MChem CHEMISTRY WITH A YEAR IN INDUSTRY
MCHEM CHEMISTRY WITH A YEAR IN INDUSTRY
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.
Our Master’s course will provide the academic training you need to become a professional chemist. Our cutting-edge research in chemical sciences underpins our teaching – through lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practicals – ensuring your learning is at the forefront of scientific thought.
What’s more, our Year in Industry programme will allow you to gain invaluable hands-on experience in the workplace, giving you a distinct advantage when you graduate.
About
Taught with the same academic rigour and structure as our MChem in Chemistry, in the third year of this four-year course you’ll join an industrial chemical laboratory, gaining extensive experience in a research-led work environment. Your placement will typically last 10 to 12 months, and after an initial training period you’ll be fully integrated into a research team, contributing to the day-to-day requirements of the organisation.
At the end of your placement, you’ll prepare a detailed report, together with a presentation. And during the placement you’ll undertake a distance-learning module to continue your academic development and prepare you for your final year.
This is the chemistry degree you should choose if you aspire to becoming a professional chemist and want to give yourself a head start. This four-year course will give you the in-depth academic training and hands-on experience you need to follow your chosen career path.
A key benefit to our MChem course is the emphasis we place on laboratory-based teaching, and the development of practical skills. Your lab work will include synthesis of new compounds, characterisation of these compounds by spectroscopic methods, and the study of their individual properties.
In the final year of your degree, you’ll tailor your study to specialise in the areas that reflect your interests and career aspirations. You’ll also undertake an individual research project.

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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
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) for partially meeting the academic criteria for Chartered Chemist (CChem).

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Placement Year and Study Abroad
On this course, you’ll spend your third year working in industry, gaining experience and skills that are highly valued by employers. The placement component of this course is compulsory and can be undertaken in the UK or overseas.
You will be expected to seek your own work placement. In the first two weeks of your second year, you’ll be asked to write a CV and apply to a range of companies. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, it will also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you will require after graduation. We will, of course, offer our guidance and support whilst you are identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by an industrial supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your industrial supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it is progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we cannot guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers.
If you are unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year you will have the option to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a Year in Industry.

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After the Course
What are your career options after Chemistry?
A better question might be what career options are not open to you after chemistry, as you’ll see from the huge range of careers that our graduates have followed.
Our chemistry degrees provide the skills that employers are looking for – high level subject knowledge combined with problem solving, IT, analytical skills, instrumentation, time management, organisation, and team and individual work.
UEA Chemistry has been ranked 1st for career prospects in The Guardian 2020 and again 1st for graduate prospects in the Complete University Guide 2022.
Many of our graduates secure positions in emerging chemistry industries, such as Iceni Diagnostics (a UEA spin off company developing lateral flow test technology, including for Covid-19), and leading pharmaceutical companies (Glaxo SmithKline, AkzoNobel or Sanofi), chemical and advanced technology companies (Johnson Matthey, Dell or British Airways) with roles in research, management, product development and quality control.
Others have used their chemistry degree to pursue more diverse career options. These range from further research degrees (MSc or PhD) towards academic positions, to teaching training (PGCE) to become schoolteachers, through to careers in publishing (RSC and Wiley editors), computing (ANDigital) and even banking (Barclays), insurance (Aviva), and almost everything in between.
At UEA, we have a great team to support graduates in securing excellent career starts through CareerCentral. In the School of Chemistry, our Director of Employability coordinates internal and external events and makes sure that all additional key skills training elements are present in our curriculum from year 1, allowing Chemistry graduates to present a highly competitive CV. The skills training is embedded within our modules, especially in years 3 and 4, but, in addition, all students benefit from chemistry careers drop-in sessions and 1to1 guidance, plus chemistry specific employers events and fairs.
We also encourage our students to participate in the UEA award, which is a certificate from the University, recognising a range of extracurricular activities that students can undertake while at university, to help them develop other skills to become highly employable.
The Year in Industry option of the MChem degree provides extra practical experience in an industrial setting during your degree. We have strong links with industries in the UK and abroad. For example, in 2020, our students undertook placements in companies like AstraZeneca, OxfordBioMedica, Anglia DNA, Treatt, LGC, Makevale, Dermal, Airbus and Robinson Brothers, and one of our students went to ARCNL (Advance Research centre for Nanolithography) in Amsterdam.
To complement undergraduate studies, we offer a wide range of internships during the summer break (6-12 weeks) supported by the University and different funders, for students in their second and third year of their degrees. These provide additional opportunities to experience work and develop key skills in one of the many diverse research areas being pursued in the School of Chemistry.
“During the internship I have been exposed to a range of techniques such as bacterial transformation, recombinant protein expression and SDS-PAGE, all of which I would only have read about or been briefly introduced to in my undergraduate studies. I strongly suggest that if you are focused on research that you apply for as many experience opportunities as possible and refine your CV as best you can for that first interview.”- Jack Fendley, 2nd Year intern student, working on oligomerisation of the chlamydia protein TarP for cell invasion, with Dr Tharin Blumenschein over the summer 2021, funded by a Tim Pickup UEA Internship.
Career destinations
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Research scientist
- Healthcare
- Government
- Data analyst
- Academic
- 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.
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.
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.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.
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.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.
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.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.
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
AAB including Chemistry. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.T Levels
Obtain an overall Pass including an A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Accepted subjects: Health, Healthcare Science, Science.BTEC
DDD in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science) is acceptable. Specific modules required or A Level Chemistry grade B. Excludes Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business AdministrationScottish highers
AAAAA including ChemistryScottish highers advanced
BBC including ChemistryIrish leaving certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including ChemistryAccess course
Not acceptedEuropean Baccalaureate
80% overall with 70% in ChemistryInternational Baccalaureate
33 points with HL 5 in ChemistryGCSE offer
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.Additional entry requirements
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
BTEC applicants must be studying the following modules:
Applications of Inorganic Chemistry
Applications of Organic Chemistry
Practical Chemical Analysis
If you have not studied all of the listed modules, A Level Chemistry grade B will be required to meet the subject specific requirement.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Chemistry with a Foundation Year.
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.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Sciences
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
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: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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 and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.

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Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
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. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course related costs
You are eligible for reduced fees during your year in industry. Further details are available on our Tuition Fee website.
There may be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year in industry, which will vary depending on location.
View our information about Additional Course Fees.

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How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:

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