Teaching methods
- The majority of this course is designed to be delivered in–person, Online methods may form part of a few modules. The style of teaching delivery includes:
- Laboratory practical sessions
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Workshops/Seminars
University Park Campus, Nottingham, UK
We're busy updating our undergraduate prospectus for the 2026/27 academic year. The information here might change, so keep an eye out for updates by the end of April 2025.
Qualification | Entry Requirements | Start Date | UCAS code | Duration | Fees |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BSc Hons | AAB-ABB | September 2026 | F100 | 3 Years full-time | £9,535* |
Qualification | Entry Requirements | Start Date | UCAS code | Duration | Fees |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BSc Hons | AAB-ABB | September 2026 | F100 | 3 Years full-time | £9,535* |
Royal Society of Chemistry
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Royal Society of Chemistry
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
6 in HL Chemistry
6.0 with no less than 5.5 in each.
As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other English language qualifications. This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English. Check our English language policies and equivalencies for further details.
For presessional English or one-year foundation courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations.
If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a Presessional English for Academic Purposes (PEAP) course. Our Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.
If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.
Check our country-specific information for guidance on qualifications from your country
Chemistry
General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies, Science and Society, Leisure Studies.
A levels
GCSEs
We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.
Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A-levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:
This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the alternative qualifications page for more information.
RQF BTEC Nationals
Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma DDD Applied Science case by case
Pearson BTEC National Diploma RQF + 1 A-Level = DD + A
Pearson BTEC National Extended Certificate RQF + 2 A-Levels- D + AB (A in Chem)
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3D30M15P0. Access course modules assessed case by case typically Distinctions in Inorganic Chemistry, Core Chemistry and Organic Chemistry.
If you don't meet our entry requirements there is the option to study the science foundation programme. You may have the opportunity to progress onto the Chemistry BSc programme, subject to your performance on the foundation programme. There is a course for UK students and one for EU/international students.
At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.
International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.
NA
NA
Chemistry
General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies, Science and Society, Leisure Studies.
6 in HL Chemistry
A levels
GCSEs
We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.
Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A-levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:
This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the alternative qualifications page for more information.
RQF BTEC Nationals
Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma DDD Applied Science case by case
Pearson BTEC National Diploma RQF + 1 A-Level = DD + A
Pearson BTEC National Extended Certificate RQF + 2 A-Levels- D + AB (A in Chem)
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3D30M15P0. Access course modules assessed case by case typically Distinctions in Inorganic Chemistry, Core Chemistry and Organic Chemistry.
We make contextual offers to students who may have experienced barriers that have restricted progress at school or college. Our standard contextual offer is usually one grade lower than the advertised entry requirements, and our enhanced contextual offer is usually two grades lower than the advertised entry requirements. To qualify for a contextual offer, you must have Home/UK fee status and meet specific criteria – check if you’re eligible.
If you don't meet our entry requirements there is the option to study the science foundation programme. You may have the opportunity to progress onto the Chemistry BSc programme, subject to your performance on the foundation programme. There is a course for UK students and one for EU/international students.
At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.
NA
NA
All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice.
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses.
Books
You should be able to access most of the books you will need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies.
Printing
Due to our commitment to sustainability, we do not print lecture notes, but these are available digitally.
Study abroad
If you study abroad, you need to consider the travel and living costs associated with your country of choice. This may include visa costs and medical insurance.
Equipment
To support your studies, the university recommends you have a suitable laptop to work on when on or off campus. If you already have a device, it is unlikely you will need a new one in the short term. If you are looking into buying a new device, we recommend you buy a Windows laptop, as it is more flexible and many software packages you will need are only compatible with Windows. Other equipment will include an examination approved calculator and a molecular modelling kit (optional).
Although you will not need a powerful computer, it is wise to choose one that will last. The University has prepared a set of recommended specifications to help you choose a suitable laptop.
If you are experiencing financial difficulties and you are struggling to manage your costs, the Hardship Funds may be able to assist you.
The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help.
International students
We offer a range of international undergraduate scholarships for high-achieving international scholars who can put their Nottingham degree to great use in their careers.
This is the UK undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 25/26. It may increase for the academic year 26/27 and we will update our information once we have received confirmation of the fee from the UK Government.
For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.
If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .
All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice.
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses.
Books
You should be able to access most of the books you will need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies.
Printing
Due to our commitment to sustainability, we do not print lecture notes, but these are available digitally.
Study abroad
If you study abroad, you need to consider the travel and living costs associated with your country of choice. This may include visa costs and medical insurance.
Equipment
To support your studies, the university recommends you have a suitable laptop to work on when on or off campus. If you already have a device, it is unlikely you will need a new one in the short term. If you are looking into buying a new device, we recommend you buy a Windows laptop, as it is more flexible and many software packages you will need are only compatible with Windows. Other equipment will include an examination approved calculator and a molecular modelling kit (optional).
Although you will not need a powerful computer, it is wise to choose one that will last. The University has prepared a set of recommended specifications to help you choose a suitable laptop.
If you are experiencing financial difficulties and you are struggling to manage your costs, the Hardship Funds may be able to assist you.
The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help.
Home students*
Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary, worth up to £1,000 a year. Full details can be found on our financial support pages.
* A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.
Chemistry plays an important role in our society. It is central to finding sustainable solutions to global problems. This includes developing new drugs and vaccines, researching clean energy resources, and feeding a growing population.
You'll be taught by experts who will feed your curiosity for this exciting subject. You may even recognise some of our staff from the popular Periodic Videos YouTube channel.
Mandatory
Year 1
Introduction to Structure, Periodicity and Coordination Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 1
Introduction to Spectroscopy, Energy and Bonding in Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 1
Introduction to Organic Molecules and their Reactivity
Mandatory
Year 1
Foundation Laboratory Work
Mandatory
Year 1
Chemistry Study Skills
Mandatory
Year 1
Calculations in Chemistry
Optional
Year 1
Introduction to Green Chemistry and Processing
Optional
Year 1
Molecules of Life
Optional
Year 1
Frontiers in Chemistry
Optional
Year 1
Mathematics for Chemistry 2
Mandatory
Year 2
General Inorganic Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 2
Principles of Analytical Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 2
Synthesis and Spectroscopy
Mandatory
Year 2
Core Laboratory Work
Mandatory
Year 2
Energy, Spectroscopy and Solid State Chemistry
Optional
Year 2
Atmospheric Chemistry
Optional
Year 2
Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Biology
Optional
Year 2
Advanced Calculus and Differential Equation Techniques
Optional
Year 2
Sustainable Chemistry
Optional
Year 2
Introduction to Python for Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Mandatory
Year 3
Catalysis, Bioinorganic and Supramolecular Chemistry
Mandatory
Year 3
Chemical Bonding and Reactivity
Mandatory
Year 3
Synthesis and Reactive Intermediates
Mandatory
Year 3
Solids, Interfaces and Surfaces
Mandatory
Year 3
BSc Chemistry Project
Optional
Year 3
Topics in Inorganic Chemistry
Optional
Year 3
Chemical Biology and Enzymes
Optional
Year 3
Structure Determination Methods
Optional
Year 3
Protein Folding and Biospectroscopy
Optional
Year 3
Contemporary Drug Discovery
The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer, but is not intended to be construed or relied on as a definitive list of what might be available in any given year. This content was last updated on Wednesday 26 March 2025. Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.
This module builds on your previous studies in chemistry and provides a firm foundation in topics including:
You’ll attend two lectures per week for this module.
In this module you will learn about the development of quantum theory and the spectroscopy of the hydrogen atom. You will examine the theories used to describe the bonding in molecules and will develop an understanding of microwave and infra-red spectroscopies.
The module also introduces you to some of the key concepts in thermodynamics including enthalpy, entropy and free energy and their application in describing equilibria and electrochemical processes. You will develop an understanding of the key concepts in reaction kinetics.
You’ll attend two lectures per week for this module.
You’ll examine the fundamental principles of organic chemistry. This will include nomenclature, bonding concepts, orbitals and the shape, stereochemistry and acid-base properties of organic molecules.
Later the module will focus on reactivity and important reactions and transformations in organic chemistry.
You’ll attend two lectures per week for this module.
This module introduces you to the essential laboratory skills that are required in inorganic, organic and physical chemistry.
You’ll spend around eight hours per week in laboratory practicals performing experiments, and collecting and analysing data.
You’ll present written reports of your experimental work that will form part of the assessment for this module.
You’ll follow this introductory module right at the start of your course. It is designed to develop your study skills so that you can work effectively at University.
The module will also introduce you to first-year undergraduate laboratory chemistry.
You’ll spend around four hours in your first week in practical sessions studying this module.
This module is for those who already with A level maths will teach you the essential mathematic skills required for chemists. You will learn how to use your maths skills to solve a variety of problems in chemistry.
There will be two hours of lectures per week with a one hour workshop.
In this module you’ll look at green chemistry in its broadest sense, covering the fundamental concepts and chemistry involved in making chemical processes cleaner and more environmentally benign.
You’ll spend one hour per week in lectures, seminars and workshops over the whole year studying this module.
You’ll learn about Nature's building blocks including the structure and functions of lipids, amino acids, carbohydrates and nucleotides. You'll also learn about the reactivity of these molecules and their biological roles through case studies.
This module will introduce you to selected topics at the forefront of current research in chemistry from a physical chemistry perspective.
Example topics include:
This module provides ancillary mathematics knowledge and skills for students majoring in chemistry-based courses.
Complex numbers are introduced and used with a study of solutions of linear second-order differential equations. Matrix algebra is developed to solve systems of equations and to study eigenvalue problems. The differential calculus of several variables is introduced. An introduction is provided to algebra of matrices and their applications in chemistry. Topics are
You’ll spend two hours per week in lectures studying topics including the synthesis, bonding and reactivity of organometallic compounds, the use of symmetry and group theory to interpret infra-red spectra and NMR spectroscopy in inorganic chemistry.
Further support is provided by tutorials every third week.
You’ll be introduced to the principles of analytical chemistry, including the principal types of instrumentation used and the statistical treatment of analytical results.
You’ll attend two lectures each week studying this module.
In this module, you’ll discuss the reactivity of, suggest synthetic routes for and interpret the spectroscopic characterisation of organic compounds including some natural products.
Topics studied include:
You’ll attend two lectures each week in this module and tutorials every third week.
This module builds on the practical, analytical and communication skills developed in the first year and introduces experiments across the range of chemistry, based on your second year theory modules.
You’ll spend around 10 hours per week in practicals for this module.
In this module you'll study the physical principles underlying chemical phenomena, with emphasis on energy, quantum mechanics and spectroscopy. You'll also be introduced to solid-state chemistry, including the structure, characterisation, energetics and the band theory of solids.
You’ll attend two hours of lectures each week in this module.
You’ll study topics such as the physical properties of the atmosphere, chemistry of ozone in the stratosphere, global warming, and analytical methods in atmospheric chemistry in two lectures each week.
The fundamental building blocks of life are essential for life as we know it but what exactly are they and how can this aid us in the development of medicinal drugs? This module will provide you with the fundamental concepts in molecular biology, medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, enabling you to understand the mode of action of anti-cancer agents, antibiotics and toxins.
You’ll study:
You’ll attend two lectures each week for this module.
You will be introduced to the differential calculus of functions and vector operators. You’ll consider the development of techniques for the solution of boundary and initial value problems for ordinary differential equations.
This module covers material related to developing a more sustainable approach to chemistry. You will learn what constitutes sustainable chemistry, the significance of new technologies such as synthetic biology, and recognise the problems in achieving sustainability.
This module aims to provide a framework for understanding the action of heterogeneous catalysts in terms of adsorption/desorption processes and for understanding catalyst promotion in terms of chemical and structural phenomenon and also describes a wide variety of homogeneous catalytic processes based on organo-transition metal chemistry.
To provide a fundamental understanding of molecular structure and of the requirements for reactivity.
To introduce modern electronic structure theory and demonstrate how it can be applied to determine properties such as molecular structure, spectroscopy and reactivity.
Use of frontier molecular orbital analysis to explain and predict stereochemical and regiochemical outcomes of pericyclic reactions (Woodward-Hoffmann rules etc).
Examples will be drawn from Diels-Alder reactions, cycloadditions [4+2] and [2+2], [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangements (eg Claisen and Cope), [2,3]-sigmatropic rearrangements (eg Wittig and Mislow-Evans).
Generation and use of reactive intermediates in synthesis (ie radicals, carbenes, nitrenes).
This course aims to teach the relationship between structure and properties of solids, structure of Solids and characterisation.
It aims to teach a general introduction to Interfaces and Surfaces.
For the project, you will put into practice methods of accessing, assessing and critically appraising the chemical literature. The module will provide experience in experimental design and methodology, the recording, analysis and reporting of physical data (both in written and verbal form).
This module covers inorganic mechanisms and the overarching fundamental principles of greener and sustainable chemistry as applied to processes, inorganic reaction mechanisms, and discussion on the theme of greener and sustainable chemistry
Students should gain a good appreciation of the applications for a range of enzymological, chemical and molecular biological techniques to probe cellular processes and catalysis at the forefront in chemical biology research.
This module represents a culmination of principles and techniques from a biophysical, molecular, biochemical and genetic perspective.
A general introduction to lasers, including laser radiation and its properties will be given.
A number of current laser spectroscopic methods will be reviewed, which allow the determination of vibrational frequencies and structures.
Examples will cover ground and excited state neutral molecules, radicals and complexes, as well as cations of these.
An introduction to modern diffraction methods will be given, involving neutrons, electrons and X-rays.
Applications will cover solids (crystalline and amorphous), liquids and gases.
Throughout, there will be extensive examples from the research literature.
This module will develop an understanding of protein structure, stability, design and methods of structural analysis. In addition you will understand the protein folding problem and experimental approaches to the analysis of protein folding kinetics and the application of site-directed mutagenesis.
You will also be expected to develop a number of spectroscopic experimental techniques to probe protein structures.
There will be two hours of lectures a week.
What influence does a chemist have in the modern drug discovery process? And how can chemists use their knowledge to aid the development of new therapeutics? In this module you will apply knowledge of how chemical structures influence drug potency, pharmacokinetics, and their safety. You will gain insight onto the developmental process of designing a drug and their action once they have reached their desired target.
You’ll study:
The academic year is divided into two semesters, and you will complete 120 credits of study per year.
Your final degree classification will be based on marks gained for your second and subsequent years of study. Year two is worth 33% with year three worth 67%.
The majority of modules are worth 10 or 20 credits. You will study modules for 120 credits each year. As a guide, one credit equates to approximately 10 hours of work including consolidation.
There are typically 8-10 one-hour lectures. In addition, you will spend 8 to 10 hours in laboratory classes per week. A typical week will also include an academic tutorial covering one of the core modules.
You will be assigned a personal tutor who will support you through your studies and help guide your personal and academic development, offering you help, encouragement and guidance.
Core modules are typically delivered by assistant professors, associate professors, or professors. Lab classes will also include PhD demonstrators and technicians.
Our graduates can find roles in the pharmaceutical, chemical, food and drink, and energy sectors. This course will develop your skills in practical and theoretical chemistry, data-analysis and problem-solving. These skills are also valuable for careers in finance, education and the media.
Many students continue their studies in chemistry or a related discipline working towards a PhD degree. Read our chemistry alumni profiles to see what careers some of our recent graduates have gone into.
Average starting salary and career progression
89.00% of undergraduates from the School of Chemistry secured employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £26,216.
HESA Graduate Outcomes (2017-2021 cohorts). The Graduate Outcomes % is calculated using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.
Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.
Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.
Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.
The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2020, High Fliers Research).
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.
University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.
57%say staff value students views and opinions about the course
Data for Chemistry (Full time) at University of Nottingham, the
84%of students say teaching staff have supported their learning well.
Data for Chemistry (Full time) at University of Nottingham, the
77%in work or doing further study 15 months after the course.
Data for Chemistry (Full time) at University of Nottingham, the
Faculty of Science
Qualification
MSci Hons
Entry requirements
AAA-AAB
UCAS code
F101
Duration
4 years full-time
Start date
Sep 2026
Faculty of Science
Qualification
BSc Hons
Entry requirements
AAB - ABB
UCAS code
FC17
Duration
3 years full-time
Start date
Sep 2026
Faculty of Science
Qualification
MSci Hons
Entry requirements
AAA-AAB at A level including chemistry at grade A
UCAS code
F105
Duration
4 Years full-time
Start date
Sep 2026
Faculty of Science
Qualification
MSci Hons
Entry requirements
AAA-AAB
UCAS code
F103
Duration
4 Years full-time
Start date
Sep 2026
Faculty of Science
Qualification
MSci Hons
Entry requirements
AAA-AAB
UCAS code
FC1R
Duration
4 years full-time
Start date
Sep 2026
Faculty of Science
Qualification
MSci Hons
Entry requirements
AAA-AAB
UCAS code
CF71
Duration
4 years full-time
Start date
Sep 2026
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Qualification
BSc Hons
Entry requirements
AAB
UCAS code
C700
Duration
3 years full-time
Start date
Sep 2026
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Qualification
MSci Hons
Entry requirements
AAB
UCAS code
C703
Duration
4 Years full-time
Start date
Sep 2026
If you’re looking for more information, please head to our help and support hub, where you can find frequently asked questions or details of how to make an enquiry.
If you’re looking for more information, please head to our help and support hub, where you can find frequently asked questions or details of how to make an enquiry.