MChem Medicinal Chemistry
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Master of Chemistry
- UCAS Course Code
- F151
- 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
Delve into the fascinating world of medicinal chemistry and learn to apply the knowledge of different aspects of chemistry to the role of drug development. Medicinal chemistry has a tremendous impact on society, contributing significantly to improving our quality of life and increasing our healthy lifespan. Our Master’s course will provide you with the academic training you’ll need to become a medicinal chemist.
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 and while you’re here, and you can transfer between the MChem and BSc in your first or second year.
At UEA, our cutting-edge research in chemical sciences is at the heart of all our teaching. This course will be delivered through lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practicals – ensuring that your learning is at the forefront of scientific thought. Our scientists are world-class experts in their field, check out the latest cancer treatment breakthrough made at UEA.
Another key benefit to our MChem course is the emphasis we place on laboratory-based teaching, and the development of practical skills. UEA offers state-of-the-art facilities for medicinal chemistry teaching. These include high-quality laboratories in the new science building that opened in 2019, and several advanced instruments required for medicinal chemistry related teaching and research.
UEA is part of the Norwich Research Park that includes John Innes Centre, Quadrum institute, and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, making it a highly desirable place for medicinal chemistry teaching and future employment opportunities.
Study and Modules
Structure
This degree programme will build on your existing knowledge and give you a detailed understanding of different aspects of medicinal 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, new biomolecules of potential therapeutic and diagnostic importance, the characterisation of these compounds and biomolecules using spectroscopic and biomolecular characterisation techniques, and the study of their properties.
Throughout your four years, our modules will help you to develop transferable skills in the areas of communication, teamwork and problem solving. Such skills are vital to professional scientists and prized by employers.
In your first year, you’ll gain a broad understanding of all the major branches of chemistry, and develop practical laboratory skills, including opportunities to learn about the synthesis of small molecule drugs and techniques important for their characterisation. Transfer between medicinal chemistry and other chemistry programmes is possible after the first 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
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 medicinal chemistry that really interests you.
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.
Assessment
Formative and summative assessments will be undertaken in various modules in your first year. These will include online quizzes and exams containing short answer questions. You’ll also be assessed on write-ups that you produce for laboratory experiments.
Structure
Building on the fundamental understanding you’ll have gained in your first year, the second year provides more advanced broad chemistry training that is complemented by in depth studies of: the chemistry associated with drug design and synthesis; biophysical properties and analytical tools used to characterise small molecule drugs and drug-target interactions; various key drug targets and their bio-molecular interactions; and discussion about the journey of drug molecules as they travel through the body.
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
In your second year, you’ll continue to learn about advanced small molecule synthesis methods, while gaining knowledge of concepts in biophysical chemistry and medicinal chemistry.
Assessment
Formative and summative assessments will continue throughout your second year in a similar format to year one.
Structure
In your third year, the course offers further specialisation in medicinal chemistry, with a focus on developing skills in: advanced methods for synthesis of small organic and inorganic molecules; state-of-the-art protein engineering methods for designing therapeutics and diagnostics; and advanced practical skills in medicinal chemistry.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A 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 third year, you’ll gain understanding of protein engineering methods for designing therapeutics and diagnostics, while advancing your knowledge and practical skills in medicinal chemistry.
Assessment
The focus on formative and summative assessments will continue, taking a similar format as previous years.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll undertake a major research project in medicinal chemistry, such as medicinal organic/inorganic synthesis (e.g. antibiotics/anti-cancer agents), candidate drug/diagnostic biological activity studies, and protein engineering. For this project, 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 to develop your research skills. In addition, you’ll gain insight into state-of-the-art medicinal chemistry topics and have the option to learn about advanced analytical and biophysical techniques that are important for characterizing biomolecules and biomolecular interaction. 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
In your final year, you’ll gain first-hand experience of working on challenging problems in medicinal chemistry in a research group alongside postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers.
Assessment
In addition to previous styles of assessment, in year four, you’ll be working on a research project. Your performance in this project will be assessed by a viva, presentation, and your research project report.
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
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of 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
Medicinal chemistry graduates go on to careers in a wide range of areas, including within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Many also go on to further study, while some opt for careers in teaching or outside of science, such as in finance or insurance.
Our medicinal 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 medicinal chemistry degree to pursue more diverse career options. These range from further research degrees (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:
- Medicinal chemist in the pharmaceutical industry
- Biochemist in the pharmaceutical industry
- Synthetic organic chemist in a Contract Research Organisation
- Healthcare
- Teacher
Discover more on our Careers webpages.