1.2 Researching the Right Chemistry Degree for You

Being a broad, varied science means that one Chemistry course does not necessarily equal another when it comes to university degrees. There are a multitude of different Chemistry and Chemistry related degrees offered at UK universities. This lesson will run you through the busy jungle of degree choices that you must navigate with care as an aspiring chemist.

The course content of any degree will vary slightly from university to university. Checking to see if the course modules match your specific interests is a good start. Chemistry is also commonly offered as a 3 year bachelors or a 4 year integrated masters degree. An integrated masters sees the student study for an extra year, receiving a MSc instead of a BSc. In contrast a stand alone masters is an extra degree (1-2 years) completed after receiving a bachelor's degree,

Additionally, courses providing opportunities for placements abroad or in industry are available. Despite these differences the main focus of a pure Chemistry course will always be a comprehensive education in the principles of the subject, regardless of university and placement opportunities.

Beyond single honours Chemistry, you will find degrees with a more specialised focus, allowing you to delve into areas like Medicinal Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or Materials Science. There are also interdisciplinary options that combine Chemistry with subjects like Biology, Physics, Mathematics, or even Management, ideal for students looking to broaden their expertise or combine their interests. Some common variants of Chemistry courses will be listed here so you can start to think about what course might be right for you.