BSc (Hons) CHEMISTRY WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR
BSC (HONS) CHEMISTRY WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR
From the materials we make to the medicines we take, chemistry shapes our relationship with the world around us. So understanding how chemicals interact at a molecular level is not only fascinating, it’s also of critical importance.
Chemistry at UEA has an excellent reputation. Our cutting-edge research in chemical sciences underpins our teaching – through lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practicals – ensuring that your learning is at the forefront of scientific thought.
If you’re interested in chemistry but don’t yet meet the academic requirements to enter a degree programme, Chemistry with a Foundation Year will give you the grounding and skills you need. And you’ll be assigned an adviser from the School of Chemistry who will guide you throughout the year.
About
The Foundation Year of our innovative course will arm you with the skills you’ll need to progress onto our Chemistry degree. Designed to fill gaps in your knowledge, it will prepare you for life as a Chemistry undergraduate. You’ll cover core modules in chemistry and mathematics, as well as biology or physics, depending on your interests.
Complete the year successfully and you’ll be accepted onto our three-year Chemistry degree programme, which will give you a solid grounding in all aspects of chemistry. In years two and three, you’ll gain advanced knowledge of chemistry and develop your practical laboratory skills. Then in your final year you’ll tailor your study to specialise in the areas that reflect your interests and career aspirations, and you’ll undertake an independent research project too.
If you’re curious about the world around you and fascinated by the way chemicals interact, this course is an ideal choice. It will give you a real understanding of chemistry’s impact on every aspect of our lives, from our health and wellbeing to the economy. And it will give you the opportunity to use your imagination to take your thinking to extremes, and then apply it.
After the Foundation Year, you could also elect to move onto our Master’s course. Making a choice between an MChem or BSc course can be difficult. If you are at all unsure which course is right for you then don’t worry: you will be given advice before you begin studying and while you’re a student here. Transferring between the two courses is straightforward during the first two years because of the common structure of our courses.

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Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.Accreditation
The BSc Chemistry degree, which you may progress on to, is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) for partially meeting the academic criteria for Chartered Chemist (CChem).
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After the Course
Once you successfully finish your Foundation Year, you’ll go straight onto one of the main degree programmes within the School of Chemistry.
Our degrees will prepare you for further study and a range of careers in chemistry and related disciplines. Beyond the physical sciences, the analytical and numerical skills you’ll develop will open doors to a wide range of jobs requiring analytical insight.
You could go on to work in the UK chemical industry, teaching, government or local authority establishments, research organisations, hospitals, or water authorities. Alternatively, you could become one of the many graduates who go on to further study with an MSc, PhD or PGCE.
The School of Chemistry works with UEA’s Careers Service to offer you support at every stage of your course, from choosing a career to applying for graduate jobs.
Career destinations
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
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Research scientist
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Healthcare
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Government
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Data analyst
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Academic
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Teacher

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Assessment for Year 1
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
Our methods include literature reviews, exams, essays, course tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Assessment for Year 2
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
Our methods include literature reviews, exams, essays, course tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Assessment for Year 3
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
Our methods include literature reviews, exams, essays, course tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Assessment for Year 4
We employ a range of assessment methods across our modules, evenly balanced between examinations and coursework.
Our methods include literature reviews, exams, essays, course tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, and seminar presentations.
Year 0
Compulsory Modules ( 40 credits)
CHE-3003B (20 Credits)
A course in chemistry intended to take you to the level required to begin a relevant degree in the Faculty of Science. The module will help you to develop an understanding of: reactions of functional groups in organic chemistry; basic thermodynamics; spectroscopic techniques; transition metal chemistry and practical laboratory skills.
CHE-3004A (20 Credits)
A module designed for you, if you are on a Science Faculty degree with a Foundation Year. You will receive an introduction to the structure and electronic configuration of the atom. You will learn how to predict the nature of bonding given the position of elements in the periodic table and therefore. You will be introduced to the chemistry of key groups of elements. You will become familiar with key measures such as the mole and the determination of concentrations. The module includes laboratory work. No prior knowledge of chemistry is assumed.
Options Range A
Students will select 40 credits from the following modules:
MTHB3001A (20 Credits)
Taught by lectures and seminars to bring students from Maths GCSE towards A-level standard, this module covers several algebraic topics including functions, polynomials and quadratic equations. Trigonometry is approached both geometrically up to Sine and Cosine Rule and as a collection of waves and other functions. The main new topic is Differential Calculus including the Product and Chain Rules. We will also introduce Integral Calculus and apply it to areas. Students should have a strong understanding of GCSE Mathematics.
MTHB3002B (20 Credits)
Following MTHB3001A (Basic Mathematics I), this module brings students up to the standard needed to begin year one of a range of degree courses. The first half covers Integral Calculus including Integration by Parts and Substitution. Trigonometric identities, polynomial expressions, partial fractions and exponential functions are explored, all with the object of integrating a wider range of functions. The second half of the module is split into two: Complex Numbers and Vectors. We will meet and use the imaginary number i (the square root of negative one), represent it on a diagram, solve equations using it and link it to trigonometry and exponential functions. Strange but true: imaginary numbers are useful in the real world. The last section is practical rather than abstract too; we will be looking at three dimensional position and movement and solving geometric problems through vector techniques.
MTHB3005A (20 Credits)
This is a course in mathematics for students who have studied Maths at GCSE level gaining a grade B/C or equivalent and/or more than two years ago. The course includes some AS level material relevant to science. This module is reserved for students on the Chemistry, Biology, Pharmacy, Environmental Science or Computing Foundation Years.
MTHB3006B (20 Credits)
This module is ideal for you if you are studying a Science Faculty degree with a Foundation Year or Computing with a Foundation Year and have completed study of the module Introductory Mathematics for Scientists. You will build on the knowledge gained during the Mathematics for Scientists introduction module and advance your skills.
Options Range B
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
BIO-3001B (20 Credits)
The topics covered will give you a basic grounding in biological processes including the fundamental characteristics of living things; basic metabolic processes; an understanding of evolution and knowledge of the levels of biological organisation with some focus given to organ systems. This module also gives you the opportunity to develop key transferable skills such as lab skills, report writing, assignment preparation, researching and evaluating evidence, giving and responding to presentations.
BIO-3002A (20 Credits)
The topics covered on the module will give you a basic grounding in biological processes including the fundamental characteristics of living things; basic metabolic processes; an understanding of evolution and knowledge of the levels of biological organisation with some focus given to organ systems. This module also gives you the opportunity to develop key transferable skills which may include lab skills, report writing, assignment preparation, researching and evaluating evidence, giving and responding to presentations.
PHY-3010B (20 Credits)
This module follows on from Introductory Physics and continues to introduce you to the fundamental principles of physics and uses them to explain a variety of physical phenomena. You will study gravitational, electric and magnetic fields, radioactivity and energy levels. There is some coursework based around the discharge of capacitors. The module finishes with you studying some aspects of thermal physics, conservation of momentum and simple harmonic motion.
PHY-3011A (20 Credits)
In this module you will begin your physics journey with units, accuracy and measurement. You will then progress through the topics of waves, light and sound, forces and dynamics, energy, materials and finish by studying aspects of electricity. The module has a piece of coursework which is based around PV cell technology.
For further years' module information please check out our BSc Chemistry.
Important Information:
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.
Entry Requirements
A Levels
CCCT Levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a C In the core of the T Level and a Pass in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable pathways: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction or Digital Production, Design and Development or Education and ChildcareBTEC
MMMScottish highers
BBCCCScottish highers advanced
DDDIrish leaving certificate
6 subjects at H4Access course
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3European Baccalaureate
60%International Baccalaureate
28 pointsGCSE offer
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSEAdditional entry requirements
A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted
We welcome applications from students with non-traditional academic backgrounds. If you have been out of study for the last three years and you do not have the entry grades for our three year degree, we will consider your educational and employment history, along with your personal statement and reference to gain a holistic view of your suitability for the course. You will still need to meet our GCSE English Language and Mathematics requirements.
If you are currently studying your level 3 qualifications, we may be able to give you a reduced grade offer based on these circumstances:
• You live in an area with low progression to higher education (we use Polar 4, quintile 1 & 2 data)
• You will be 21 years of age or over at the start of the course
• You have been in Local Authority care
• You are studying at a school which our Outreach Team are working closely with
Alternative Entry Requirements
UEA recognises that some students take a mixture of International Baccalaureate IB or International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme IBCP study rather than the full diploma, taking Higher levels in addition to A levels and/or BTEC qualifications. At UEA we do consider a combination of qualifications for entry, provided a minimum of three qualifications are taken at a higher Level. In addition some degree programmes require specific subjects at a higher level.
Important note
Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
Students for whom english is a foreign language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for Foundation year entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Please click here to see our full list.
Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
Gap year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.  We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
Intakes
This course is open to UK applicants only. The annual intake is in September each year.

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Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
See our Tuition Fees page for further information.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds.
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships; please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course related costs
View our information about Additional Course Fees.

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How to Apply
Applications need to be made via the Universities Colleges and Admissions Services (UCAS), using the UCAS Apply option.
UCAS Apply is an online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The application allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it is sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.

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