Chemistry BSc (Hons) or MChem — 2027 entry

Our Chemistry degrees prepare you for a variety of exciting and interesting careers in science and research, pharma, healthcare, education, government, business, manufacturing and emerging areas. Through hands-on "learning by doing" you'll get access to innovative research facilities and invaluable industry placement opportunities.

6,690+ people have created a bespoke digital prospectus.

Key course information

Typical offer
BBB
Start date
September 2027
Full time
3 years
UK fees
£10,050
Overseas fees
£28,100
Subject area
Chemistry
UCAS code
F100
Campus
Stag Hill

Why choose this course?

Our accredited chemistry degrees combine core theory with the latest practical chemistry techniques. You'll explore topics including analytical, forensic and environmental chemistry, computer modelling, reactivity and instrumentation.

  • Get hands on in our Joseph Kenyon Laboratory, our main organic chemistry lab, and advance your skills in our recently refurbished analytical chemistry labs.
  • Learn from lecturers who are active researchers and whose work is used by governments, health professionals and industry.
  • Become part of a supportive, inclusive community with one of the best staff-to-student ratios in the country.
  • Choose our integrated masters pathway where you’ll spend a year conducting independent research.

Our award-winning Professional Training placements have given students work valuable experience opportunities with leading organisations such as GlaxoSmithKline, the British Geological Survey and Atomic Weapons Establishment. Our students have also placed overseas in Germany, Italy, Finland, the Netherlands, Canada and New Zealand.

We’re preparing you for the future by integrating AI into every course, building digital skills, confidence and creativity that employers value in tomorrow’s workplace.

Find out more information

Statistics

93%

93% of Surrey undergraduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026, HESA)

Accreditation and/or recognition

Royal Society of Chemistry logo

Course details

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What you will study

During the first two years of your chemistry degree, you’ll develop a broad understanding of chemistry, its methodology and some of its most intriguing applications. You’ll study a range of modules in topics such as computer modelling, materials, data analysis and visualisation alongside four fundamental core chemistry topics.

In your final year, you will have the opportunity to specialise in a range of optional modules such as polymers or medicinal chemistry. You'll also complete a research project, bringing together all the practical, analytical and presentation skills you’ve developed. 

If you choose to complete an integrated masters degree your placement year will be lab-based and research-focused while you also complete distance learning. You will experience advanced techniques in chemistry and you’ll enhance your scientific communication skills.

During your final year of both bachelor's and master's degrees, you'll be embedded in a research group, working alongside an academic to carry out independent research. Example topics include drug design, materials for pollution control, catalysis, biodegradable polymers, monitoring microplastics and investigating novel data storage devices.

Professional recognition

BSc (Hons) - Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry for partially meeting the academic criteria for Chartered Chemist (CChem).

MChem - Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry for fully meeting the academic criteria for Chartered Chemist (CChem).

Foundation year

If you don’t meet our chemistry degree entry requirements, you might still be able to apply for this degree with a Chemistry Foundation Year. This is an extra year of study to develop your skills and make it easier for you to get started at university. On successful completion of your foundation year, you’ll be ready to progress to the first year of your degree.  

To see what modules you’ll be studying, refer to the foundation tab in the 'Course structure' section.

Facilities

You’ll carry out practical work with modern equipment in our recently refurbished laboratories. Our commitment to the development of your practical skills means you’ll spend a great deal of time using these facilities.

For your final-year research project, you’ll work within our research laboratories alongside active researchers such as PhD students.

Course structure

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The academic year is divided into two semesters of 15 weeks each. Each semester consists of a period of teaching, revision/directed learning and assessment. Details on how your chemistry degree modules fit into this structure are below.

The structure of our programmes follow clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the programme specifications which include further details such as the learning outcomes.

Please note: The full module listing for the optional Professional Training placement part of your course is available in the programme specification.

Modules

Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Modules are subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.

The University operates a credit framework for all taught programmes based on a 15-credit tariff.

New for 2026 entry: At Surrey, we want you to be a future-ready graduate. That’s why all our courses will offer at least one module that integrates and teaches AI tools in discipline-specific ways. You’ll develop the digital skills that employers are looking for and get comfortable with the tech of the future.

Course options

Year 1 - BSc (Hons)

Semester 1

Compulsory

PRINCIPLES OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

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The module provides an introductory overview of the main techniques used in analytical chemistry. It provides understanding  of the fundamental principles of chemical analysis as well as the main aspects of their application. The combination of lectures and practical sessions allows the students to get familiarised with the common practices in an analytical chemistry laboratory (calibration of instrumentation, validation, analysis of quality control samples, etc.) as well to introduce them to health & safety regulations and risk assessment.

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PERIODICITY AND REACTIVITY OF THE ELEMENTS

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This module provides an introduction to Inorganic Chemistry and contains both theoretical and laboratory components. The starting point is basic quantum theory which is built upon to explain the periodic table, key trends and the reactivity of main group and d-block elements. This is underpinned by a review and extension of bonding theories.

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ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR CHEMISTS AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENTISTS PART 1

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This module introduces and develops subject-specific skills underpinning your first year of study at degree level, as well as enhancing your employability by development of transferrable skills: Mathematics: for the manipulation of physical laws, basic calculations and applications of more advanced mathematical techniques in Chemistry Computing: for the manipulation and presentation chemical and experimental data, basics of molecular modelling, responsible use of genAI Statistical skills: for presentation, analysis and significance testing of hypotheses and analytical data Independent reading, writing and presentation skills on chemically relevant information and job/placement applications These skills are essential to the study of Chemistry and allied sciences and will be built upon further in all future modules on this degree, and particularly those with a significant laboratory component.

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Optional

FUNDAMENTALS OF FORENSIC SCIENCE: FROM CRIME SCENE TO COURT

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The purpose of this module is to give students a fundamental understanding of the conceptual frameworks underpinning forensic science. In this first-year module a very wide array of evidence types are covered. Casework examples are used to give students a broad understanding of how forensic evidence is retrieved, packaged, analysed and reported in court. This module interacts with material that students are taught through analytical chemistry modules and demonstrates the application of relevant techniques to forensic casework. This module supports further learning across all chemistry programmes it features in. Particular relevance can be found in the following modules. CHE1044 (General principles of analytical chemistry) CHE2035, CHEM038, CHE3066 (analytical problem solving, instrumental techniques) CHE3055, CHEM034 (Forensic toxicology, forensic investigation) CHEM037, CHE3062 (principles of pharmacokinetics, drug processes, schedules)

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DATA ANALYSIS

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This module is intended to introduce basic data handling knowledge and practice combined with introductory programming skills (digital capabilities) to give students confidence in handling chemical data which they can apply to all modules throughout the course (resourcefulness and resilience) and will also provide a basis for future employment (not only in chemistry) where they will need these skills generally (employability). The hands-on workshop approach rather than formal lectures gives them the chance to solve set problems whilst building their confidence.

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Semester 2

Compulsory

ORGANIC STRUCTURE, REACTIVITY AND FUNCTIONAL GROUPS

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This module gives an introduction to organic chemistry based on an orbital approach to structure and bonding, then a structure and bonding approach to reactivity, followed by the application of structure, bonding and reactivity to simple functional group organic chemistry.  A practical component will teach basic organic laboratory skills and allow students real-life experience of carrying out some of the chemistry taught in the lectures. 

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PHYSICAL PROCESSES IN CHEMISTRY

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This module gives an introduction to fundamental laws that govern the behaviour of matter through an understanding of the properties of matter at molecular, atomic and subatomic level. This will in some cases build on your existing knowledge (e.g. atomic structure gained in CHE1042, or pre-university knowledge in thermodynamics), and in others introduces you to new knowledge essential for the understanding of later concepts in Physical Chemistry such as in CHE2040.

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INDUSTRIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY

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The module provides an overview of the industrial production of major chemicals at the larger scale, and their use in society. This includes aspects of chemical processes including economics, societal effects, health and safety, and engineering. The module also introduces the numerous interlinked chemical processes, both natural and anthropogenic, that take place within the Earth¿s environment. This includes coverage of the impact they may have for life on Earth along with potential solutions to current environmental issues.

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ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR CHEMISTS AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENTISTS PART 2

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This module further develops subject-specific skills underpinning your first year of study at degree level, as well as enhancing your employability by development of transferrable skills: Mathematics: for the manipulation of physical laws, basic calculations and applications of more advanced mathematical techniques in Chemistry Computing: for the manipulation and presentation chemical and experimental data, basics of molecular modelling, responsible use of genAI Independent reading, writing and presentation skills on chemically relevant information and job/placement applications These skills are essential to the study of Chemistry and allied sciences and will be built upon further in all future modules on this degree, and particularly those with a significant laboratory component.

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Module selection for Year 1 - FHEQ Level 4

Choose 1 from 2
(CHE1046 Data Analysis OR CHE1039 Fundamentals of Forensic Science from Crime scene to Court)
.

Year 2 - BSc (Hons)

Semester 1

Compulsory

ORGANIC CARBON-CARBON BOND FORMATION AND HETEROCYCLIC CHEMISTRY

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This module builds upon the basic concepts taught at FHEQ level 4 and prepares students for the advanced research-led concepts of FHEQ level 6 and, where applicable, for relevant placements. Specifically, new reactions leading to carbon–carbon bond formation are explained, while the concepts of aromatic chemistry are expanded to heteroaromatics.

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APPLIED ORGANIC SPECTROSCOPY

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This module discusses the theoretical knowledge and skills required for the interpretation of NMR, IR, Raman, MS and UV-Vis spectra

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ADVANCES IN ANALYTICAL INSTRUMENTATION

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Enhancing a knowledge and application of analytical chemistry including an awareness of the operation of modern instruments in research and industrial environments.

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MATERIALS CHEMISTRY: FUNDAMENTALS TO APPLICATION

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The students will gain understanding of the fundamental concepts behind materials involving extended inorganic and organic structures, along with their properties and applications (encompassing Sustainability and Global and Cultural Capabilities pillars). This includes an introduction to characterisation techniques that are more specific to materials chemistry (e.g. diffraction techniques, thermal analysis, mechanical testing, and characterisation of magnetic and conduction properties) compared to small molecule chemistry.

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Semester 2

Compulsory

PHASES, COLLOIDS AND ELECTRONIC TRANSITIONS

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This module builds on concepts introduced at level 4 to inform, analyse and stimulate enquiry into Intermediate topics in Physical Chemistry. The student will learn fundamental and applied aspects of phases and equilibria, spectroscopy, surfactants, colloids and emulsions and gain hands-on experience of a range of experimental techniques that reinforce the learning outcomes of the module. 

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STRUCTURE, BONDING AND REACTIONS OF INORGANIC COMPOUNDS

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This module builds on knowledge from the Inorganic Chemistry module at level 4 and expands on the principles of bonding and reactivity to include p-, d-, and f-block elements and gives students an introduction to molecular symmetry. The associated laboratory component further develops skills in the synthesis and characterisation of inorganic compounds.

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Optional

BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY AND DRUG DISCOVERY

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This module builds on general organic chemistry principles that students acquired at levels 4 and 5 in the context of biomolecules.  Students will learn the natural and synthetic chemistry of peptides, proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids and natural products from common biosynthetic pathways. This foundation will then support development of a basic understanding of drug action, on and by these molecules, and the drug discovery process.

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COMPUTER MODELLING IN CHEMISTRY

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This module is intended to further develop knowledge and practice of Molecular modelling (started in module CHE1040) and introduce the students to modern computational drug design, molecular dynamics and programming as an opportunity to gain these skills on their own but also as a precursor to the CHE3053 module in the final year where more advanced aspects of these techniques will be developed. The module also serves to help students gain skills and experience that they may want to develop further in the final year project modules (CHE3047 and CHEM029)

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FORENSIC CHEMISTRY

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The purpose of this module is to give students a fundamental understanding of forensic chemistry. Rather than concentrate on chemistry per se, the focus is on the principles of chemistry as they relate to specific evidence types, namely gunshot residue, explosives, drugs and toxicology, paint and glass. Casework examples will be used to give students a broad understanding of how data is interpreted. This module demonstrates the application of relevant techniques to forensic casework.  This module supports further learning across all chemistry programmes it features in.  Particular relevance can be found in the following modules. CHE2035, CHEM038, CHE3066 (analytical problem solving, instrumental techniques) CHE3055 (forensic toxicology, forensic investigation) CHEM034 (forensic toxicology, analysis of trace evidence) CHEM037, CHE3062 (principles of pharmacokinetics, drug processes, schedules)

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PRINCIPLES OF RADIOCHEMISTRY

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This is an optional Level-5 that provides fundamental knowledge on the Principles of Radiochemistry. It complements some of the knowledge provided in compulsory Physical chemistry and Analytical Chemistry modules for all Chemistry Programs, as well as giving some ground knowledge to students following the Medicinal Chemistry program, interested in pharmacological development and production. The module introduces students to the basic principles of radiochemistry, including nuclear stability and the nature of radioactive decay. Emphasis will be placed on methods for the measurement of radioactive isotopes together with the radiochemical separation techniques required for sample preparation. The concept of radiological dose, which forms the basis of radiological protection, will be covered in both the lectures and practical sessions.

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Module selection for Year 2 - FHEQ Level 5

Choose 2 from 4
(CHE2041 Principles of Radiochemistry, CHE2033 Forensic Chemistry, CHE2043 Computer Modelling in Chemistry OR CHE2037 Bioorganic Chemistry and Drug Discovery)

Year 3 - BSc (Hons)

Semester 1

Compulsory

ORGANIC SYNTHESIS AND SPECTROSCOPY

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This module builds on fundamental concepts introduced to students in Level 4 (CHE1041 Organic Structure, Reactivity and Functional Groups) and Level 5 (CHE 2044 Organic carbon-carbon bond formation and Heterocyclic Chemistry) organic chemistry courses and Level 5 Spectroscopy module (CHE2036 Applied Organic Spectroscopy).   This is a high level module in organic chemistry, moving from the predominantly functional group approach of Level 4 beyond the skeletal construction approach of Level 5, to deal with modern and more conceptually challenging reactions and strategies for dealing with multistep syntheses. These are the reactions that are commonly used in contemporary organic synthetic chemistry.

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ORGANOMETALLIC CHEMISTRY, MOLECULAR SYMMETRY AND INORGANIC ELECTRONICS

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The module builds upon knowledge from Inorganic modules at level 4 and 5. This is achieved by introducing aspects of inorganic chemistry that have not been previously addressed and by reviewing and expanding previous knowledge towards applications. The main topic of the module is the bonding and reactivity of Organometallic compounds and the application of Organometallic d-block compounds in homogeneous catalysis. Also introduced is the application of group theory to the prediction and analysis of vibrational spectra of compounds. This expands on previous knowledge that a student gains at level 5 concerning the fundamentals of point groups and molecular symmetry. To compliment applications of Organometallic compounds, the applications of Inorganic materials will be emphasized by detailed discussion of the operating mechanism and uses of silicon-based and molecular-based electronics.

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Optional

TOPICS IN COMPUTER MODELLING

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This module is intended to present advanced molecular modelling (building on previous modeling experience in CHE1040 and CHE2043) to give students experience with modern computational chemistry and data science applied to chemistry research. We will cover most aspects of modern computational chemistry from a practical viewpoint, where students learn by doing and not by just listening. If you are doing a computational final year project in CHE3047 or CHEM029 this module will give you the skills needed. 

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Semester 2

Compulsory

MODERN METHODS IN PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY

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This module builds on levels 4 and 5 (physical chemistry, spectroscopy, inorganic modules and maths) to inform, analyse and stimulate enquiry into Physical Chemistry research in problems of relevance to industry and the environment. It features green chemistry, catalysis, surface science, advanced spectroscopy and photochemistry.

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Optional

POLYMER CHEMISTRY, ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

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This is an optional module for students who wish to explore the vast and topical field of polymer technologies. This module builds upon the basic polymer concepts provided at Level-5 (especially CHE2038 Materials Chemistry: Fundamentals to Application). The module will provide an overview of advanced synthetic methods, complex polymer configurations and morphologies, and polymers and composite materials that are used in more advanced technologies (including multidisciplinary overlaps with engineering disciplines including aerospace and clean energy technologies).

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METHOD DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATIONS IN ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

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The purpose of this module is to give students an advanced understanding of Analytical chemistry. The student will enhance the knowledge and application of specialist topics in analytical chemistry including awareness of the operation of advanced modern instruments with particular attention to the principles, practical aspects and problem solving/application aspects of advanced atomic spectroscopy, chromatography, electrochemistry, and mass spectrometry. Case scenario examples will be used to give students a broad understanding of how data are produced and interpreted. This module demonstrates the application of relevant techniques to a wide range of application such as Environmental chemistry, geoscience, ecotoxicology, medical sciences.   This module support further learning across all chemistry programmes such as: CHE1034 (basic knowledge for Chemistry of the Environment) CHE1044, CHE2035, CHEM028 (From fundamental to advance analytical chemistry modules) CHE2033, CHE3055, CHEM034 (Forensic toxicology/investigation, analysis of trace evidence) CHEM037, CHE3062 (principles of pharmacokinetics, drug processes, schedules) 

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MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY

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The module provides well-rounded knowledge and understanding of the chemistry and molecular considerations and assays involved in drug discovery. Students who opted to study Bioorganic Chemistry and Drug Discovery at level 5 will find this module gives a deeper understanding of the medicinal chemistry aspect of drug discovery.  Through its employment of example drug discovery projects from the research areas of viruses, antibiotics, diabetes, adrenergic receptors, cancer, including nuclear medicine, nanotherapeutics and inorganic medicinal chemistry, it provides students with an appreciation of design and discovery strategies which will allow them to critically evaluate unseen medicinal chemistry projects as well as suggest new research directions and ideas for improvements.

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TOPICS IN FORENSIC SCIENCE

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The purpose of this module is to give students a detailed knowledge of specific topics within forensic investigation. In this final year module, the implications of DNA, fingerprints, toxicology, body fluids and forensic toxicology evidence are dealt with in the context of a forensic investigation. Casework examples are used to give students a broad understanding of how data is interpreted. This module demonstrates the application of relevant techniques to forensic casework and how evidence of these types is presented within the criminal justice system.   This module supports further learning across all chemistry programmes it features in. Particular relevance can be found in the following modules: CHE3055 (Forensic toxicology, forensic investigation) CHEM037, CHE3062 (principles of pharmacokinetics, drug processes, schedules)

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Semester 1 & 2

Compulsory

BSC RESEARCH PROJECT

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The project module is the culmination of your learning journey so far. Here you will be able to put into practice the theory and practical skills you have learned throughout the course. You will also be able to employ your transferrable skills in the oral examination and the dissertation. This module is intended allow final year students to put all their knowledge learned so far to use in an extended practical project. Students work in the research groups of one of the academic staff and carry out independent research leading to the production of a dissertation which is also defended by an oral examination. 

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Module selection for Year 3 - FHEQ Level 6

Choose 2 from 4
(CHE3053 Topics in Computer Modelling, CHE3055 Topics in Forensics Chemistry, CHE3062 Medicinal Chemistry OR CHE3066 Method Development and Applications in Analytical Chemistry)

Teaching and learning

Each week, you’ll spend around 25 hours in lectures, practical classes and tutorials. This provides you with the opportunity to explore topics in small group tutorials and use computer-assisted learning packages to enrich your understanding.

The transferable and mathematical skills modules will develop your oral and graphic presentation, teamwork and leadership skills.

Learning methods

  • Independent study
  • Laboratory work
  • Lectures
  • Practical sessions
  • Project work
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • AI learning

Assessment

We use a variety of methods to assess you. These include:

  • Coursework
  • Essays
  • Examinations
  • Presentations.

General course information

Contact hours

Contact hours can vary across our modules. Full details of the contact hours for each module are available from the University of Surrey's module catalogue. See the modules section for more information.

Timetable

New students will receive their personalised timetable during Welcome Week. In later semesters, at least one week before the start of the semester.

Scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week (Monday – Friday), with part-time classes normally scheduled on one or two days. Wednesday afternoons tend to be for sports and cultural activities.

View our code of practice for the scheduling of teaching and assessment (PDF) for more information.

Location

This course is based at Stag Hill campus. Stag Hill is the University's main campus and where the majority of our courses are taught. 

Career opportunities

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We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University.

93%
Employability

Of Surrey undergraduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating (Graduate Outcomes 2026, HESA)

A chemistry degree opens the door to a huge variety of potential careers, including teacher, chemist, forensic and research scientist, science writer and more. Many of our students will enter the chemical industry, often in positions that follow from successful placements.

For students pursuing academia, our programmes prepare you to continue onto an MSc, PhD, or other professional qualifications. 

Recent graduate roles

Our graduates are successful, not only in the industrial sector but also in finance, government and education. Graduates over the last few years have secured roles at companies such as:

  • Dextra Laboratories
  • Tormead School
  • Plascoat Systems
  • Battelle
  • Biointeractions
  • Defence Science and Technology Laboratory.

Some graduates have entered employment in roles such as: Analytical Chemist, Chemistry Teacher, Polymer Technologist, Research Technician, and Scientist. 

Facilities

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We've recently invested heavily in new laboratories and equipment for teaching and research. We proudly offer a wide range of advanced facilities for student and research use, including our Fluor pilot plant, analytical laboratories, NMR spectrometers, X-Ray diffractometers, and materials characterisation facilities.

Launched in 2023, our Energy Hub underpins our research in green energy including battery technology, energy storage and green hydrogen.

Learn more about the facilities you'll use for your chemistry degree at the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering.

Hear from our students

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Entry requirements

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Learn more about the qualifications we typically accept to study this course at Surrey.


Typical offer

A-level

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  • BSc (Hons):
    • BBB
    • Required subjects: chemistry and a second science subject.
  • MChem:
    • AAB
    • Required subjects: chemistry and a second science subject.
  • BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year:
    • CCC
    • Required subjects: chemistry.

A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking are not accepted. Applicants taking the Science Practical Endorsement are expected to pass.

GCSE or equivalent: English Language at grade 4 (C) and Mathematics at grade 4 (C).

BTECs

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  • BSc (Hons):
    • DDM.
  • MChem:
  • BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year:
    • MMM.

BTEC must be in a relevant subject.

GCSE or equivalent: English at grade 4 (C) and Mathematics at grade 4 (C).

Please see the alternative qualifications guidance if you are taking a mixture of BTECs and A-levels or if you are taking other qualifications types.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

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  • BSc (Hons):
    • 32
    • Required subjects: Chemistry HL5/SL6 and a second Science Subject HL5/SL6.
  • MChem:
    • 34
    • Required subjects: Chemistry HL5/SL6 and a second Science Subject
  • BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year:
    • 29
    • Required subjects: Chemistry HL4/SL6.

GCSE or equivalent: English A HL4/SL4 or English B HL5/SL6 and Mathematics (either course) HL4/SL4. 

European Baccalaureate

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  • BSc (Hons):
    • 75%
    • Required subjects: Chemistry 7.5 and a second science subject 7.5.
  • MChem:
    • 82%
    • Required subjects: Chemistry 7.5 and a second science subject 7.5.
  • BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year:

GCSE or equivalent: English Language (1/2) - 6 or English Language (3) - 7 and Mathematics - 6.

Access to HE Diploma

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  • BSc (Hons):
    • QAA recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma with 45 level 3 credits overall including 27 at Distinction and 18 credits at Merit.
    • Required subjects: Access to Higher Education modules must be in relevant subjects.
  • MChem:
    • QAA recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma with 39 Level 3 Credits at Distinction and 6 Level 3 Credits at Merit. 
    • Required subjects: Access to Higher Education modules must include appropriate Chemistry and Science material.
  • BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year:
    • ​​​QAA recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma with 45 level 3 credits overall including 21 level 3 credits at Distinction, 3 level 3 credits at Merit and 21 level 3 credits at Pass.
    • Required subjects: Access to Higher Education modules must be in relevant subjects.

GCSE or equivalent: English Language at grade 4 (C) and Mathematics at grade 4 (C) (or equivalent). 

Scottish Highers

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  • BSc (Hons):
    • ABBBB
    • Required subjects: chemistry and a second science subject.
  • MChem:
    • AAABB
    • Required subjects: chemistry and a second science subject.
  • BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year:
    • BBBCC
    • Required subjects: chemistry.

GCSE or equivalent: Scottish National 5 for English Language grade C and Mathematics grade C.

Welsh Baccalaureate

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  • BSc (Hons):
    • BBB from a combination of the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and two A-levels.
    • Required subjects: A-levels in chemistry and a second science subject.
  • MChem:
    • AAB from a combination of the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and two A-levels.
    • Required subjects: A-levels in chemistry and a second science subject.
  • BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year:
    • CCC from a combination of the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and two A-levels.
    • Required subjects: A-level in chemistry.

A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking are not accepted. Applicants taking the Science Practical Endorsement are expected to pass.

GCSE or equivalent: English Language at grade 4 (C) and Mathematics at grade 4 (C) (or equivalent).

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

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This route is only applicable to the MChem course.

Applicants taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) will receive our standard A-level offer, plus an alternate offer of one A-level grade lower, subject to achieving an A grade in the EPQ. The one grade reduction will not apply to any required subjects.

This grade reduction will not combine with other grade reduction policies, such as contextual admissions policy or In2Surrey.

T Level

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  • BSc (Hons):
    • Distinction overall, with a minimum of C in the Core Component.
    • Required subjects: science
  • MChem:
    • Not applicable.
  • BSc (Hons) with Foundation Year:
    • Pass overall, with a minimum of D in the Core Component.
    • Required subjects: science

GCSE or equivalent: English Language at grade 4 (C) and Mathematics at grade 4 (C) (or equivalent).

Country-specific qualifications

International students in the United Kingdom

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English language requirements

IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each element.

View the other English language qualifications that we accept.

If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.

International Foundation Year

If you are an international student and you don’t meet the entry requirements for this degree, we offer the International Foundation Year at the Surrey International Study Centre. Upon successful completion, you can progress to this degree course.

More information

Selection process

We normally make offers in terms of grades.

If you are a suitable candidate you will be invited to an offer holder event. During your visit to the University you can find out more about the course and meet staff and students.

Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

View our Code of practice for Recognition of Prior Credit and Prior Learning and further guidance: Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning - Guide for Applicants (PDF) for more information.

We recognise that many students enter their higher education course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of professional, vocational and community contexts.  

If this applies to you, the recognition of prior learning (RPL) process may allow you to join a course without the formal entry requirements or enter your course at a point appropriate to your previous learning and experience. There are restrictions on RPL for some courses and fees may be payable for certain claims.  

Contextual offers

Did you know eligible students receive support through their application to Surrey, which could include a grade reduction on offer?

About contextual offers

Fees and funding

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Fees for the 2027-28 academic year

Explore UKCISA’s website for more information if you are unsure whether you are a UK or overseas student. View the list of fees for all undergraduate courses.

Standard year
£10,050
Foundation year
£10,050
Professional training year
£2,010
Standard year
£28,100
Foundation year
£19,500
Professional training year
£2,010

Professional training placement year fees are approximately 20% of the full-time UK fees of the academic year in which you undertake your placement.

Payment schedule

  • Students with Tuition Fee Loan: the Student Loans Company pay fees in line with their schedule. 
  • Students without a Tuition Fee Loan: pay their fees either in full at the beginning of the programme or in two instalments as follows:
    • 50% payable 10 days after the invoice date (expected to be during October to November of each academic year).
    • 50% in January of the same academic year. 
  • The exact date(s) will be on invoices. Students on part-time programmes where fees are paid on a modular basis cannot pay fees by instalment. 
  • Sponsored students: must provide us with valid sponsorship information that covers the period of study. 

Additional costs

New students are required to purchase a lab coat, marker pen and lab book - approximately £20.

Placements

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Our award-winning Professional Training placement scheme gives you the chance to spend a year in industry, either in the UK or abroad.

We have thousands of placement providers to choose from, most of which offer pay. So, become one of our many students who have had their lives and career choices transformed.

Statistics

Placement Statistics

92%

of students who did a placement entered into graduate level employment*

80%

of placements are paid, with 60% paying between £18,000 - £30,000

48%

of our students have been offered a graduate role from their placement provider**

*Graduate Outcomes 2025, HESA

**Professional training year returners survey 2024

Chemistry placements

Students on our BSc can complete one of our award-winning Professional Training placements. There is a compulsory Industrial Research Year for students on the MChem.

Placements help you gain management and leadership skills, allowing you to become confident in problem-solving and communication. This gives you a real advantage in pursuing whatever career you choose. Many companies hosting placements offer our students employment upon graduation.

Companies who participate

Companies that participate in our scheme include:

  • AWE (Atomic Weapons Establishment)
  • British Geological Survey
  • Cefas
  • GlaxoSmithKline
  • Institute for Nuclear Research
  • Intrinsiq Materials
  • Jacobs Douwe Egberts PerkinElmer.

Placements overseas

You can also choose to take your Professional Training placement or Industrial Research Year with an organisation overseas. Students have worked at:

  • Aalto in Finland
  • Grace in Germany
  • Hills Laboratories in New Zealand
  • Institut Ruder Boskovic in Croatia
  • La Sapienza in Rome
  • LB Foster Rail Technologies in Canada
  • Netherlands Forensic Institute.

Applying for placements

Students are generally not placed by the University. But we offer support and guidance throughout the process, with access to a vacancy site of placement opportunities.

Find out more about the application process.

Two university students pictured in a modern office

Discover, develop and dive in

Find out how students at Surrey developed their skills in industry by undertaking a placement year.

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Discover, develop and dive in

Find out how students at Surrey developed their skills in industry by undertaking a placement year.

Register your interest

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Apply

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Apply for your chosen course online through UCAS, with the following course and institution codes.

Institution code S85

Course UCAS code
BSc (Hons) F100
BSc (Hons) with placement F103
BSc (Hons) with foundation year F104
BSc (Hons) with foundation year and placement F105
MChem F110

Terms and conditions

When you accept an offer to study at the University of Surrey, you will be agreeing to follow our policies and procedures, student regulations, and terms and conditions.

We provide these terms and conditions at the offer stage. You will be asked to accept these when you accept the offer made to you. You will be provided with these terms and conditions again at registration by way of reminder.

Disclaimer

This online prospectus has been published in advance of the academic year to which it applies.

Whilst we have done everything possible to ensure this information is accurate; some changes may happen between publishing and the start of the course.