ChemistryBSc
Source: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2026/chemistry-bsc Parent: https://sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2026
2026-27 entry View 2027-28 entry
Chemistry BSc
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Explore topics at the cutting edge of chemistry with our accredited BSc Chemistry course. Gain fundamental knowledge across the breadth of chemistry and develop the skills that every chemist needs for a successful career.
- A Levels \ AAB
- UCAS code \ F100
- Duration \ 3 years
- Start date \ September
-
Attendance \ Full-time
- Course fee
- Funding available
- Optional placement year
- Study abroad option
Send enquiry Apply for this course
Hide
Apply for this course Send enquiry Chat to a student
Explore this course:
Course description
Why study this course?
Top 20 in the UK for Chemistry
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
1st in the Russell Group for learning opportunities, student voice, and assessment and feedback in chemistry
National Student Survey 2025
Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) accredited course
This course is accredited by the RSC and leads towards meeting the academic criteria for Chartered Chemist (CChem).
Opt to spend a full year on an industrial work placement
Test out a career path, build up your CV and grow your network of contacts.
This accredited three-year BSc Chemistry course explores concepts spanning organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry.
You’ll gain hands-on experience from the start of your degree, learning laboratory skills and techniques in our specialist teaching labs.
You’ll have regular tutorials to delve deeper into the complex topics covered in lectures. These small group teaching sessions are led by your academic tutor in first year and subject experts in later years.
In your first year, you’ll study core chemistry concepts. You’ll build a strong foundational knowledge, which will prepare you to progress on to more advanced topics in your second and third year.
You’ll have the opportunity to specialise, tailoring your degree to your interests and career goals through optional modules that cover topics like sustainable chemistry, and biological and medicinal chemistry.
You’ll also get valuable independent research experience through a group research project in your third year. Working on a real scientific problem, you’ll conduct experiments in our state of the art labs, learning from academic researchers who are experts in their field.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry towards meeting the academic criteria for Chartered Chemist (CChem).
Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Modules
We're revising the curriculum of the course for this year of entry. Your first year modules are confirmed. For other years of study, the information here gives you an idea of the areas we expect the course to cover, although there may be changes before you begin. As you progress through your course, we’ll confirm additional details for the core and optional modules available to you.
Title: Chemistry BSc course structure\ UCAS code: F100\ Years: 2026, 2027
First year
Second year
Third year
First year
Core modules:
Fundamentals of Chemistry 1 : This is the first module that you'll take as an undergraduate student. It is designed to give you an understanding of the fundamental concepts in chemistry and introduce you to the key practical skills that every chemist needs.\ \ You'll learn how to apply key concepts and interpret chemical information to solve basic problems through lectures, workshops, tutorials and laboratory work.\ \
**40 credits**
Fundamentals of Chemistry 2 : This module continues to develop your understanding of the foundations of modern degree-level chemistry and associated laboratory skills. \ \ You'll learn about core principles from inorganic, biological, organic and physical chemistry through lectures, workshops, tutorials and laboratory work. You'll learn how to apply these core principles to address chemical problems, and understand the behaviour of atomic and molecular systems.\ \ You'll continue to advance your knowledge of essential laboratory skills, by conducting independent experimental work and data analysis.
**40 credits**
Essential Skills for Chemists : This module provides first year chemistry students with the broader academic and professional skills required to study chemistry at degree level. The module includes fundamental physics and mathematics, data analysis, computing skills, and searching and using the scientific literature. Students will also undertake a group project on the standards and values expected of a professional chemist.\ \ The module has been designed to introduce students to varied methods of learning and teaching used throughout the programme including online self-led activities, lectures and group work.
**20 credits**
The chemical world around us: from biological chemistry to sustainability : Chemistry plays a crucial role in the world around us, acting as the backbone of fundamental biological processes and helping to create a sustainable future. This module explores how chemistry explains the principles behind the biology we experience in our day-to-day lives, and the contributions chemists can make to society, with a particular focus on sustainability. \ \ You'll learn about the strong link between human activity, the biological world around us and sustainability. You'll also develop the ability to explain scientific concepts to a range of audiences, working in groups to produce infographics, videos and magazine articles.
**20 credits**
Second year
In your second year, you’ll continue to build your essential knowledge of chemistry and develop your laboratory skills.
Example core topics covered:
- Reactions of common functional groups in organic chemistry and how to create synthetic routes to build target molecules.
- Theory and application of spectroscopic and analytical techniques, including the data analysis required to identify chemical compounds.
- Structure, bonding and reactivity of coordination complexes and main group compounds.
- Energy states and shapes of molecules, and the fundamental properties and synthesis of solid state materials.
You’ll also have the opportunity to enhance your knowledge of biological and medicinal chemistry or sustainable chemistry through optional modules.
Third year
In your third year, you’ll explore advanced concepts in chemistry and apply them to current problems, hone your laboratory skills, and gain valuable hands-on experience by undertaking a project.
Example core topics covered:
- Advanced spectroscopy, including electronic excited states.
- Investigating organic reaction mechanisms using quantitative and qualitative approaches.
- Organometallic compounds and the interplay of ligands with metal ions. This includes their use in catalysis, materials and devices.
- Chemistry at surfaces and interfaces, and how these are vital in chemical industries.
You’ll also have the opportunity to specialise through optional modules, including topics such as chemical biology, sustainable chemistry and energy technologies.
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
To make sure you get the skills and knowledge that every chemist needs, you’ll learn through lectures, small group tutorials and workshops, practical sessions in the lab, and research projects.
We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.
Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over one million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.
Learning support facilities and library opening hours
Assessment
You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways, including laboratory work, coursework, online quizzes, examinations, essays and other written work.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
- Standard offer
- Access Sheffield offer
Standard offer
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\ AAB \ including Chemistry
A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification : ABB including Chemistry + B in the EPQ; ABB including Chemistry + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
International Baccalaureate : 34, with 5 in Higher Level Chemistry; 33, with 5 in Higher Level Chemistry, and B in the extended essay
BTEC Extended Diploma : DDD in Applied Science (Basic, Analytical & Forensic Science or Physical Science streams only) including specific Chemistry units
BTEC Diploma : DD in Applied Science + A in A Level Chemistry
Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s : AAABB + B in Chemistry
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels : B + AA including Chemistry
Access to HE Diploma : The award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject covering sufficient Chemistry units, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit. Applicants are considered individually and must provide a course syllabus
Other requirements
- GCSE Maths grade 6/B
- BTEC required units include Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Applications of Organic Chemistry, Industrial Chemical Reactions, and Practical Chemical Analysis
Access Sheffield offer
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:\ ABB \ including Chemistry
A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification : ABB including Chemistry + B in the EPQ; ABB including Chemistry + A in AS or B in A Level Further Maths
International Baccalaureate : 33, with 5 in Higher Level Chemistry
BTEC Extended Diploma : DDD in Applied Science (Basic, Analytical & Forensic Science or Physical Science streams only) including specific Chemistry units
BTEC Diploma : DD in Applied Science + B in A Level Chemistry
Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s : AABBB + B in Chemistry
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels : B + AB including Chemistry
Access to HE Diploma : The award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject covering sufficient Chemistry units, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit. Applicants are considered individually and must provide a course syllabus
Other requirements
- GCSE Maths grade 6/B
- BTEC required units include Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Applications of Organic Chemistry, Industrial Chemical Reactions, and Practical Chemical Analysis
English language requirements |
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
Pathway programme for international students
If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school.
Graduate careers
- 92% of BSc Chemistry graduates in work or further study 15 months after graduation\ Graduate Outcomes 2022-23
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
You won’t be short of career options with a degree in chemistry from Sheffield. Our courses are designed to give you the skills that will help you succeed. Employers hire our graduates because of their ability to plan projects, work to deadlines, analyse data, and solve complex problems.
Whether you want to stay in the lab after you graduate or make use of your transferable skills, a chemistry degree from Sheffield will prepare you to help work on global challenges and develop innovative technologies and processes.
Our graduates go on to work in a variety of careers, including:
- Pharmaceuticals
- Consumer goods
- Manufacturing
- Data science
- Computing and software development
- Finance and consultancy
- Public administration and policy
- Education
Our graduates have gone on to work for companies such as, AstraZeneca, Barclays, Croda, the Environment Agency, Fujitsu, GSK, HSBC, Lonza, PwC, Reckitt and Unilever.
Many of our graduates also choose to pursue a career in research and go on to do PhDs at some of the world's top 100 universities.
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
95% of our chemistry research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is leading the way with groundbreaking research and innovative teaching.
Our chemistry researchers are focusing on some of society’s most pressing challenges, from antimicrobial resistance to environmental sustainability. We collaborate closely with industry to find solutions and develop innovative new technologies. Many of our academics bring first-hand industrial and business experience to their teaching.
To help our students feel part of a community, the Chemistry Society (ChemSoc) organises activities ranging from guest lectures to the annual Chemistry Ball. Our students can also take part in an LGBT+ support group and a crafts group.
Facilities
Chemistry students are based in the Dainton and the Richard Roberts Buildings, which have classrooms, lecture theatres and three specialist teaching labs for organic, inorganic and physical chemistry.
Our labs are equipped with specialist analytical equipment, including nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared and ultraviolet spectrometry, and gas- and size-exclusion chromatography.
We’re also home to state-of-the-art chemistry laboratories and several multi-million pound materials science facilities:
- The Lord Porter Ultrafast Laser Spectroscopy Laboratory, which is used in studies ranging from energy transport in molecules and materials to artificial photosynthesis.
- The Soft Matter Analytical Laboratory, where scientists can study samples that are 100 times smaller than a human hair.
- The Sheffield Surface Analysis Centre, which is home to an array of state-of-the-art instrumentation.
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
University rankings
A world top-100 university\ QS World University Rankings 2026 (92nd)
Number one in the Russell Group (based on aggregate responses)\ National Student Survey 2025
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent\ Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year for Student Experience\ The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
Number one Students' Union in the UK\ Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union\ StudentCrowd 2025 University Awards
20th in the UK targeted by the largest number of Top 100 Employers in 2025-26\ High Fliers 2026
Student profiles
What it's really like to study in the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
We asked some of our students and graduates to share their experiences of studying at the University of Sheffield, and to tell us what they've ended up doing with their degree.
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Examples of what’s included and excluded
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
£2,500 per year scholarships for international students
We're offering automatic scholarships worth up to £10,000 to overseas fee-paying students starting their studies in September 2026 - no additional application required.
Placements and study abroad
Placement
You may have the opportunity to add an optional industrial placement year as part of your course, converting the three-year course to a four-year Degree with an Industrial Placement Year.
A placement year will help you to:
- gain an insight into possible careers
- develop a range transferable skills
- build a professional network
- get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
- add valuable work experience to your CV
- gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
- apply elements of academic learning in the workplace
If you opt to do an industrial placement year, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for a placement with organisations across a range of industries. Our students have secured placements with organisations, including AstraZeneca, EDF Energy, GSK and PepsiCo.
Research experience
Develop your research skills through the Sheffield Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) scheme. This initiative gives you the opportunity to gain paid research experience, working in one of our research groups over the summer in an area of chemistry that you’re excited about.
Study abroad
Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget.
You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually between the second and third year. We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Find out more on the Global Opportunities website.
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Online events
Join our weekly Sheffield Live online sessions to find out more about different aspects of University life.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\ www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Contact us
Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.
Contacts for prospective students
School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.
Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer
2026-2027
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:\ www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Explore topics at the cutting edge of chemistry with our accredited BSc Chemistry course. Gain fundamental knowledge across the breadth of chemistry and develop the skills that every chemist needs for a successful career.
No No No No Course description Modules Learning and assessment Entry requirements Graduate careers Department University rankings Student profiles Fees and funding Placements and study abroad Extra info box