Chemistry

Information for applicants and offer holders to our undergraduate Chemistry programmes.

We're delighted that you're considering joining us at the School of Chemistry! As part of a vibrant community at one of the world's top universities, you'll be at the heart of addressing global challenges in energy, health, and climate change. Our programs, accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Institute of Physics, are led by world-class experts in a supportive and collaborative environment. Choosing where to study is a big decision, and we're here to share the opportunities available in studying Chemistry with us.

 

Programme details

Need a refresher of the details of your programme? Our Degree Finder provides information, including what you will study, how you will learn and career opportunities, as well as fees and funding.

 

Our Degree Programme Tables (DPTs) provide detailed information about the structure of the Chemistry programmes, including course content. The detailed programme content for 2025-26 will be available in April. Until then, you can view the 2024-25 DPTs. Please note these may be subject to change.

 

Sample Timetable

This is an example of what your timetable could look like in semester 1 of Year 1 of Medicinal and Biological Chemistry if you took Biology as your outside subject, for example. There is flexibility in the other courses you can study. You can discuss this with your academic cohort lead and student adviser. You have to do 20 credits of Chemistry 1A, 20 credits of Maths and then an optional 20 credits of electives (Biology 1A in this example). 

Monday 

9am to 10am Chemistry 1A (lecture) 

2pm to 3pm Biology 1A: Variation (lecture) 

3.30pm to 5pm Chemistry 1A (tutorial) 

 

Tuesday 

9am to 10am Biology 1A (lecture) 

12pm to 1pm Mathematics for the Natural Sciences 1A (lecture) 

2pm to 5pm Chemistry 1A (lab session) 

 

Wednesday 

9am to 10am Chemistry 1A (lecture) 

10am to 11am Mathematics for the Natural Sciences 1A (Workshop) 

2pm to 4pm Biology 1A (workshop) 

 

Thursday 

9am to 10am Chemistry 1A (lecture) 

10am to 1pm Biology 1A (practical) 

1pm to 2pm Mathematics for the Natural Sciences (lecture) 

 

Friday 

9am to 10am Chemistry 1A (lecture) 

10am to 11am Mathematics for the Natural Sciences (lecture) 

2pm to 3pm Biology 1A (lecture) 

 


 

Why study Chemistry

Our programmes at the School of Chemistry provide a robust foundation in core disciplines of chemistry and mathematics, taught by world-class experts and supported by an extensive tutorial system. These programmes are accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, partially fulfilling the academic requirements for Chartered Chem (CChem) status.

 

What you will learn

During the first two years of the Chemistry and Medicinal and Biological Chemistry programmes, you have the flexibility to select from additional science or engineering courses or courses from other university departments. In your second year, you will engage in Data-Driven Chemistry introducing computational research skills, while students in the Medicinal and Biological Chemistry programme explore specialized subjects like Biological Chemistry and Chemical Pharmacology.

The Chemical Physics programme, also jointly accredited by the Institute of Physics, integrates physics with chemistry and mathematics. Here, you'll tackle complex topics preparing you for interdisciplinary scientific challenges.

 

How you will learn

Our learning environment is lively and engaging, built to both challenge and involve you. Initially, you'll have around 20 hours of classes each week, plus another 15 hours for preparing for tutorials, writing lab reports, and studying on your own. As you progress, you'll have more hands-on learning and research projects. This gradual increase in practical experiences is designed to develop your skills, preparing you for a career in chemistry. 

Throughout your degree, you will develop your communication skills by writing detailed lab reports, creating informative posters, and delivering presentations. You'll also engage in group work, which will hone your teamwork skills and enable you to collaboratively handle complex projects. This training is essential for articulating complex scientific concepts clearly and confidently, equipping you for professional success in the scientific world.

Final year projects

Each of our degree programmes culminate in a final year project that combines your practical and theoretical knowledge, preparing you for roles in scientific research and specialised fields. 

In your final year as a BSc student, you can opt to conduct a research project within our research groups or pursue a science education project - ideal if you're interested in teaching. If you're an MChem student, options include: collaborating with our world-class research groups, joining an international partner university, or participating in a paid industrial placement. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on experience, well-prepared for a diverse array of career opportunities in chemistry and beyond. 

Location

You'll study at the King's Buildings campus, which is conveniently located just 15 minutes by bus from central Edinburgh. This campus is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including research laboratories, a library, and ample computer facilities. In Year 1, your laboratory work will begin in the modern Nucleus building, providing you with access to high-quality facilities from the start. 

 

Student Support

At Edinburgh, you benefit from a comprehensive support system that includes dedicated student advisers, academic cohort leads, a peer support network, and career services. These resources help you navigate your academic journey and prepare for life after your degree. Moreover, you'll join a diverse chemistry community supported by over 50 academic staff internationally recognised for their research contributions. 

 

Careers and Alumni

After graduation, you'll be prepared to tackle modern challenges in science, as proven by the success of our alumni. Visit our Alumni Profiles pages to explore their diverse careers learn more about the exciting roles our graduates take on and the meaningful impact they make both in and beyond the lab.

 Alumni Profiles | School of Chemistry 

 

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