Studying Chemical Sciences at Salford

Chemistry students

Get ready to study chemical sciences

Congratulations on your offer to study at Salford - we've got so much more to tell you!

To help get you ready for study this September, we've put together some info about how you will study this fascinating subject, what to expect in year one and share answers to some of the top applicant questions.

Remember, if you have any questions about your application, you can email enquiries@salford.ac.ukor call us on +44 (0)161 295 4545.

Want to connect with other applicants? Join our applicant facebook group.

Find Out More About Our Programmes

BSc (Hons) Biochemistry

BSc (Hons) Biochemistry with Foundation Year

BSc (Hons) Biochemistry with Studies in the USA

BSc (Hons) Chemistry

BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science

BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science with Foundation Year

Info

Offer Holder Hub

Visit our Offer Holder Hub to explore more about student life at Salford. 

If you have any questions not covered on these pages, you can contact our friendly team at enquiries@salford.ac.uk, or by phone on +44 (0)161 295 4545.

Top applicant questions - answered!

How much time will I have in the labs?

Your learning will be split between practical lab sessions where you will learn to use the equipment and carry out your own research projects, and lectures which will give you the theoretical foundation and knowledge for each module. 

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Will the university help me to find work experience and industry placements?

Whilst students are responsible for securing their own work experience and industry placements, our tutors will guide and support you through the process. Industry experience not only enables you to apply your knowledge in real-world situations but allows you to form those vital connections early on in your career. We have links with a range of leading organisations and, where possible, will assist students in securing placements.

What are my career prospects after graduation?

Our chemical science programmes provide graduates with an excellent basis for a wide range of careers. Depending on your chosen course, you will be able to pursue a career in a range of areas from pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies to forensic science. Depending on your chosen undergraduate course, you may undertake a career in research, development, quality assurance, or assisting legal cases. 

What does it mean if my course is accredited?

Degree accreditation is acknowledgement, by an external body, that a programme meets a defined set of criteria. BSc (Hons) Biochemistry, BSc (Hons) Biochemistry with Studies in the USA, and BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology which supports the advancement of skills and education in the bio-sciences. 

What will my timetable in first year look like?

Your timetable will typically be a mixture of laboratory classes (roughly a couple of three-hour sessions a week) Lectures (a few two hour lectures a week) and tutorials. The ratio of lecture to labs depends on the module. Typically, a module will have around 12 two-hour lectures and around four three-hour labs. Some modules are entirely practical based - such as the first-year skills module which aims to give you all the practical skills you will need during your time at the university.

What level of difficulty can I expect in the first year?

The first year is designed to provide a solid foundation on which to build your degree. Many modules are fundamental and we will be building on existing knowledge you have. There are also two modules designed to help you adapt to life as a university student. One teaches you how to learn in an independent way and the other gives you loads of practical skills you can use during your time here and take forward into a science-based career.

Do we need to purchase anything in advance of starting the course?

Nothing in particular, you will just need to bring usual equipment of pens, pencils, etc. We will provide you with a lab coat and for each module you will receive a reading list but any book on the list is also in the library.