Chemistry, Pharmacology and Drug Discovery at UEA
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Find out moreMSc Advanced Organic Chemistry
Key Details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Master of Science
- Course Length
- 1 year
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
Other Start Dates
Other Start Dates
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Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Train to be at the forefront of organic chemistry and be ready for a career in industry or for PhD. Organic chemistry, and its interdisciplinary overlap across catalysis, advanced materials science, biochemistry and medicinal chemistry, drives innovation across many diverse areas of the science and technology industry - from forensics to food, pharmaceuticals to energy and sustainability. Career prospects in chemistry, and in organic chemistry especially, are excellent. UEA is 1st in the UK for graduate prospects (2025 Guardian).
Advanced level training through our MSc Advanced Organic Chemistry degree will broaden your organic chemistry knowledge and, importantly, will give you the experimental research experience that is highly valued by both employers and for PhD research. You'll study subjects such as synthesis, stereochemistry, medicinal chemistry and natural products, catalysis, organometallics, and spectroscopy through advanced lectures and seminars, be trained in advanced synthesis techniques for research, and perform a substantial original research project.
You'll be embedded in the research culture of the school (and the wider faculty of science) throughout, learning from experienced supervisors and researchers. Your original work will contribute to new knowledge and tackle current research problems and challenges, publishing your work and driving innovation and enterprise where possible.
You’ll graduate with high-level specialised skills and knowledge in organic chemistry, ready to embark on a rewarding career in the industry or progress to PhD-level study.
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Study and Modules
Structure
During this course, you'll take general and advanced-level lecture courses. We specifically select subject areas to enhance your training on techniques and knowledge that are in high demand in the medicinal/pharmaceutical, agrochemical, advanced technology, specialty, and fine organic chemicals industries.
You'll study subjects such as synthesis, stereochemistry, medicinal chemistry and natural products, catalysis, organometallics, and spectroscopy through advanced lectures and seminars, each assessed by short answer coursework (problem solving) exercises.
There is a large laboratory component of the course, which runs throughout the working year. You’ll start with a programme of advanced laboratory exercises and experiments designed to provide realistic training in experimental chemistry by building on basic preparative skills.
Following this, you’ll work on a research project, which will be assessed through a written dissertation and oral presentation. Some examples of previous dissertation titles include:
- Gold catalysed syntheses of complex heterocyclic systems.
- Fluorescent Labelling of Nanobody Fragments for Ultrafast Detection of Viral Particles.
- Extending the utility of palladium in cross-coupling reactions.
- Allylic amine kinetic resolution.
- New organic materials based on phthalocyanines and porphyrins.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
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
You’ll learn from experienced lecturers and research group leaders alongside students studying integrated Master’s courses and postgraduate researchers in organic chemistry.
During your laboratory training, you’ll benefit from direct supervision from experienced researchers and faculty supervisors. Your supervisors will also lead your seminars and direct the research project (dissertation) element of your course and independent study.
Alongside your formal teaching, you’ll join an organic chemistry research group led by experienced supervisors. This will give you the chance to develop your research training and fully integrate into the graduate student community. You’ll also have frequent one-to-one meetings with your supervisor.
Assessment
A key part of the assessment for this course will be your original research project. You’ll get support throughout your research from an experienced supervisor, who will also guide you in preparing your final dissertation and presentation.
Alongside this, you’ll hand in periodic coursework to help us assess your understanding of lecture material and write short reports to help us assess your laboratory training.
You’ll get written feedback on your work as well as direct feedback sessions with your faculty leader to give you the chance to ask questions and agree on areas to focus on.
Employability
After the Course
You’ll graduate with all the skills you need to start an exciting career in the chemical industry – or you may choose to take your studies even further with a PhD in organic chemistry.
We’re proud of our past graduates’ superb record of achievement – with careers in a wide range of industrial and academic positions.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Chemical industry (research and development)
- Pharmaceutical Industry/Medicinal Chemist
- Cosmetic and personal care industry
- Sustainability and process chemistry
- Contract synthesis
- Project leader and management
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
Degree classification
Bachelors degree - 2.2.
Degree Subject
Chemistry or a related joint discipline (depending on content).
- Additional Entry Requirements
CV, personal statement and reference required.
1 Reference required - reference needed before sending to academic.- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
Degree classification
UK Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent
Degree Subject
Chemistry or a related joint discipline (depending on content).
- Additional Entry Requirements
CV, personal statement and reference required.
1 Reference required - reference needed before sending to academic.- 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 each component)
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 2 years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills.
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- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2026/27 are:
-
UK Students: £15,050
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International Students: £30,650
We estimate living expenses at £1,136 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here.
Scholarships and Bursaries
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
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
How to apply
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form.
Further information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us:
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk
International candidates are also encouraged to access the International Students section of our website.