Why study this course?
The course enables you to further your knowledge of chemistry with a range of core modules. You can expand your interest further by selecting from a range of optional modules. You will benefit from working on a research project within one of the diverse range of internationally recognised research groups.
Gain hands on experience
As well as working and studying under the direction of world leading chemistry staff, you will gain hands on experience of a variety of modern instrumentation including multi-nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometory (NMR), mass spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC).
Academic staff
Our staff were entered in the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE 2008) and were ranked as 4* (world-leading). These results put chemistry research at NTU at the highest level and will inevitably appeal to potential students interested in furthering their studies in chemical sciences.
Scientists from AstraZeneca and Vectura deliver some of the module content. Other guest lecturers also present their research from a variety of other companies and universities.
Contact details
Email us
Telephone: +44 (0)115 848 3242
Please note the following information for applicants
Fact file
Entry requirements: Please see the
Applying section
Starting: October and January
Course length: One year FT/two years FT + placement/two years PT
Study location: Clifton campus
Fees and funding:
Please see the fees, funding and scholarships section.
How do you study?
Terms one – two: taught modules
Term three: Research project
Modules
Organic Synthesis and Characterisation of Biologically Active Compounds - 20 Credit Points (CP)
Develop knowledge in the synthesis of relatively complex organic molecules. Topics include: retrosynthetic analysis and total synthesis of biologically important molecules; the controlled formation of C-C bonds and functional group transformations; and structure elucidation of complex molecules
Physical Properties of Solid-state and Nano-composite Materials - 20 CP
This module covers the fields of solid-state and nanocomposite materials chemistry. You’ll understand the functional roles, characteristics and synthesis of nanocomposites and inorganic materials.
Inorganic Chemistry Beyond the Molecule - 20 CP
Understand the use of the biomimetic and supramolecular approaches in materials chemistry. You’ll learn the importance of interfaces in structure regulation and recognition in the generation of new materials including the recognition and incorporation of materials into the human body.
Research Methods and Independent Study - 20 CP
This module provides an underpinning in research skills relevant to the independent study. You will be introduced to the techniques required to formulate a research project and to carry out a literature review. You will be given practice in the use of the library and learning resources including relevant IT packages.
Research Project - 120 CP
You will work on laboratory-based research and will evaluate and review the scientific literature relevant to the topic. Design and conduct experimental work, and present the findings in the form of a presentation, poster and a written thesis.
Optional modules
Chemotherapeutics - 20 CP
This module covers drug action and synthesis including the underlying methodology applied to the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. Areas include: cancer therapies, antibacterial agents and synthetic methodology.
Drug Detection, Analysis and Screening - 20 CP
Study analysis methods including IR and NMR spectroscopic techniques, GC / HPLC, related hyphenated techniques, and immunoassays. Other areas include spectroscopy, chromatography, multivariate data processing, biophysics and related disciplines to the analytical chemistry of drugs and drug containing materials.
Example of project titles
- Hydrogen storage
- Supramolecular materials
- Liquid crystals
- Organic superconductors
- Drug delivery devices
- MRI contrast agents
- Metal phosphonates
- Ionic liquids as solvents for materials synthesis
- Layered metal halide perovskites
- Peptide-mineral interactions
- Biomineralisation
- Super-hydrophobic / hydrophilic surfaces
- Carbohydrate Chemistry
- Asymmetric Synthesis of P-Chirogenic Phosphines
- Small Molecule Approaches to the Elucidation of Protein Function
- Multiplexing, Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging
- Fluorescence Microscopy
Assessment methods
You will be assessed on a variety of components:
- written exam
- oral presentation
- assignment
- poster presentation
- research project.
You will have access to a range of first-class facilities and equipment at the School of Science and Technology. Our laboratories are modern and well-equipped with:
- up-to-date scientific, electronic and computing equipment
- a modern electron microscope suite.
You will also have access to specialist facilities for:
- gas and liquid chromatography
- mass spectroscopy
- atomic absorption spectroscopy
- structure determination including powder and single crystal X-ray diffraction
- solution and solid state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR)
- infrared spectroscopy and UV-visible spectroscopy.
Rosalind Franklin Building
This new facility, opened in 2012, will provide you with access to some of the best laboratory teaching facilities for Chemistry in the UK. The large teaching laboratory space is equipped with modern IT facilities and equipment ensuring that you receive excellent training in practical laboratory techniques and modern analytical methods.
Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research Facility
We invested £2.3 million in the construction of this building in 2002. This has proven to be a worthwhile investment, as this facility supports the School's extensive biomedical research activities.
Natural Sciences Research Facility
This facility supports and enhances the School's research in physics, biosciences, chemistry, imaging, materials and sport.
Our graduates have gone on to work in a wide variety of job markets including:
- pharmaceuticals
- petrochemicals
- polymers
- food and drinks
- liquid crystals
- advance materials engineering
- defence
- teaching
- finance and sales
Many graduates choose to undertake further study and this course provides a good basis for progressing onto a PhD.
Chemistry (Professional Practice)
This course offers you the opportunity to take a one-year placement following completion of the taught modules (nine months). Study by this route will be two years full-time with a placement.
The school of Science and Technology will work closely with you to help find a placement advisor and strengthen your CV and interview techniques. During the placement year, an academic member of staff will visit at least twice to check on your progress and offer any advice. On completion of the placement year students will submit a placement report and continue back at NTU for three months during which time they will complete their research project.
Entry requirements
- UK honours degree (minimum 2.2) or equivalent in chemistry related subject including forensic science, pharmacology and pharmacy
- Applicants with relevant employment experience or other relevant qualifications will also be considered
- International students please see the English language requirements section
How to apply
Applications should be made directly to the University via the online application form.
You will need to provide documents to support your application. Please prepare all relevant academic transcripts and certificates to support your qualifications. Copies are accepted at the time of application however you need to show the originals when you arrive at the University.
Application advice
- Show in your personal statement that you have a clear plan and a purpose which clearly indicates your motivations for selecting the course and how you expect to benefit from it.
- When you submit your application please ensure it is completed fully as we will make our initial decisions based on information that you have provided.
- You need to allow two weeks for an initial decision. This may vary substantially by course, depending on what the selection process involves e.g. applications involving work submission or interviews may take longer.
Scholarships
The University offers several bursaries and scholarships. For the latest information please visit the Fees and funding section of the website.
Postgraduate open evenings
Our open events are a great opportunity to meet our postgraduate teaching staff and students, visit the University, find out about the courses we offer as well as the bursaries and funding opportunities.
Find out more and book your place.
Contact details
Email us
Telephone: +44 (0)115 848 3242
