Undergraduate study
     

Science & Environment

BSc (Hons) Chemistry

  • UCAS code: F100 BSc/Chem
  • Length: 3-4 years

2012 entry

 

Chemistry applications are everywhere in modern society. The electronics at the heart of your mobile phone, the fibre optics which bring you high-speed broadband, most of the fabrics and dyes in the clothes you wear – none of these would exist without a thorough understanding of the chemical properties of substances.

Teesside’s chemistry programme has been designed to provide a broad-based study of chemical concepts and principles. It also draws on the University's strengths in chemical engineering, biological and forensic science to produce graduates with a knowledge and skill base well suited to employment.

Teesside is home to some of the most advanced chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in the world, and the highly practical nature of our BSc (Hons) Chemistry means that you’re ready to join one of these industries.

What you study

In Years 1 and 2 you cover principles of bonding, reactivity and analysis, providing a strong foundation for the study of novel compounds and materials in your final year. You also study the real life application of physical chemistry to the process industries, helping you to understand the factors involved in the manufacture of important chemical products.

In your final year you develop your independent learning skills by investigating an area of chemistry for an extended period. You develop key skills in research, applying and creating knowledge.

In addition, the course has been designed to develop skills and attributes which prepare you for the world of work. For example, you undertake a series of intensive projects which mimic real-life situations and help you become an effective member of a team.

How you learn

You have a range of lectures, small-group tutorials and hands-on laboratory sessions. Some modules are largely student centred, you learn by carrying out independent tasks rather than attending lectures. Part of your course also involves a substantial research-based project.

Each year of full-time study consists of modules totalling 120 credits and each unit of credit corresponds to ten hours of learning and assessment; typically six or seven of these ten hours should be personal study time outside the classroom.

How you are assessed

Your course involves a range of assessments including problem-solving assignments, essays, presentations, laboratory results and record keeping, report writing, group work and examinations.

Professional placement

There is an option of a professional placement in your third year to enable you to gain valuable practical experience so enhancing your education and improving future employment prospects. Some graduates find work with the placement provider after graduation. Placements are usually in the UK although there may be opportunities overseas.

Professional accreditation

Graduates from this degree are eligible for Associate Membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry (AMRSC).

Career opportunities

The chemical industry is one of the most important contributors to the UK economy. A chemistry degree provides you with, in addition to a solid grounding in chemistry, a range of skills, such as numeracy, data handling and analysis, teamwork and problem solving, which are highly valued by employers. Graduates can seek employment in a wide range of industries and organisations, ranging from pharmaceuticals, environmental agencies, processing industries, food, manufacturing and product development, to surprising areas such as publishing and journalism, automotive and aerospace industries, IT and telecommunications, law and business, teaching, and health care.

Entry requirements

To enter Year 1, you're expected to have GCSE English (grade C or above) and good grades in chemistry at Level 3 (for example A level, BTEC ND, ACCESS, IB). We consider advanced entry directly into Year 2 if you have good grades in a Level 4 or 5 qualification (for example HNC, HND) in a related subject.

You're normally invited for an interview, when you can also see our excellent facilities and meet staff and students. You then receive an individual offer. If you can't come for an interview, a typical offer might be 280 tariff points including at least grade C in Level 3 chemistry.

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