By offering a thorough grounding in chemistry along with the intellectual and research skills needed for a career in teaching, this course aims to develop students with the skills to teach the next generation about the fundamental importance of chemistry.

The programme has been developed in collaboration with the University's School of Education. This School works closely with primary and secondary schools, creating a curriculum and mode of teaching that is in line with employer expectations.

As part of the degree, there may be the opportunity to undertake a teaching placement with a local school in addition to other educational experiences. Students are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and general living costs when undertaking these placements.

The course is designed to encourage a collaborative approach with students engaging with one another, academics and teachers. This can support critical reading, debate, reflection on experience, and research into topics of interest.

Placements

We use an innovative ‘end-on’ full-year industrial placement programme for all students at Stage 4 of the MChem. Students can choose to focus on research through a placement in a research group at the University or another institution, or complete a full-year placement (usually salaried £15-20k). Salaried placements are competitive and students will be expected to undertake an application process for such positions.

In addition to paying their tuition fees, students will need to cover their own travel, accommodation, and general living costs throughout their placement. There are also opportunities for overseas placements with European, American and Australian institutions through our International Intern Programme which takes place between the third and fourth year.

Students who apply to take the PGCE as chemistry teachers can receive bursaries from the government, subject to meeting qualifying criteria. Chemistry graduates may also pursue a wide range of science-related careers in sectors including energy, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and consumer and personal care products.