MChem Chemistry with a Year Abroad
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Master of Chemistry
- UCAS Course Code
- F103
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (subject specific requirements apply)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
From the materials we make to the medicines we take; chemistry shapes our relationship with the world around us. Understanding how chemicals interact at a molecular level is not only fascinating, but also of critical importance.
Our cutting-edge research in chemical sciences underpins our teaching – through lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practical laboratory sessions – ensuring your learning is at the forefront of scientific thought.
Making a choice between an MChem or BSc course can be difficult. If you’re unsure which course is right for you, don’t worry. You’ll be given advice before you begin studying and while you’re a student here. Our course structure is common to the BSc and MChem programmes, meaning you can transfer between the BSc and MChem in your first or second years.
What’s more, by choosing to study abroad for a year, you’ll be exposed to teaching and research at an overseas university. The year will not only expand your academic approach to the subject, it will also be a valuable and rewarding experience both socially and culturally.
Following the central structure of our MChem Chemistry, this course allows you to spend a year studying overseas. The year abroad will not only expose you to different research and teaching techniques, it will also give you the opportunity to be absorbed into university life within a different culture.
You can choose from a broad range of partner universities in North America, Europe, Australasia, or Asia, offering similar programmes to our MChem.
The Year Abroad will take place during your third year of studies, where you’ll study advanced level modules from the core subjects of physical, inorganic and organic chemistry, as well as elective modules to suit your interests, all under the guidance of the Year Abroad director or your academic adviser.
A Master’s in Chemistry is the degree you should choose if you aspire to becoming a professional chemist. Our four-year Master’s course will give you the in-depth academic training you need to follow this career path.
A key benefit to our MChem course is the emphasis we place on laboratory-based teaching, and the development of practical skills. In the final two years of your degree, you’ll tailor your study to specialise in the areas that reflect your interests and career aspirations. You’ll also undertake an individual research project in your final year, back at UEA after your Year Abroad.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
You’ll spend your third year studying overseas in a university in North America, Europe, Australasia, or Asia, where you’ll study advanced core chemistry, as well as elective modules to further your interests. And you’ll have a Year Abroad director or academic adviser to guide you throughout.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Accreditations
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) for fully meeting the academic criteria for Chartered Chemist (CChem).
Study and Modules
Structure
Our Master’s in Chemistry programme will develop your existing knowledge and give you a detailed understanding of chemistry across a broad range of specialisms.
Due to the subject’s strong practical component, we place great emphasis on laboratory skills training. This could take the form of the synthesis of new compounds, the characterisation of these compounds by spectroscopic methods, or the study of their properties.
Throughout your four years, our modules will help you develop transferable skills in the areas of communication, team working and problem solving. Such skills are vital to professional scientists and prized by employers.
In your first year of study, you’ll develop your scientific skills, building upon your existing knowledge. You’ll also study the mathematics, that you will require for a chemistry degree, which will prove particularly beneficial if you have not studied mathematics at A-level.
There will be an emphasis on practical work, and you will develop important analytical and problem-solving skills that will prove invaluable throughout your degree.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Our teaching will combine lectures, small group seminars, workshops and practical sessions. Some of your lectures and practicals may take an active approach to learning, encouraging you to interact with your fellow students within the sessions.
Independent study
You will have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of chemistry that really interests you.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
Our methods include literature reviews, exams, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Structure
Our Master’s in Chemistry programme will develop your existing knowledge and give you a detailed understanding of chemistry across a broad range of specialisms.
Due to the subject’s strong practical component, we place great emphasis on laboratory skills training. This could take the form of the synthesis of new compounds, the characterisation of these compounds by spectroscopic methods, or the study of their properties.
Throughout your four years, our modules will help you develop transferable skills in the areas of communication, team working and problem solving. Such skills are vital to professional scientists and prized by employers.
In your second year, you’ll study subjects relating to organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, developing your knowledge in these core areas and honing your practical skills. You will also select optional modules.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Our teaching will combine lectures, small group seminars, workshops and practical sessions. Some of your lectures and practicals may take an active approach to learning, encouraging you to interact with your fellow students within the sessions.
Independent study
You will have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of chemistry that really interests you.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
Our methods include literature reviews, exams, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Structure
Our Master’s in Chemistry programme will develop your existing knowledge and give you a detailed understanding of chemistry across a broad range of specialisms.
Due to the subject’s strong practical component, we place great emphasis on laboratory skills training. This could take the form of the synthesis of new compounds, the characterisation of these compounds by spectroscopic methods, or the study of their properties.
Throughout your four years, our modules will help you develop transferable skills in the areas of communication, team working and problem solving. Such skills are vital to professional scientists and prized by employers.
You’ll spend your third year studying at an overseas university. You will select a preference for placement in North America, Europe, Australasia, or Asia, and subject to availability you’ll be offered a place at one of our partner universities. Here you’ll study advanced level modules in physical, inorganic and organic chemistry, and choose elective modules to suit your interests, all under the guidance of the Year Abroad director or your academic adviser.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Our teaching will combine lectures, small group seminars, workshops and practical sessions. Some of your lectures and practicals may take an active approach to learning, encouraging you to interact with your fellow students within the sessions.
Independent study
You will have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of chemistry that really interests you.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
Our methods include literature reviews, exams, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Structure
Our Master’s in Chemistry programme will develop your existing knowledge and give you a detailed understanding of chemistry across a broad range of specialisms.
Due to the subject’s strong practical component, we place great emphasis on laboratory skills training. This could take the form of the synthesis of new compounds, the characterisation of these compounds by spectroscopic methods, or the study of their properties.
Throughout your four years, our modules will help you develop transferable skills in the areas of communication, team working and problem solving. Such skills are vital to professional scientists and prized by employers.
In your final year, you’ll study advanced topics in chemistry and undertake an extended research project, which could be eitherlaboratory-based or computationalYou’ll work in a research group alongside postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers, which will be both an enjoyable and stimulating experience that will help you further develop your research skills. What’s more, projects can lead to publication in a scientific journal.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 60)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Our teaching will combine lectures, small group seminars, workshops and practical sessions. Some of your lectures and practicals may take an active approach to learning, encouraging you to interact with your fellow students within the sessions.
Independent study
You will have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of chemistry that really interests you.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
Our methods include literature reviews, exams, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- AAB including Chemistry. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Obtain an overall Pass including an A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are: Health, Healthcare Science and Science.
- BTEC
- DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) OR DDD plus B at A-Level Chemistry. Specific modules required or A Level Chemistry grade B. Excludes Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level – BBB (including Chemistry)
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DDM in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science), with specific modules required, OR DDM plus B in A Level Chemistry.
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAAAA including Chemistry. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BBC including Chemistry. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Chemistry
- Access to HE Diploma
- Not accepted.
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 including HL 5 in Chemistry
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
• IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
• Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA
• Academic English at INTO UEA
- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) OR DDD plus B at A-Level Chemistry.
Diploma: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) plus A-Level grade B OR DDD plus grade B at A-Level Chemistry.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB to include A-Level Chemistry.
Applications of Inorganic Chemistry
Applications of Organic Chemistry
Practical Chemical Analysis
If you have not studied all of the listed modules, A Level Chemistry grade B will be required to meet the subject specific requirement.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Chemistry with a Foundation Year .
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
- International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science
- International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You are eligible for reduced fees during your year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fee website.
There will be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year abroad, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
Our chemistry degrees provide the skills that employers are looking for – high level subject knowledge combined with problem solving, IT, analytical skills, instrumentation, time management, organisation, and team and individual work.
Many of our graduates secure positions in emerging chemistry industries, such as Iceni Diagnostics (a UEA spin off company developing lateral flow test technology, including for Covid-19), and leading pharmaceutical companies (Glaxo SmithKline, AkzoNobel or Sanofi), chemical and advanced technology companies (Johnson Matthey, Dell or British Airways) with roles in research, management, product development and quality control.
Others have used their chemistry degree to pursue more diverse career options. These range from further research degrees (MSc or PhD) towards academic positions, to teaching training (PGCE) to become schoolteachers, through to careers in publishing (RSC and Wiley editors), computing (ANDigital) and even banking (Barclays), insurance (Aviva), and almost everything in between.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
-
Research scientist
-
Healthcare
-
Government
-
Data analyst
-
Academic
-
Teacher
Discover more on our Careers webpages.