Year 1

The topics covered include

• the periodic table and main group chemistry
• transition metal chemistry
• organic chemistry
• chemical kinetics
• theoretical chemistry
• chemical energy changes
• aqueous equilibria and pH
• macromolecules.

You will also study two other subjects in year 1 according to your interests: see Degrees in Arts, Science and Social Sciences.

Year 2

Your second year builds on the first-year course and involves the following topics:

• molecular thermodynamics
• organic stereochemistry
• quantum mechanics, chemical bonding and symmetry
• organometallic chemistry
• main group chemistry
• enols and enolates
• spectroscopy
• kinetics
• aromatic chemistry
• coordination chemistry
• organic synthesis
• biophysical chemistry
• applied organic chemistry.

You will also study one or two other subjects in year 2 according to your interests: see Degrees in Arts, Science and Social Sciences.

Years 3, 4 and 5

If you progress to Honours (years three and four) you will study advanced topics in chemistry including aspects of synthetic methods, nanoscience, catalysis, quantum mechanics, biomolecular interactions and transition metal chemistry. In your final year you will undertake a research project at the frontiers of the subject.

You can take Chemistry as an MSci degree which includes an additional work placement year. Placements are usually in the UK, but can also be taken overseas. They happen between third year and the final year of the degree.

The ScotCHEM initiative enables more than 180 chemistry research teams based at Scottish universities, including Glasgow, to pool resources in a world-class research collaboration.

The MSci degree offers the opportunity to spend a year doing research in a European university or a work placement outwith the UK before returning for your final year of study.

A Chemistry degree provides not only knowledge of the subject but also training in taking decisions, analysis of problems, communication, calculations, use of computers, recognition of patterns, abstract ideas and symbolism, precision and awareness of risks. Our graduates are employed as chemists working in research, process development or analysis, as well as in management, marketing, environmental control, patents and finance.

Our recent Chemistry graduates have been employed by

• EDF Energy, graduate trainee in nuclear industry
• Quotient Clinical, manufacturing scientist
• Reckitt Benckiser, formulation technician
• Sterling Medical Innovation, research and medical technician
• Synergy Outsourcing, analyst.