Chemistry

Chemistry is rightly called the central science, sitting at the intersection of the physical and biological worlds and underpinning our understanding of matter, molecules and the reactions through which everything from life itself to the materials of modern technology is built. Chemists have driven some of the most transformative developments in human history, from the synthesis of medicines that have extended and improved lives to the materials science that enables everything from semiconductors to sustainable energy.

At the University of St Andrews the five-year MChem (Hons) programme teaches the fundamentals of chemistry from the composition and properties of matter through to the design and synthesis of new molecules and materials. You will explore the role of chemistry in pharmaceuticals, water treatment, energy generation and sustainable food production, understanding how the discipline interfaces with biology, physics, mathematics, medicine and geology. The course includes a year abroad, giving you experience of a different research environment and the opportunity to develop both scientific knowledge and personal independence in an international setting.

The programme runs full time and leads to an integrated master's qualification.

Chemistry graduates are in high demand across the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, materials science, environmental science, food and flavour technology, forensic science, finance and teaching. The MChem qualification positions graduates particularly well for research careers, both in industry and academia, and PhD study in chemistry or a related discipline is a well-trodden route for those who want to work at the scientific frontier. The analytical and problem-solving skills chemistry develops are transferable into a very wide range of careers, and the scientific depth of the St Andrews programme is recognised internationally.