MChem Chemistry with a Year in Industry
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Master of Chemistry
- UCAS Course Code
- F104
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subject required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subject required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
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 in solving some of the greatest challenges facing humanity, such as climate change and eradicating disease.
Following the central structure of our MChem Chemistry, this course allows you to spend your third year in an industrial chemical laboratory, gaining extensive experience in a research-led work environment. Your placement will typically last 10 to 12 months, and after an initial training period you’ll be fully integrated into a research team, contributing to the day-to-day requirements of the organisation.
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. 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 exciting individual research project.
From the very beginning, you’ll be hands-on in our modern teaching laboratory. The laboratory is light, spacious, and fully equipped with a range of analytical and spectroscopic instrumentation. Later in your chemistry degree, you’ll have access to a wide range of state-of-the-art equipment such as our X-Ray and NMR suites and imaging facilities.
Our Master’s course will provide the in-depth academic training you’ll need to become a professional chemist, and the transferrable skills you’ll develop will be beneficial to a wide range of occupations, offering a breath of career opportunity.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
On this course, you’ll spend your third year working in industry, gaining experience and skills that are highly valued by employers. The placement component of this course is compulsory and can be undertaken in the UK or overseas.
You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement. Starting in your second year, you’ll start to apply to a range of companies. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, but it will also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills that you’ll require after graduation. We will, of course, offer our guidance and support whilst you’re identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by an industrial supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your industrial supervisor will be in contact during the placement to ensure that it’s progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers.
If you’re unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you’ll have the option to transfer onto the equivalent MChem degree programme without a Year in Industry.
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
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’ll require for a chemistry degree, which will prove particularly beneficial if you’ve not studied mathematics at A-level.
There will be an emphasis on practical work, and you’ll develop important analytical and problem-solving skills that will prove invaluable throughout your chemistry 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 peers.
Independent study
You’ll 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.
In your first year,there will be an emphasis on practical work from the beginning of your chemistry degree. Some of your lectures and practical activities will adopt an interactive approach to learning, encouraging you to work with your peers.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
In your first year, you’ll complete the core modules and assessment methods will include literature reviews, exams, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Structure
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’ll also choose optional modules.
This year, you’ll spend time selecting and applying for your placement position, which will commence in the summer after you’ve completed your second academic year.
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
In your second year, you’ll continue to hone your scientific skills through lectures, small group seminars, workshops and practical sessions. You’ll also be able to select optional modules.
Assessment
In your second year, you’ll have the opportunity to select optional modules and assessment methods will continue in the previous format.
Structure
You’ll spend 10 to 12 months of your third year on placement in an industrial research laboratory, either in the UK or overseas. After an initial training period, you’ll become fully integrated into the organisation’s research team.
Most placements will involve an element of individual project work, and you’ll need to produce a detailed placement report which will be assessed, together with a presentation, on your return to UEA.
You’ll also need to complete a distance-learning module, which will continue your academic development and prepare you for entry into your fourth year.
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
You’ll spend 10 to 12 months of your third year on placement in an industrial research laboratory, either in the UK or overseas. After an initial training period, you’ll become fully integrated into the organisation’s research team.
Typically, placements will entail individual project assignments, requiring you to generate a comprehensive placement report. This report, along with a presentation, will be evaluated upon your return to UEA.
Additionally, you'll be required to fulfill a distance-learning module aimed at sustaining your academic progress and readiness for your fourth-year studies.
Assessment
In your third year, you’ll participate in a 10 to 12-month placement within an industrial research laboratory, either in the UK or overseas. Following an initial training period, you’ll become fully integrated into the research team of the organisation.
These placements typically involve individual project work, including the creation of a detailed placement report. Upon your return to UEA, this report, along with a presentation, will be evaluated.
Furthermore, you’ll be expected to complete a distance-learning module designed to continue your academic development and prepare you for your final year.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll study advanced topics in chemistry and undertake an extended research project, which could be either laboratory-based or computational. You’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 to 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
During your last year of study, you'll explore advanced concepts in chemistry, and embark on an extensive research project, collaborating within a research team alongside postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers. These projects have the exciting potential to result in publication in scientific journals.
Assessment
In year four, you’ll choose from a diverse range of optional modules, and undertake an exciting research project. The emphasis on assessment will continue, balanced between examinations and coursework.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
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.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including Chemistry
Contextual offer: BBB including Chemistry
Where applicable, Science A Levels awarded by an English exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science)
Contextual offer: DDM in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science)
BTEC only accepted alongside A Level Chemistry, unless the following modules have been studied in the BTEC: Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Applications of Organic Chemistry AND Practical Chemical Analysis.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Extended Diploma: DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) including all modules listed below, OR DDD plus B in A level Chemistry.
Diploma: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) including all modules listed below plus one A Level at grade B, OR DD plus B in A Level Chemistry.
Contextual offer: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) including all modules listed below plus one A Level at grade C, OR DD plus C in A Level Chemistry.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB in A Level to include A Level Chemistry.
Contextual offer: D plus BB in A Level to include A Level Chemistry.
BTEC only accepted alongside A Level Chemistry, unless the following modules have been studied in the BTEC: Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Applications of Organic Chemistry AND Practical Chemical Analysis.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Where applicable, Science A Levels awarded by an English exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
Access to HE Diploma
Not accepted.
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Health, Healthcare Science or Science pathways.
Foundation Year options:
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.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL 5 in Chemistry
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Chemistry
Scottish Highers
AAAAA including Chemistry.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including Chemistry. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- 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.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
AAB including Chemistry
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL 5 in Chemistry
- INTO UEA
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.
- 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)
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.
-
- 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.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
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 in industry. Further details are available on our Tuition Fee website.
There may be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year in industry, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
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
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Research scientist
- Healthcare
- Government
- Data analyst
- Academic
- Teacher
Discover more on our Careers webpages.