-solving skills, and have the opportunity to tailor their studies through optional modules and a potential placement year. The program prepares graduates for careers in chemistry, scientific research, and other sectors.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview:
This BSc (Hons) degree in pure chemistry opens up the fascinating world of chemistry, providing you with plenty of hands-on practical experience and flexible module choices - taught in our outstanding state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. Chemistry is a vibrant, fascinating subject that enhances our understanding of the natural and physical world and often provides the key to solving global challenges. This is why chemistry students can go on to make a real difference in the world, tackling issues like climate change, hunger and disease. Throughout your undergraduate studies you will gain practical hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art STEMLab facilities - gaining highly developed lab skills in the process. As your knowledge of chemistry grows, you will also develop analytical and problem-solving skills that have value in a wide variety of employment contexts. Our placement scheme gives you the opportunity to gain highly sought-after workplace experience and apply what you have learnt in a real job with real responsibilities, often working with major companies and organisations (for example, GlaxoSmithKline, RB, Lubrizol, and Pirelli). You could also broaden your horizons with a year studying abroad.
Objectives:
- This BSc Honours course is orientated towards the practice of chemistry in the world outside the University.
- Our 3 (or 4 year sandwich) BSc equips you for employment in chemistry, scientific and other sectors.
- The 4 (or 5 year sandwich) MChem is suited for students who may wish to pursue a PhD or a career in industrial research.
Outline
Structure:
- The main areas of inorganic, organic and physical chemistry form the backbone of the BSc Chemistry degree, with additional modules in spectroscopy, analytical chemistry, and mathematics.
- Laboratory classes, workshops and seminars support these lectures.
- After Year 2, the development of core chemistry continues along with optional topics which include drug synthesis and action, advanced analytical research methodologies, energy and equilibria, and inorganic chemistry.
- In the final year of your Chemistry degree, you will study research techniques and methods that are complemented with further advanced modules in chemistry.
Content:
Year 1
Semester 1 & 2
- Compulsory: Laboratory and Computer Skills 1
- Compulsory: Fundamentals of Physical Chemistry
- Compulsory: Fundamental Synthetic Chemistry
- Compulsory: Spectroscopy and Analysis 1
- Compulsory: Energetics and Equilibria 1
- Compulsory: Structure and Reactivity 1
Year 2
Semester 1 & 2
- Compulsory: Laboratory and Skills 2 (Chemistry)
- Compulsory: Applications of Physical Chemistry
- Compulsory: Organic Chemistry - Structure, Reactivity and Applications
- Compulsory: Thermodynamics, Kinetics and Quanta
- Compulsory: Spectroscopy and Analysis
- Compulsory: Structure and Reactivity 2
Optional
- Further Topics in Chemistry
Year 3
Semester 1 & 2
- Compulsory: Investigative Projects
- Compulsory: Current Trends in Inorganic Chemistry
- Compulsory: Energy, Molecules and Applications
- Compulsory: Modern Aspects of Organic Chemistry
Optional
- Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis
- Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism
- Science Communication
Additional award:
By undertaking a year on professional placement or working in industry, you will gain an additional award alongside your final qualification.
Individual Modules:
Compulsory Modules:
- Laboratory and Computer Skills 1: The aims of the module are to: Enable students to develop essential laboratory skills that are required in inorganic, organic, analytical and physical chemistry, and introduce students to fundamental software packages required for chemical report writing and data manipulation.
- Fundamental Synthetic Chemistry: The aims of the module are to introduce students to the fundamental principles underpinning core chemistry topics in inorganic, organic, analytical.
- Spectroscopy and Analysis 1: The aim of this module is to introduce the principles and experimental methods of spectroscopy and analytical chemistry as a measurement science.
- Energetics and Equilibria 1: The aim of this module is to introduce concepts in thermodynamics, redox and phase equilibria, and to introduce their applications to the understanding of chemical and physical change, and in chemical analysis.
- Structure and Reactivity 1: The aim of this module is to introduce the fundamental concepts of structure and how this influences reactivity in organic and inorganic chemistry.
- Laboratory and Skills 2 (Chemistry): The aims of this module are to further develop essential laboratory skills from part A that are required in inorganic, organic, analytical, physical chemistry and polymer chemistry.
- Spectroscopy and Analysis: The aim of this module is to familiarise students with the theory and applications of analytical separation and structural elucidation techniques, and to develop their analytical data manipulation skills.
- Structure and Reactivity 2: The aim of this module is to introduce the major types of chemical reactions in organic and inorganic chemistry, and the relationships between chemical structure, reactivity and behaviour of organic and inorganic compounds.
- Further Topics in Chemistry: The aim of the module is to enable students to understand how concepts of python programming, heterogeneous catalysis, elemental analysis and conducting polymers are applied in chemistry.
- Investigative Projects: The aims of this module are to develop research skills through critical assessment of scientific literature and introduction to methods and procedures for undertaking investigative research work.
- Energy, Molecules and Applications: The aims of this module are to introduce the student to advanced concepts in physical chemistry, and their application in electrochemistry, photochemistry, computational methods and the properties of materials.
- Modern Aspects of Organic Chemistry: The aim of this module is to review modern methods of organic synthesis and introduce advanced NMR techniques.
- Science Communication: The aims of the module are: to develop a chemistry related educational outreach activity
- Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis: The aim of this module is for the student to understand the analytical methods used in pharmaceutical and biochemical laboratories and the role of regulators in drug development. This includes analogue synthesis and use of natural compounds as drug candidates.
Optional Modules:
- Further Topics in Chemistry: The aim of the module is to enable students to understand how concepts of python programming, heterogeneous catalysis, elemental analysis and conducting polymers are applied in chemistry.
- Science Communication: The aims of the module are: to develop a chemistry related educational outreach activity
- Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis: The aim of this module is for the student to understand the analytical methods used in pharmaceutical and biochemical laboratories and the role of regulators in drug development. This includes analogue synthesis and use of natural compounds as drug candidates.
Assessment
General:
- You are assessed by examination and coursework. Depending on the module, coursework may include written laboratory reports, oral presentations, poster presentations, research papers, peer review and dissertations.
Year 1:
- Assessment methods: Laboratory reports, presentations, examinations, research paper
Year 2:
- Assessment methods: Laboratory reports, presentations, examinations, research paper
- Assessment criteria: Understanding of key chemistry concepts, experimental skills, critical analysis, scientific writing, group work, laboratory safety
Year 3:
- Assessment methods: Laboratory reports, presentations, examinations, dissertation
- Assessment criteria: Advanced knowledge of chemistry, research expertise, analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication skills, originality
Assessment:
- Written laboratory reports: 30% (Year 1 & 2), 20% (Year 3)
- Oral presentations: 10% (Year 1 & 2), 15% (Year 3)
- Poster presentations: 5% (Year 1 & 2)
- Research papers: 15% (Year 2), 20% (Year 3)
- Peer review: 5% (Year 1 & 2)
- Dissertations: 40% (Year 3)
- Examinations: 40% (Year 1 & 2)
Teaching
General:
- Taught by academic staff who are engaged in wide-ranging research with real-world impact in areas such as health and medicine, crime and security, sustainability, and clean energy.
- Our courses are delivered through a blend of lectures, tutorials, and laboratory work. This approach ensures that you receive a well-rounded education that covers both the theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry.
Faculty:
- Led by highly qualified and experienced academics who are passionate about their subject and committed to providing you with a stimulating and enriching learning experience.
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures: Used to introduce key concepts and theories.
- Laboratory work: Enables you to gain hands-on experience of experimental techniques.
- Project work: Encourages independent learning and research skills.
Unique Approaches:
- Focus on problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Emphasis on laboratory experience and practical skills.
- Opportunity to undertake a research project in your final year, giving you first-hand experience of being a scientist. This ensures that you are taught by experts who are at the forefront of their field, and receive an education that is informed by the latest research developments.
UK fees Full-time course per annum £9,250 Placement year Approx. 20% of the full-time fee International fees Full-time course per annum £28,600 Placement year Approx. 20% of the full-time fee University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Additional costs Costs that are not included in tuition fees include textbooks and stationary. Protective clothing (including a lab coat and safety glasses) are provided. What's included in your tuition costs Fee status Accommodation and hall fees
