Aims of the Programme
To provide a thorough theoretical and practical training in the fundamental principles and practices of Chemistry. We recognise the need for practising chemists to possess strong tactile and manipulative skills, and therefore we focus on the development of subject confidence and competence through 'hands-on' experience. Our novel areas of research allow us to place special emphasis on and introduce you to exciting elements like Speciality Polymers, Biopolymers, Liquid-crystals and Electro active Organic and Inorganic Materials. A research project in the final year helps develop initiative, independence of thought, self-reliance, and team-work skills and fosters the ability to reason and communicate your ideas with confidence.
Entry Information
If curriculum or timetabling restraints mean that you are unable to take a full range of A2/AS levels, you should indicate this in the Personal Statement on your UCAS form. You should also ask your Confidential Referee to mention this in his/her reference.
Specific Subject Requirements:
A2 Level: Chemistry Grade B. General Studies accepted.
GCSE: English and Mathematics grade C, together with any other specific qualification required by the other Combined Honours subject you have chosen.
Applicants offering alternative qualifications (IB, EB, Access etc.) will be considered. Mature students are encouraged to apply and will be considered on individual merit
Curriculum
First Year
- Introduction to Organic & Inorganic Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- States of matter
- Spectroscopic & Instrumental Methods
- Practical Laboratories
These elements in the first year are designed to introduce and familiarise you with the fundamentals of Organic, Inorganic and Physical Chemistry; subjects common to any university chemistry degree. You will also develop skills in modern analytical techniques and be introduce to good laboratory practice.
Second Year
- Polymer Science
- Kinetics
- Aromatic, Carbonyl and Heterocyclic Chemistry
- Spectroscopic techniques
- Thermodynamics
- Transitional Elements
- Practical Laboratories
The second year sees the introduction of new elements designed to help you develop an advanced understanding of the core subjects and build your expertise in more applied subjects, such as Polymer Science.
Sandwich Year (Optional)
This is an opportunity to receive training in an industrial or commercial setting and to acquire valuable experience for a 12-month period. It is usually paid work experience, enabling you to broaden your outlook on education and on work. The experience and skills learned are a tremendous asset to your when seeking employment. The Placement Tutor assists in finding placements and is usually the industrial visitor and supervisor.
Final Year
- Advanced Organic, Heterocyclic and Inorganic Chemistry
- Organometallics
- Electro- and Stereochemistry
- Electric properties of Polymers
- Practical & Project work
This final year sees an emphasis on mechanistic studies and techniques, further development of your knowledge and understanding of advanced chemistry and the development of research skills in a final year research project which you will undertake under the supervision of a member of academic staff.
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