Chemistry Apprenticeship

Program Overview

This distance learning BSc (Level 6) Chemistry Apprenticeship combines theoretical and practical chemistry with industry-specific electives, providing a solid foundation for a career in the chemical industry. Students gain hands-on experience through summer schools and workplace projects, while flexible learning options accommodate work schedules. Graduates emerge with four years of industry experience, making them highly sought-after candidates in the field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Developed in partnership with industry, this distance learning BSc (Level 6) Chemistry Apprenticeship supports the creation of a highly-skilled graduate workforce through a work-based program tailored to meet the needs of the sponsoring company. The degree provides a solid foundation in the chemical sciences, with a focus on the application of chemistry in specific industries. Students apply their knowledge in their companies and develop practical and theoretical skills throughout their studies. In the first two years, students develop a sound understanding of theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry, with core content delivered across traditional areas (organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry). Following this, they select elective modules, developed in collaboration with industry, relevant to their career. These elective modules provide a direct link between the student's core learning and the application of chemistry in their industrial area. Laboratory and study skills are taught in two-week summer schools, while all other learning is taught at a distance, negating the need for a day release system and providing flexibility for students and employers.

Outline:

Year 1

• Organic Chemistry 1 (at distance)
• Inorganic Chemistry 1 (at distance)
• Study Skills for Apprentices
• Practical Chemistry for Apprentices 1

Year 2

• Core
• Physical Chemistry 1 (at distance)
• Organic Chemistry 2 (at distance)
• Practical Chemistry for Apprentices 2
• Option
• Cosmetic Science (at distance)
• Mass Transfer Operations (at distance)
• Biomolecules and Cells (at distance)
• Elective (at distance)

Year 3

• Core
• Physical Chemistry 2 (at distance)
• Inorganic Chemistry 2 (at distance)
• Practical Chemistry for Apprentices 3
• Option
• Cosmetic Science (at distance)
• Mass Transfer Operations (at distance)
• Biomolecules and Cells (at distance)
• Elective (at distance)

Year 4

• Core
• Work-based Research Project
• Option
• Introduction to Polymer Science (at distance)
• Bio-organic and Bio-inorganic Chemistry (at distance)
• Organic Chemistry 3 (at distance)

Careers:

Chemists are attractive to employers for their skills directly related to their specialization and the professional skills developed through studying the discipline. The range of careers available to chemists is vast. Apprentices graduating from this degree will have four years of experience working in the chemical industry, making them some of the most desirable chemistry graduates in the country.

Other:

• Students can apply for membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC).
• The program is designed to give employers flexibility in their apprentice's training schedule while ensuring they get training in all aspects of chemical science expected from a standard undergraduate degree.
• This route of learning is highly desirable to students and can attract the best talent from schools and colleges.

By studying a Degree Apprenticeship, Apprentices can obtain a degree at no cost to them as individuals. By employing Apprentices, organisations can make the most of their Apprenticeship levy fees and train staff in a cost effective way.