MChem Medicinal Chemistry
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Master of Chemistry
- UCAS Course Code
- F151
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
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Why you should choose us
Of graduates go on to work and/or study within 15 months after the course
Course Overview
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 year.
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.
Study and Modules
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 characterisation 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.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
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.
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.
In your first year, you will gain understanding of fundamental concepts in chemistry that will form the foundation for subsequent years.
Assessment
Formative and summative assessments in various modules in your first year. 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
Building on fundamental understanding gained in your first year, the second year provides more advanced broad chemistry training that is complemented by in depth studies of: the chemistry associated with drug design and synthesis; biophysical properties and analytical tools used to characterize small molecule drugs and drug-target interactions; various key drug targets and their bio-molecular interactions; and discussion about the journey of drug molecules as they travel through the body.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your second year, you will continue to learn about advanced small molecule synthesis methods, while gaining knowledge of concepts in biophysical chemistry and medicinal chemistry.
Assessment
Formative and summative assessments in various modules will continue throughout your second year. 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
In your third year, the course offers further specialisation in medicinal chemistry, with a focus on developing skills in: advanced methods for synthesis of small organic and inorganic molecules; state-of-the-art protein engineering methods for designing therapeutics and diagnostics; and advanced practical skills in medicinal chemistry.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your third year, you will gain understanding of protein engineering methods for designing therapeutics and diagnostics, while advancing your knowledge and practical skills in medicinal chemistry.
Assessment
Formative and summative assessments in various modules will continue in your third year. 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
In your final year, you will undertake a major research project in medicinal chemistry, such as medicinal organic/inorganic synthesis (e.g. antibiotics/anti-cancer agents), candidate drug/diagnostic biological activity studies, and protein engineering. For this project, you’ll work in a research group alongside postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers, which will be both an enjoyable and stimulating experience that will help you further develop your research skills. What’s more, projects can lead to publication in a scientific journal. In addition, you will gain insight into state-of-the-art medicinal chemistry topics and have the option to learn about advanced analytical and biophysical techniques important for characterizing biomolecules and biomolecular interaction.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 60)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your final year, you will be gaining first-hand experience of working on challenging problems in medicinal chemistry in a research group alongside postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers.
Assessment
Formative and summative assessments in various modules will continue in your final year. These will include online quizzes and exams containing short answer questions. In addition, 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.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- AAB including Chemistry. 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. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside 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) OR DDD plus grade B at A-Level Chemistry. Specific modules required or A Level Chemistry grade B. Excludes Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level – BBB including Chemistry
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Animal Management plus B at A-level Chemistry.
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.
- Scottish Highers
- AAAAA including Chemistry
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BBC including Chemistry. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Chemistry
- Access to HE Diploma
- Not accepted.
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 including HL 5 in Chemistry
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English 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.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
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 Hub. 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.
- Deferred Entry
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.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) OR DDD plus grade B at A-Level Chemistry.
Diploma: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) plus A-Level grade B OR DDD plus grade B at A-Level Chemistry.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB to include A-Level Chemistry.
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 .
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, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
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 Science
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
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
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
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:
Employability
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.
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 (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.
Careers
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:
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Medicinal chemist in pharmaceutical industry
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Biochemist in pharmaceutical industry
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Synthetic organic chemist in Contract Research Organisation.
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Healthcare
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Teacher
Discover more on our Careers webpages.