Materials Chemistry

Entry requirements

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in chemistry or a closely related discipline with a strong chemistry component e.g. chemical engineering or materials science.

We may also consider a UK 2:2 honours degree, or its international equivalent, with relevant work experience and supportive references.

Applicants should have a strong chemistry background with at least three continuous years of chemistry subjects throughout their degree. We may accept fewer chemistry courses if applicants have a strong science background e.g. mathematics/physics.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Materials Chemistry has emerged as an important sub-discipline within Chemistry. It cross-cuts the traditional Organic/Inorganic/Physical boundaries of Chemistry and overlaps many disciplines from Engineering to the Biosciences.

Materials chemists now have a leading role in areas such as microelectronics, polymer science, catalysis and nanotechnology. They also make an important contribution to areas of more traditional chemistry such as the pharmaceutical sector where understanding the 'physical properties' of intermediates and products is now recognised as essential in optimising the synthesis and properties of pharmaceutically active ingredients in medicines.

The degree consists of advanced lecture courses such as:

• Properties & Reactions of Matter
• Chemistry of Functional Materials
• Physical Techniques in Action
• Techniques and Concepts in Inorganic Chemistry

These are studied concurrently with a predominantly practical based course offering an introduction to research methods.

Students then proceed to a period of full-time research project work leading to the submission of their Master's dissertation.