Chemical Structure Determination
Undergraduate
MChem
Chemistry
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Attendance
Full-time
With placement
Part-time
Course
Four year
Five year
Eight year
Next enrolment
September 2020
In a nutshell
MChem Chemistry is a four-year integrated Masters programme leading to a level 7 qualification. You will gain a thorough grounding in all aspects of chemistry and carry out two separate research projects in addition to a full training in modern laboratory methods. You can choose from a wide range of specialised optional modules in the fourth year.
Chemistry is one of the most versatile scientific disciplines and opportunities in the field continue to grow and develop. We integrate the core branches of organic, physical, inorganic and analytical chemistry to meet the needs of employers for highly skilled chemists across the range of modern chemical industries.
With an emphasis on integrating your understanding of concepts and applying laboratory skills to find answers to current problems, you will appreciate how chemistry and its applications can transform the world we live in. You will gain experience in sustainable chemistry, a vital area of the modern chemicals industry, also known as ‘green’ chemistry.
We pride ourselves on our research and have recently invested extensively in our facilities to ensure that you are able to complete research projects that are exciting and inspiring, contributing useful findings to the field. Examples of research areas include nanotechnology, drug design and repurposing, cancer and antimicrobial research and toxicology.
In the NSS 2020 survey, Chemical Sciences courses received 92% satisfaction with learning resources [University of Salford analysis of unpublished NSS 2020 data].
You will:
- Have the opportunity to specialise in your preferred area of chemistry in your final year
- Study an exciting programme, which will provide you with the sought after skills needed to work in the broad chemical industries sector
- Carry out two separate research projects at levels 6 and 7, preparing you for research and development roles or a PhD after graduation
Placement
options available
International
students accepted
This is for you if...
1.
You have an inquiring mind and a thirst for new ideas about how to improve everyday lives
2.
You have a need to ‘experiment’ and enjoy the laboratory
3.
You are curious to know more about the world and how it work
All about the course
In year one you will build your foundation in core areas of chemistry. In year two you will develop chemistry-based analytical skills. At the end of year two, you can undertake an optional placement year, which you arrange with our support. After the placement, which in some cases may be salaried, you return to complete your final year, making it a five year course. In the third year emphasis will be placed upon chemical research and highlighting new developments in the field of chemistry. In your final year, you can choose from a wide range of specialised optional modules.
Year one
This module introduces the subject of molecular characterisation and looks at the principles of spectroscopic analysis using ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy.
Introduction to Organic Chemistry
The aim of this module is to introduce organic chemistry through structure and mechanism. You will study organic reactions of key functional groups such as alkenes, carbonyl and aromatic compounds.
Introduction to Physical Chemistry
The aim of this module is to introduce physical chemistry through energy and chemical bonding. You will study topics such as reaction kinetics, chemical equilibria and atomic and molecular structure.
Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry
In this module you will learn the principles of key areas of chemical analysis and inorganic chemistry such as electrochemistry, voltammetry and chromatography.
Introductory Biochemistry
The aim of this module is to introduce principles of biochemistry. You will study biochemical pathways and organelles, relevant to cell biology.
Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Skills
This module is designed to help you facilitate and develop effective use of laboratory apparatus in the performance of basic techniques, and to develop practical laboratory skills relevant to biology and chemistry.
Year two
Applied Chemical Skills
This module is designed to help you advance your laboratory techniques relevant to chemistry.
Chemical and Biochemical Research Skills
The aim of this module is to help you understand how to conduct scientific research from basic principles and includes: critical searching, citation and evaluation of research-based literature, data interpretation, analysis and presentation, report writing and communication.
Bio-inorganic Chemistry
In this module you will learn the principles of inorganic chemistry and its applications to human health and to the environment.
Core Organic Chemistry
The aim of this module is to build upon topics covered in the Introduction to Organic Chemistry module. You will study organic reactions in more detail and develop practical skills in organic chemistry. This module will also prepare you for year three projects and taught modules.
Green Chemistry
In this module you will learn principles and application of sustainable chemistry, including microwave synthesis, flow reactions, use of biotechnology, combinatorial and high-throughput green chemistry.
Core Physical Chemistry
The aim of this module is to further develop knowledge of physical chemistry focusing upon topics such as quantum mechanics, spectroscopy and thermodynamics.
Year three
Frontiers in Inorganic Chemistry
The aim of this module is to expand your knowledge in the area of inorganic chemistry, placing emphasis in the application of techniques such as radiation, biomaterials, metals, supercritical solvents, nanoscience and symmetry.
Advanced Organic Chemistry
In this module you will study more advanced topics in organic chemistry such as concepts and rules governing pericyclic reactions and designing stereoselective routes to chiral molecules.
Advanced Physical Chemistry
The aim of this module is to advance your knowledge of physical chemistry focusing upon topics such as application of kinetics, NMR, spectroscopy, condensed matter and colloids and thermodynamic methods.
Science and Industry
This module focuses upon key areas of the scientific industry such as marketing, health and safety and legal issues. External contributions from industry experts will enhance your learning on this module. It is aimed at improving student employability.
Research Project and Professional Skills
An opportunity to work with a research group and contribute to original research in a relevant area of medicinal chemistry. The module also focuses upon key professional skills aimed at improving employability.
Year four
New
Research Project and Scientific Writing
An intensive research project on a topic of your choosing, lasting from September to January and leading to an article in Salford’s own online journal.
Choose three optional modules
Advanced Synthesis
You will use synthetic case studies to gain an in-depth knowledge of modern synthetic methods.
New
Advanced Spectroscopy and Spectrometry
You will use the most up to date methods and instrumentation to detect, identify and characterise molecules.
New
Advanced Catalysis
You will become expert in the physical, inorganic and organic aspects of catalyst design and application.
New
Case Studies in Drug Development
You will look at essential medicines right from their discovery/design through to clinical use.
New
Modern Methods of Drug Design
You will study the latest techniques, computational and genomic used for drug discovery.
New
Computational Chemistry Methods
This module will provide you with practical experience and a theoretical basis of computational chemistry.
New
Advanced Materials Chemistry
You will learn about the synthesis, analysis and properties of modern materials
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
The School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Rising to the challenge of a rapidly changing world, our multi-disciplinary courses will shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants and conservationists. Shaped by industry and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the skills to become unstoppable in your career.
Facilities
You will experience a modern learning environment, enriched with accessible lecture theatres and AV-equipped classrooms, computing suites and multimedia libraries, with access to industry journals, databases, and simulation software.
As a chemistry student, you will have access to our state-of-the-art, integrated teaching laboratory known as the Bodmer Lab. The Bodmer Lab is a specialist, purpose-built facility and ensures our students benefit from the latest technologies to support their learning and remain on the cutting edge of innovation and discovery.
What about after uni?
EMPLOYMENT
Graduates from the programme will be highly skilled, particularly in research areas. The sector has highlighted the requirement for chemistry graduates with a knowledge of sustainability and green chemistry which this programme will provide. The number of job vacancies within the UK and North West for chemists increased in the five years to 2017 by 64% and 52% respectively.
Potential employers of chemistry graduates include the chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries but MChem graduates are also highly employable outside of their discipline. The University of Salford places much emphasis on employability, placements and technical support meaning that Salford chemistry graduates are fully equipped to enter into industry or pursue further study.
FURTHER STUDY
PhD in chemical or biochemical research
Career Links
The focus on research-led teaching means that our students will benefit from research active staff, many of whom are focusing on emerging areas of research that will link into existing activities of environmental science, drug discovery and development and translational medicine. The school is also home to researchers who work with the children’s cancer research charity, Kidscan, and has growing industry links with the Alderley Park innovation centre (Biohub). Close links with organisations such as these provide you with unique opportunities for chemistry-related placements and research projects that are not available to students from other institutions.
This course also has links with the international chemical company BASF and the Manchester Communications Academy. Academics within the University are continually working on developing more links with other companies in different chemical sectors to provide you with the best possible opportunities and experiences.
What you need to know
APPLICANT PROFILE
Chemistry is one of the most versatile scientific disciplines and if you want to be a chemist and have interests in designing and making new materials, analysing different scenarios, working towards sustainability for a green world, helping to cure diseases and to fight pollution, are interested in legal and ethical aspects of science, or want to know more about businesses; then this is the programme for you!
You will need to have a strong grounding and a clear interest in chemistry, usually either by having A-level in chemistry or perhaps by completing our foundation year. However, we recognise that students may be returning to education after a period in industry that may be relevant to this subject.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
International applicants will be required to show a proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0, with no element below 5.5, is proof of this
Please note: The entry criteria below are related to entry onto this course in the 2020/2021 academic year. If you’re interested in a future intake year, please check the course entry on UCAS.
Standard entry requirements
GCSE
English and Maths at grade C/4 or above. Equivalents are accepted.
UCAS tariff points
128 UCAS points
A Level
128 UCAS points including Chemistry at A2 or equivalent. A Pass in the practical element of Science A levels must be achieved
BTEC National Diploma
DDM in a suitable science subject
BTEC Higher National Diploma
Possible entry to year three
Foundation Degree
Possible entry to year three
Scottish Highers
128 points from Higher Level. To include specific subjects: Chemistry
Irish Leaving Certificate
128 points from Higher Level. To include specific subjects: Chemistry
European Baccalaureate
Pass in Diploma of at least 60% including at least one science subject
International Baccalaureate
31 points including grade 4 in Higher Level Chemistry
Access to HE
QAA Approved - Pass with 128 UCAS points. To include specific subjects: Suitable Science subject (Chemistry) Applicants holding Nursing/Midwifery/Health Access courses - refer to tutor
Alternative entry requirements
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2020/21 | £9,250per year |
| Full-time international | 2020/21 | £15,240per year |
| Part-time | 2020/21 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying. |
| Full-time home | 2021/22 | £9,250per year |
| Full-time international | 2021/22 | £15600per year |
| Part-time | 2021/22 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying. |
Additional costs
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Scholarships for international students
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships.
We have a range of scholarships available for students applying for courses in 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. Our Global Gold Excellence Scholarship is worth £3,500 and our Global Silver Excellence Scholarship is worth £3,000 - both are available for students studying in our 2021/22 intakes.
We also offer the Salford International Excellence Scholarship which offers up to £5,000 discount on tuition fees. As this is a prestigious award we have a limited number of these scholarships available.
See the full range of our International Scholarships.
Interested in starting university in September 2021? Book your place on our next Open Day.