TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Chemistry

Chemists tackle global challenges in health, energy, and sustainability. This course blends problem-solving, communication, and lab skills—taught by top researchers—to prepare you for diverse, impactful careers in chemistry.

Our typical offer

104 UCAS points

Top for student satisfaction

Number one in the UK for student satisfaction with teaching and for feedback in the .

Practical experience

With hands-on experience in our modern laboratories from week one, our course is designed to enhance your skills and make you workplace ready.

Connected to Industry

Experience chemistry in the real world with a placement. Many students take placements and gain employment with global industries.
 
BSc (Hons) Chemistry

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About

Chemistry is key in solving our current challenges because it studies the molecules that make up everything around us from the sand on the beach to the silicon chip that drives our smartphone. The chemistry course at Plymouth is designed to provide students with the skills and experience of modern chemical and analytical techniques that makes them so valuable to employers. Recent graduates are working in diverse fields such as environmental protection, energy and pharmaceuticals, contributing to making the world a better place.

Hayley MannersDr Hayley Manners
Lecturer in Organic Chemistry

 
 
 

This course is for you if...

You are passionate about Chemistry and want to make a difference in the world
Planet earth with arrows around
you enjoy hands-on practical experience
Science beaker over the top of an open book
you thrive in a friendly and supportive teaching environment
Three heads with hands holding them depicting community
you are keen to experience working with the latest analytical instrumentation
Science beaker with atomic structure

Details

Year 1: Ignite your chemical curiosity

From the moment you step into our labs in the first week, you'll embark on a journey of chemical discovery. Forget passive learning – dive into dynamic workshops, engaging lectures, interactive tutorials, and hands-on practical sessions that will ignite your passion for chemistry. We'll equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to not just understand, but master core chemical principles and problem-solving. You'll become adept with IT and a maestro of cutting-edge laboratory techniques. More than just academic, we'll empower you to cultivate the personal and professional skills that will make you a sought-after innovator in the scientific world. Prepare to be transformed from a student into a budding chemist, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow!
Chemistry student undertaking fieldwork in a river

Core modules

CHM1011
Practice of Chemistry 20 credits

Ignite your passion for Chemistry. Get hands-on as part of a team, be trained in practical techniques, develop your laboratory practice, and enhance your scientific communication skills. This module will support your transition to university level study whatever your background.

60% Coursework

40% Practicals

CHM1017
Inorganic Chemistry 20 credits

An exploration of atomic structure, relating the concepts of electron energy levels and atomic orbitals to real-world applications. Students will construct the periodic table, discussing its history, structure, and uncovering trends in elemental properties. Learn and apply bonding theory for simple molecules, metal complexes and crystal structures, through hands-on laboratory experimentation and analysis.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM1019
Organic Chemistry 20 credits

Join us on a voyage of molecular discovery. In a series of hands-on lab sessions, workshops, and small group tutorials, you will explore the wonder of organic chemical reactions and gain a deep understanding of the concepts underpinning them.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM1020
Physical Chemistry 20 credits

Further your ability to predict and model chemical parameters. Understand the states of matter, chemical kinetics, electrochemistry, and thermodynamics. Workshops will provide you with opportunities to investigate and ask probing questions, and lab sessions will train you in accurate observation and data collection.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM1021
Approaches to Data Analysis 20 credits

Learn how computing, maths and chemistry interweave. Enhance your IT skills and gain a thoroughly supported experience using the programming language “R” to process, analyse and present environmental chemical data sets.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM1022
ChemAnalysis: Tools of the Trade 20 credits

Enhance your analytical skills as we equip you with a foundation of fundamental techniques and delve into their theoretical concepts, working principles, and real-world applications. Using a dynamic blend of theory and hands-on exercises, this module sharpens critical thinking skills as you discover the advantages and disadvantages of each technique, empowering you to make informed decisions on your analytical endeavours.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

Year 2: Unleash your chemical potential

Building upon the foundation you've forged, you'll delve into the captivating depths of organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. This isn't just about memorising theories; it's about understanding how chemistry shapes the world around us. You'll become a master of advanced instrumentation, wielding the tools that drive scientific breakthroughs. You'll learn to tackle real-world chemical problems, building the confidence and expertise to lead groundbreaking projects. More than just a student, you'll become a collaborative problem-solver, honing the teamwork skills essential for success in any scientific environment. You'll start designing your own future, preparing to take the next step towards your professional dreams.
Chemistry video screenshot

Core modules

CHM2011
Inorganic Chemistry 20 credits

Develop an in-depth understanding of bonding in transition metal complexes. Apply ligand field theory to explain a diverse array of magnetic and electronic properties. Through an enhanced understanding of inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, you will begin to rationalise the complexity of everyday natural processes and discover their beauty.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM2012
Organic Chemistry 20 credits

Discover reaction pathways and understand how molecules rearrange themselves during a reaction. Learn the importance of the carbonyl (C=O) group in organic synthesis reactions. Use powerful spectroscopy techniques to identify organic molecules and their formulation. Enjoy plenty of hands-on, lab-based work on this module.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM2013
Physical Chemistry 20 credits

Benefit from a series of interactive workshops and practical lab sessions which will explore how molecules behave quantum mechanically, thermodynamically, statistically, and electrochemically.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM2017
The Analytical Toolbox 20 credits

Can you trust your data? Explore the importance of obtaining representative and reliable data using a series of case studies to apply fundamental theoretical concepts. During workshops, we will unpick robust approaches to sample collection, processing, and analysis. This will prepare you for your final year project and your future career. 100% coursework assessed.

100% Coursework

CHM2018
Practical Environmental Chemistry 20 credits

Enjoy an entirely practical-based module. We will take you into the field to collect samples and put into practice theoretical concepts you’ve already mastered. Gain experience using a range of modern instrumentation to gather large volumes of high-quality environmental data. 100% coursework assessed.

100% Coursework

GEES2000
Placement Preparation 0 credits

This module explores the role of placements, work experience and volunteering for enhancing employability whilst at university and as a future graduate. It considers placement options (types, durations) and supports students in developing applications and preparing for interviews.

100% Assessments

CHM2019
Career Catalyst: Pathways to Professional Success 20 credits

This module equips you with essential professional and research skills for study and career success. Develop expertise in teamwork, communication, and time management. Master critical analysis, project planning, and quality systems. Enhance your employability through report writing, presentations, literature evaluation, risk assessment, COSHH, and quality management - preparing you for excellence in academia or industry.

100% Coursework

Optional placement year

Enrich your course-based learning by undertaking a year in industry, putting your learning into practice in real-world situations, or use a placement to support your chemistry research project.
Chemistry permeates many aspects of business and society and, as a result, our students have secured placements in diverse companies and organisation, both in the UK and further afield. 
Examples of previous placements include:
GlaxoSmithKline; Diageo R&D, Scotland; University of Rennes, France; CSIRO, Perth, Australia; Eden Project, Cornwall; Plymouth Marine Laboratory; University fo Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Shepherd University, USA.
Katrina zalokoski and Tantoo Fox

Core modules

GEES3000
Placement 0 credits

This module is a placement position, where a student undertakes a programme of work within a host company or organisation. The placement occurs within a yearlong period, meeting minimum duration requirements. Students experience applying their degree, experience professional practice, develop enhanced subject-related knowledge and skills, and undergo personal-professional development.

100% Coursework

Final Year: Become a chemical innovator

This is your year to shine! You'll transcend the boundaries of traditional learning, exploring contemporary chemical issues at an advanced level. This isn't just about studying chemistry; it's about living it. You'll refine your practical skills and master project management as you plan and execute an exciting research project with a chemical specialist. You'll wield the latest instrumentation, pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and paving your way for a successful career. And for those seeking real-world experiences, an exciting work-based learning placement in the industry awaits. This is your chance to become the chemical innovator you were meant to be, leaving your mark on the world of science!
Chemistry students in a laboratory

Core modules

CHM3014
Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 20 credits

Study a selection of advanced inorganic chemistry topics related to current cutting-edge research areas (e.g. modern catalysis, materials chemistry and bioinorganic chemistry). Apply your knowledge, new skills and understanding to plan and deliver laboratory-based investigations and theoretical problem solving related to these research areas.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM3015
Advanced Organic Chemistry 20 credits

How does organic chemistry work in our daily lives? What reactions go on in our bodies and how can we use this understanding to design effective medicines? What are the environmental effects of the organic molecules, such as pharmaceuticals, we make? Explore these questions in detail and unearth the fascinating world of enzyme chemistry and other essential molecules of life, such as steroids and terpenoids.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM3016
Advanced Physical Chemistry 20 credits

Advanced theoretical and practical concepts in physical chemistry and materials characterisation techniques.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

CHM3020
Frontiers in Analytical Science 20 credits

Learn how to use modern and industrially relevant instrumentation, with guidance from expert staff. Workshops will allow you to explore the complimentary theory and look at the instrumentation of the future. This is a hands-on module, designed to give you the practical experience that employers are looking for.

100% Coursework

CHM3018
Advanced Research Project 40 credits

A research project, normally involving laboratory work, but which may also include fieldwork, on a topic relevant to the degree programme. Both independent research and collaborative team-work is linked to the development of skills appropriate to the management of the project and entry and success in the professional workplace.

80% Coursework

20% Practicals

 
 
 

Optional pathways

Whether you're not quite ready to take on the full BSc (Hons) degree or you're looking for a course with an environmental flavour, we have a course for you.
  • the professional body representing chemistry in the UK.

Course-specific academic regulations

This course has unique rules relating to:

  • Passing a module
View the full regulations for this course

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

 

Experience

 

The course is very hands-on and laboratory based which gave me the experience that was necessary to thrive in industry.

I gained extremely valuable skills in a wide range of instruments and equipment that undergraduates sometimes don't get to work with. This really enabled me to integrate easily into an experienced team in the workplace.
Katrina, Analytical Development Scientist at Catalent
Katrina zalokoski
 
 
 
 

A progressive learning environment

At Plymouth, you’ll work with cutting-edge analytical instrumentation from day one. 
As a globally recognised centre for environmental chemical analysis, we offer hands-on access to industry-grade equipment in three ISO 9001-certified laboratories. These high-spec labs aren’t just impressive, they’re where you’ll build the skills that set you apart.
Technician working in a chemistry lab
 
 

Industry placement opportunities

Our degree offers the flexibility to undertake a year in industry – this can be in the UK or further afield. These opportunities provide invaluable real-world exposure, helping you build practical skills and boost your employability.
In your final year, you can immerse yourself in the real-world applications of chemistry through a professional placement, a work-based research project, or by collaborating with PhD and postdoctoral researchers in our cutting-edge laboratories.

I am both a better student and scientist due to all my experiences at GSK, and my lab work is at a much higher level. Being surrounded by colleagues with so much experience and working side by side withe them means it is impossible not to learn and grow.

William took part in a placement at GlakoSmithKline

I undertook a placement with Imerys Minerals based in Par, Cornwall. I worked within the Carbonates division and completed a research project looking aat the use of treated calcium carbonate in breathable film. I really enjoyed the independence of choosing where to take my project, and the challenges of working on a far larger scale than I had previously experienced.

Emily, BSc Chemistry graduate
 
 
 
 
 
 

Learn from experts

With a small cohort of between 50 and 60 students, you’ll be able to form a close working relationship with your academic staff. They are all professional chemists and Members or Fellows of the Royal Society of Chemistry and are always on hand to provide guidance and advice. To ensure we are constantly improving our teaching methods, you’ll be encouraged to have a say in how the course is run. 
We have developed the course to make use of the latest teaching methods, materials and technology. We regularly work with scientists from all over the world, visiting other research centres and hosting international visits from other researchers. 
Dr Hayley Manners Lecturer in Organic Chemistry


Lecturer in Organic Chemistry

Dr Roy Lowry Associate Professor (Teaching Fellow)


Associate Professor (Teaching Fellow)

Dr Lee Durndell Associate Professor in Clean Energy Transitions


Associate Professor in Clean Energy Transitions

Show all
Dr Roy Lowry , Associate Professor of Chemistry, runs a YouTube channel designed to help teachers and students get to grips with the important concepts in chemistry. 
Here is Roy explaining 'The Peculiar Atom'
5u
 
 
 

Biogeochemistry Research Centre

Researching the environmental behaviour, fate and impact of nutrients, metals and pharmaceuticals in terrestrial, atmospheric and aquatic systems.
The Biogeochemistry Research Centre comprises expert researchers and instrumentation, with acknowledged international leaders in organic geochemistry and environmental analytical chemistry and a strong focus on marine science and current and past ecosystems and climates.
Scientists working with a University of Plymouth team on sea ice in the Arctic (credit: Simon Belt/University of Plymouth)
 
 
 

Do more of what you love – Join ChemSoc

The Chemistry Society is open to everyone, no matter your subject, and is a fantastic way to build friendships, explore shared interests and create lasting memories through a range of social events and activities.
"It's the best opportunity to get to know your peers outside of the classroom. Staff often attend the pub quiz to test their general knowledge against the students! The standout events are the boat trip, Xmas meal. pH 14, treasure hunt and BBQ"
ChemSoc event
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
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Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Why I chose chemistry at Plymouth

“My degree really prepared me for my job in industry that I got straight after university because I was ready for the more practical aspect of it... If you want hands-on experience and to know what it's like in industry, then the University of Plymouth is for you.”
Watch Alex's video on her experience studying chemistry at Plymouth "
 
 

What career path will you choose?

The skills you learn during your degree make you very attractive to employers across a range of sectors. Although you could use your chemistry skills directly, in areas such as research and development within the pharmaceutical industry or in other laboratory-based analytical roles (for example within the brewing or food industries), many of our graduates choose to move into multi-disciplinary teams across the science, engineering, healthcare, environmental and technology sectors.
You could use your graduate-level skills in occupational areas as diverse as marketing, scientific writing, legal careers, IT, administration or finance. There may be opportunities to travel as many organisations, particularly those in the pharmaceutical industry, are global. A significant percentage of our graduates go on to postgraduate study, including masters and PhD positions, which can be a way of specialising and gaining valuable research skills. Teaching (both primary and secondary) is another option open to you.

  • ]100% of our chemistry graduates are in work or further study

  • @95% of chemistry graduates in highly skilled work said their degree was a formal requirement or gave them an advantage

  • ĂŠ88% of our chemistry graduates agree that their current activity is meaningful

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
ÂŁ9,535 per year
Part-time study
ÂŁ795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
ÂŁ1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
ÂŁ1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
ÂŁ1,905
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
ÂŁ1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ19,200 per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year  completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
104 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
English and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above.

A level
A typical offer will be 104 points from a minimum of three A levels to include at least a C in Chemistry.

BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DMM – science related including chemistry units. 
BTEC National Diploma modules: If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

Access courses
Pass an Access to HE Diploma with 33 level 3 credits at merit and/or distinction, which must include 15 level 3 credits in chemistry with merit. The remaining units should come from science-related units. Suitable Diplomas might include science/combined studies/natural sciences/nursing.

T level
Merit: Science pathway, which must include Laboratory Sciences as the occupational specialism.

International Baccalaureate
26–27 overall to include grade 4 at higher level chemistry. 

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
F100
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth

    • Other routes into this course

    The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

    BSc (Hons) Chemistry with Foundation Year

    Interested in chemistry but don’t have the qualifications to apply for a degree? This four year degree includes a foundation year, designed to help you build the skills and knowledge required to progress onto our BSc (Hons) Chemistry degree.

     

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    104 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    F100
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth

    Other routes to this course

    If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) . 
     
     
     
     

    Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
     
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