MChem Medicinal Chemistry

Key details

MCHEM MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY

Start Year

2023

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Master of Chemistry

UCAS course code

F151

Entry Requirements

AAB (specific subject requirements apply)

Duration (years)

Medicinal chemistry is a highly interdisciplinary field that applies the knowledge of different aspects of chemistry to develop and modify drug and diagnostic molecules. It has had, and continues to have, a tremendous impact on society, contributing significantly to increased quality of (healthy) life and lifespan. Development of drugs/diagnostics not only requires practical and theoretical skills in, for example, small molecule synthesis of drug molecules, but it also requires an understanding of drug/diagnostic targets, and how drugs/diagnostics interact with their target. Gaining this knowledge will play an important role in the development of next generation therapeutics and diagnostics.

Our Master’s course will provide the academic training you need to become a medicinal chemist. Our cutting-edge research in chemical sciences is at the heart of our teaching. The course will be delivered through lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practicals – ensuring your learning is at the forefront of scientific thought.

Making a choice between an MChem or BSc course can be difficult. If you’re unsure which course is right for you, don’t worry. You’ll be given advice before you begin studying and while you’re a student here. And, because of the common structure of our courses, you can transfer between the MChem and BSc in your first or second years.

About

This is the chemistry degree you should choose if you aspire to becoming a medicinal chemist. Our four-year integrated master’s course will give you the in-depth academic training you need to follow your chosen career path.

The course will equip you with the theoretical and practical skills in chemistry that are important for becoming a medicinal chemist. This includes: advanced methods for synthesis of small molecules; analytical techniques that are important for characterization of small molecule drugs (organic and inorganic), biomolecular targets, and drug-biomolecular interactions; chemical understanding of how and why the body modifies drug molecules; and engineering biomolecules for future therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

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.

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, characterization of these compounds by spectroscopic methods, and the study of their individual properties, with special emphasis on medicinal chemistry.

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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.

After the Course

Medicinal chemistry graduates go on to careers in a wide range of areas, including within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Many also go on to further study, while some opt for careers in teaching or outside of science, such as in finance or insurance.

Our medicinal 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. 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:

Medicinal chemist in pharmaceutical industry
Biochemist in pharmaceutical industry
Synthetic organic chemist in Contract Research Organization.
Healthcare
Academic research towards a PhD
Teacher

September 2023 opportunities. Discover more

We’re 4th for research impact!

UEA is ranked 4th overall in the Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis for research impact in Chemistry.

FIND OUT MORE >

What's included in your fees

Explore some of the benefits included as part of your UEA learning package.

FIND OUT MORE >

Course Reference Number: 7372620

Assessment for Year 1

Formative and summative assessments in various modules in year 1. These will include online quizzes and exams containing short answer questions. You will also be assessed on write-ups that you produce for laboratory experiments.

Structure

This programme will build on your existing knowledge and give you a detailed understanding of different aspects of medicinal chemistry across a broad range of specialisms.

Due to the subject’s strong practical component, we place great emphasis on laboratory skills training. This could take the form of the synthesis of new compounds, new biomolecules of potential therapeutic and diagnostic importance, the characterization of these compounds and biomolecules using spectroscopic and biomolecular characterization techniques, and the study of their properties.

Throughout your four years, our modules will help you develop transferable skills in the areas of communication, team working and problem solving. Such skills are vital to professional scientists and prized by employers.

In your first year, you will gain a broad understanding of all the major branches of chemistry, and develop practical laboratory skills, including opportunities to learn about the synthesis of small molecule drugs and techniques important for their characterisation. Transfer between medicinal chemistry and chemistry programmes is possible after the first year.

Teaching and Learning

In this year, you will gain understanding of fundamental concepts in chemistry that will form the foundation for subsequent years.

Our teaching will combine lectures, small group seminars, workshops and practical sessions. Some of your lectures and practicals may take an active approach to learning, encouraging you to interact with your fellow students within the sessions.

Independent study:

You will have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of medicinal chemistry that really interests you.

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Open Days

Assessment for Year 1

Compulsory Modules

BONDING, STRUCTURE & PERIODICITY

Code CHE-4301A

Credits 20

After an introduction to chemical bonding, atomic and molecular structure and chemical principles, this module will provide you with an introduction to the structures, properties and reactivities of molecules and ionic solids. Emphasis will be placed on the relationships between chemical bonding and the structures and properties of molecules. The lectures of this module are supported and illustrated by the bonding, structure and periodicity experiments of the first-year practical modules, Chemistry Skills A or Research Skills in Biochemistry.

PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY I

Code CHE-4202B

Credits 20

This module introduces students to the major areas of classical physical chemistry: chemical kinetics, chemical thermodynamics, and electrolyte solutions as well as spectroscopy. Chemical kinetics will consider the kinetic theory of gases and the rate of processes, in particular either in the gas phase or in solution. The appropriate theoretical basis for understanding rate measurements will be developed during the course, which will include considerations of the order of reaction, the Arrhenius equation and determination of rate constants. Thermodynamics deals with energy relationships in large assemblies, that is those systems which contain sufficient numbers of molecules for 'bulk' properties to be exhibited and which, are in a state of equilibrium. Properties discussed will include the heat content or enthalpy (H), heat capacity (Cp, Cv), internal energy (U), heat and work. The First Law of Thermodynamics will be introduced, and its significance explained. It is very important that scientists have an understanding of the behaviour of ions in solution, which includes conductivity and ionic mobility. The interaction of radiation with matter is termed spectroscopy. Three main topics will be discussed: (i) ultraviolet/visible (UV / Vis) spectroscopy, in which electrons are moved from one orbital to another orbital; (ii) infrared (vibrational) spectroscopy, a technique which provides important information on the variety of bond types that a molecule can possess; (iii) nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), which allows 'molecular skeletons' to be identified.

CHEMISTRY OF THE CARBON-BASED COMPOUNDS

Code CHE-4101B

Credits 20

Building on the ideas of atomic structure and periodicity, you will be introduced to the concepts of bonding and hybridisation, conjugation and aromaticity, the mechanistic description of organic reactions, the organic functional groups, the shapes of molecules and stereochemical issues including the concepts of enantiomers, diastereoisomers and racemates. The module also introduces the chemistry of polar multiple bonds, SN1/SN2 and E1/E2 reactions, the addition reactions of alkenes, the electrophilic substitution reactions of aromatic compounds, organic synthesis and spectroscopy including the use of IR, UV and NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry to identify the products of organic reactions.

CHEMISTRY SKILLS A

Code CHE-4002A

Credits 20

This is the first of two modules which cover core chemistry skills in the first year. In the laboratory, you will cover experimental aspects of analytical and inorganic chemistry, linked to the modules CHE-4501A and CHE-4301A. In lectures, you will develop mathematical skills relevant to the understanding of chemical concepts and you will use spreadsheets for analysing and presenting data.

CHEMISTRY SKILLS B

Code CHE-4003B

Credits 20

This is the second of two modules which cover core chemistry skills in the first year. In the laboratory, you will cover experimental aspects of physical and organic chemistry, linked to the modules CHE-4202B and CHE-4101B. In lectures, you will cover statistics as applied to experimental chemistry: error propagation in physical chemistry and physical principles through applied mathematics.

ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-4501A

Credits 20

Introducing important concepts in analytical chemistry, this module covers a range of qualitative and quantitative analytical techniques that underpin more complex instrumental analytical methodologies. Exploring these techniques, you will learn how to apply them to ‘real-life’ analytical problems.

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Open Days

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

Formative and summative assessments in various modules in year 2. These will include online quizzes and exams containing short answer questions. You will also be assessed on write-ups that you produce for laboratory experiments

Compulsory Modules

BIOPHYSICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5601A

Credits 20

This module will equip you with an understanding of the principles and techniques used in contemporary biophysical chemistry. You will learn experimental techniques for measuring thermodynamic and kinetic properties of biological molecules. You will gain firm grounding in the physical principles describing those properties and their use to provide quantitative descriptions of those properties. Using predominantly examples from protein biochemistry you will explore three major themes; i) spectroscopic properties of biomolecules, ii) thermodynamic and kinetic properties of proteins and enzymes, and, iii) methods defining biomolecule size and mass. You will benefit from putting your knowledge into practice, communicating your ideas and growing your confidence in quantitative data analysis and problem solving. During laboratory based practical work, you will develop your skills in sample preparation together with the collection and interpretation of spectroscopic data. Your participation in this module will give you the knowledge to appreciate how, and why, biophysical chemistry contributes to advances in medicine, sustainable energy solutions and healthy ageing.

INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5301B

Credits 20

In this module, you’ll study the structure, bonding and reactivity patterns of inorganic compounds. The module is a prerequisite for the 3rd level inorganic course Inorganic Compounds: Structure and Functions. You’ll cover the electronic structure, spectroscopic and magnetic properties of transition metal complexes (ligand field theory), the chemistry of main group clusters, polymers and oligomers, the structures and reactivities of main group and transition metal organometallics, and the application of spectroscopic methods (primarily NMR, MS and IR) to inorganic compounds. You’ll have laboratory classes linked to the lecture topics and so you will need to have completed either of the level 4 practical modules, Chemistry Laboratory (A) or Research Skills in Biochemistry.

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5101A

Credits 20

This course builds on Chemistry of Carbon-based Compounds (the first year organic chemistry course). You will cover four main topics. The first 'aromaticity' includes benzenoid and hetero-aromatic systems. The second major topic is the organic chemistry of carbonyl compounds. Spectroscopic characterisation of organic compounds is reviewed and the final major topic is 'stereochemistry and mechanisms'. This covers conformational aspects of acyclic and cyclic compounds. Stereoelectronic effects, Neighbouring Group Participation (NGP), Baldwin’s rules, Cram’s rule and cycloaddition reactions are then discussed.

MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5150B

Credits 20

Medicinal chemistry is a highly interdisciplinary area, and this module is designed to introduce a variety of topics in the field of medicinal chemistry. Some of the topics that will be discussed in a series of lectures include, molecular and biomolecular interactions, biomolecules: proteins and nucleic acids, phases of drug action, pharmacokinetics, proteins and receptors as drug targets, DNA as a drug target and development of antitumor agents.

INSTRUMENTAL ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-5501B

Credits 20

The module covers the theory and practical application of some key instrumental techniques for chemical analysis. Molecular spectroscopy (UV-Vis and fluorescence), chromatography and electroanalytical techniques are the important instrumental methods included. The module also includes laboratory practicals using the instrumental techniques covered during the lectures and therefore reinforcing the more theoretical materials covered. In this module the students will gain skills in sample preparation, using instrumental techniques, data analysis and interpretation, report writing, teamwork, organisation and time management.

POLYMERS AND MATERIALS

Code CHE-5350A

Credits 20

Specialist materials dominate the modern world, and it is our ability as chemists to control their properties. Understanding and controlling material properties is the central theme of this module. In this module you will learn about two key classes of material: polymers and inorganic solids. You'll gain a firm grounding in the specialist methods used to characterise these materials. This will enable you to appreciate the unique properties of these materials, and how they can be controlled. In the practical element of the module, you'll gain skills in synthesising and characterising polymers and inorganic solids. In the polymers thread, you'll begin by gaining an appreciation of the role they play in society and why they are unique. You'll then encounter methods we can use to understand the properties of polymers, and how we can control them. You'll also explore the wide range of mechanisms that can be used to make organic polymers. In the thread focussed on inorganic materials, you'll explore the ionic model for inorganic solids, before gaining an appreciation of the synthesis and characterisation methods that allow access to these materials. You'll then explore the variety of properties that solids can exhibit, including semiconduction and magnetism. This lecture-based content is complemented by the practical component of the course, where you'll gain hands-on experience in both synthesis and characterisation.

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Open Days

Important Information

Assessment for Year 3

Formative and summative assessments in various modules in year 3. These will include online quizzes and exams containing short answer questions. You will also be assessed on write-ups that you produce for laboratory experiments.

Compulsory Modules

ADVANCED LABORATORY A

Code CHE-6004A

Credits 20

This is the first of two which provide an important bridge between both 1st and 2nd year undergraduate labs (with closely scripted experiments) and with independent research. Projects will be conducted in a number of chemistry themes. You will be given a choice to select some preferences prior to the module beginning, depending on their specific course requirements and research lab capacities.

ORGANIC COMPOUNDS: SYNTHESIS AND PROPERTIES

Code CHE-6101A

Credits 20

You will cover several key topics required to plan the synthesis of organic compounds, and to understand the properties displayed by organic compounds. The first topic is on synthesis planning, strategy and analysis, supported by a study of further important oxidation and reduction reactions. The second topic is on the use of free radicals in synthesis.The third topic is on the various types of pericyclic reactions and understanding the stereochemistry displayed by an analysis of frontier orbitals. The fourth topic is the synthesis of chiral non-racemic compounds and describes the use of chiral pool compounds and methods for the amplification of chiral information, including asymmetric reductions and oxidations.

TOPICS IN ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-6151B

Credits 20

This module is to provide an awareness of new bond construction in advanced organic chemistry. It has aspects of natural product chemistry, new methodology and the associated bioactivity of natural compounds. The module will illustrate how advanced synthetic chemistry can be used to construct compounds that might find applications in the pharmaceutical industry.

INORGANIC COMPOUNDS: STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION

Code CHE-6301B

Credits 20

This module concentrates on two important themes in contemporary inorganic chemistry: (i) the role of transition metals in homogeneous catalysis; (ii) the correlation between the structures of transition metal complexes and their electronic and magnetic properties. The structure and bonding in these compounds will be discussed as well as their applications in synthesis. There will be a series of problem-solving workshops interspersed with the lectures.

Optional A Modules

(40 credits)

PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY III

Code CHE-6201A

Credits 20

The module covers a selection of advanced topics in physical chemistry including statistical thermodynamics, reaction mechanisms and theories of reaction rates, photochemistry, electrochemistry and diffraction techniques.

TOPICS IN ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-6501B

Credits 20

CHE-6501B is the third step in a progression of analytical modules. A number of more advanced and more specialised analytical techniques are covered including: techniques to determine atomic composition, approaches to materials characterisation using vibrational spectroscopy (IR and Raman - including imaging), use of mass spectrometry to assist with molecular structure determination and confirmation, introduction to some bio-analytical methods and analysis in the real world (QA/QC, SOPs, working in regulated environments). There will be a strong focus on real-world analysis and practical interpretation/use of data, rather than extensive underlying theory. Employability aspects will be emphasised throughout, as students begin to consider next destinations.

PROTEIN STRUCTURE, CHEMISTRY AND ENGINEERING

Code CHE-6601B

Credits 20

The structural basis of the function of many proteins has been elucidated and this, together with the ready availability of chemical and biochemical techniques for altering proteins in a controlled way, has led to the application of proteins in a wide variety of biological and chemical systems and processes. These include their use as industrial catalysts and medicines, in organic syntheses and in the development of new materials. This module provides an introduction to the principles underlying this rapidly expanding and commercially-relevant area of the molecular biosciences and gives insights into their applications.

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Open Days

Important Information

Assessment for Year 4

Formative and summative assessments in various modules in year 4. These will include online quizzes and exams containing short answer questions. In addition, in the final year you will be working on a research project. Your performance in this project will be assessed by a viva, presentation, and your research project report.

Compulsory Modules

YEAR-LONG RESEARCH PROJECT

Code CHE-7001Y

Credits 60

A supervised research project available only to students registered for the MChem programme.

Optional A Modules

(60 credits)

ADVANCED TOPICS IN ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I

Code CHE-7101Y

Credits 20

Organic chemistry differs from most other areas of science in that we study what we create using the power of synthesis. In this context this module on advanced organic chemistry is the study of supermolecules – catalysts and supramolecular structures – and the methods and principles required to understand how these work. The topics are related closely to the research interests of the lecturers involved, and we hope that our enthusiasm for, and specialist knowledge of, the subjects covered will create an interesting and rewarding course that extends beyond organic chemistry to several other areas of science. In the Autumn semester the topic is asymmetric synthesis and catalysis, a discipline that is increasingly utilised in organic chemistry. In Part A the principles of asymmetric catalysis will be introduced and exemplified using metal catalysis, organo catalysis and enzyme catalysis. Such is the importance of catalysis to life that this part will include an investigation into asymmetric catalytic reactions of relevance to the origins of life. In Part B we review other methods of asymmetric synthesis, such as the use of chiral auxiliaries, and the use of asymmetric methodology for the synthesis of bioactive compounds and natural products of relevance to drug discovery programmes. In the Spring semester Part C will cover how the mechanism of an organic reaction, including a catalysed reaction, may be determined. This physical organic chemistry component of the course will provide a detailed insight into techniques and principles of use in several other areas of chemical science. Finally, in Part D, supramolecular structure will be discussed, including methods of synthesis, together with the application of these molecules in areas including materials chemistry.

ADVANCED TOPICS IN INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-7301Y

Credits 20

This module is an option for all final year students on our integrated Master’s degree. It builds on previous modules to present commercially relevant cutting edge science. You will learn how to tailor homogeneous catalysis to control the properties and value of commodity polymers. You will be able to describe the applications and suggest solutions to challenges in dehydrocoupling. You will be able to design novel combinations and explain the remarkable catalytic and stoichiometric reactivity of frustrated Lewis pairs. You will spectroscopically characterise and interpret multi-nuclear NMR. You will understand the principles of metallopharmaceuticals for applications in organ transplant surgery and in treating conditions like cancer and diabetes.

ADVANCED TOPICS IN ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-7501Y

Credits 20

CHE-7501Y is the third step in a progression of analytical modules. It is available for MChem students who were unable to select CHE-6501Y previously, but who want to further their studies of analytical topics. Please note that because the module is co-timetabled with CHE-6501B, ALL teaching will take place in Semester 2. A number of more advanced and more specialised analytical techniques are covered including: Techniques to determine atomic composition Approaches to materials characterisation using vibrational spectroscopy (IR and Raman, including imaging) Use of mass spectrometry to assist with molecular structure determination and confirmation Introduction to some bio-analytical methods Analysis in the real world (QA/QC, SOPs, working in regulated environments) There will be a strong focus on real-world analysis and interpretation/use of data, rather than extensive underlying theory. Employability aspects will be emphasised throughout to assist students considering next destinations after graduation.

TOPICS IN ADVANCED BIOPHYSICAL CHEMISTRY

Code CHE-7601Y

Credits 20

You will develop your knowledge on important biophysical concepts and methods that are widely employed in Biochemistry, Biological Chemistry, Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry. There are two main areas upon which you will focus: The first being biological systems covering key areas such as the role of metal-containing proteins; biocatalysis, membrane proteins, including transport across biological membranes and modern developments in chemical biology. The second part of the module develops further your understanding of key biophysical characterisation tools used in chemical and structural biology. You will develop on the spectroscopic/structural theme covered in the B.Sc. course by providing an in depth, specialist view of selected key biophysical methods at the forefront of research. These include (i) high resolution crystallographic techniques and x-ray spectroscopic techniques (ii) magnetic resonance techniques (both advanced nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) methods); (iii) advanced optical techniques (eg MCD and Mößbauer), (iv) Computational approaches (eg molecular dynamics) for structure determination and structure-function studies as well as understanding and determining protein-protein and protein-ligand interactions.

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Important Information

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. Acceptable subjects are: Health, Healthcare Science and 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 Administration

Scottish highers

AAAAA including Chemistry

Scottish highers advanced

BBC including Chemistry

Irish leaving certificate

4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Chemistry

Access course

Not accepted

European Baccalaureate

80% overall with 70% in Chemistry

International Baccalaureate

33 points including HL 5 in Chemistry

GCSE 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.

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:

INTO University of East Anglia

International Foundation in Pharmacy, Health and Life Sciences

International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering

Important note

International Requirements

We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.

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

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.

September 2023 opportunities. Discover more

We’re 4th for research impact!

UEA is ranked 4th overall in the Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis for research impact in Chemistry.

FIND OUT MORE >

What's included in your fees

Explore some of the benefits included as part of your UEA learning package.

FIND OUT MORE >

Course Reference Number: 7372620

MChem MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY