Chemistry with a Year in Industry

Chemistry is the central science, connecting physics and mathematics with biology and the applied sciences of medicine, materials, and engineering. It is concerned with the composition, structure, and behaviour of matter and with the transformations that matter undergoes, from the reactions that power living cells to the synthesis of new materials and pharmaceuticals. A chemistry degree develops rigorous quantitative thinking, laboratory precision, and the capacity to reason from evidence across multiple levels of explanation, from atoms and molecules to bulk properties and industrial processes.

This five-year full-time degree at Imperial College London leads to a Master's level qualification and is professionally accredited, providing the academic basis for recognition as a Chartered Chemist. What makes this particular programme distinctive is that it is described as the only chemistry degree in the UK to combine both an academic year abroad and an industrial placement within a single integrated programme. You will develop your skills in core and applied chemistry to Master's level across the full programme, gaining international academic experience through the year abroad and direct exposure to professional chemistry in an industrial research or development setting through the placement year.

The combination means that you graduate with not only the deepest academic training but also a substantial practical and professional record.

You will study organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry in depth, alongside analytical methods, spectroscopy, and the computational tools that are increasingly central to chemical research and development. Laboratory work throughout the programme develops your experimental skill and your capacity to design and interpret investigations.

Graduates pursue careers in the pharmaceutical, chemical, materials, energy, and consumer goods industries, as well as in environmental science, analytical chemistry, and research. The Master's qualification and accreditation support progression into chartered status and professional recognition. Many graduates also continue to doctoral research, particularly those drawn to academic or industrial research careers.