Chemistry with a Year in Industry MSci

At King’s, Chemistry isn’t just something you read about in a textbook—it’s something you do. From your very first year, you’ll get hands-on experience in well-equipped labs, learning how to apply theory to real chemical problems. One of the highlights of this programme is the full year in industry during Year 3, where you’ll work in a professional setting, gain practical skills, and see how chemistry drives real-world innovation. Along the way, you’ll use advanced instruments, collaborate on group projects, and explore computational chemistry tools that scientists actually use in research and industry.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Year in Industry Placement: A full-year professional internship in your third year with support from King’s Careers Services and the Chemistry Department, giving experience in chemical, pharmaceutical, biotech, or even finance and law sectors.

• Hands-On Labs: Integrated laboratory modules in Years 1 & 2, including Integrated Chemistry Laboratory 1 and 2, letting you apply what you learn in lectures to real experiments.

• Advanced Research Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art instrumentation like 400 MHz NMR, HPLC, LCMS/HRMS, GCMS, and other analytical tools at Britannia House.

• Digital & Computational Tools: Training in computational chemistry and digital lab methods, preparing you for modern research and industry practices.

• Research Projects: Opportunities to work with departmental research groups or partners such as the Francis Crick Institute, tackling projects in green chemistry, materials, or drug design.

• Campus & Libraries: Study at central London campuses with access to extensive libraries, computing facilities, and proximity to major research hubs and companies, boosting your networking and professional development.

Graduates from this programme leave King’s ready to take on exciting roles in the real world. Many go on to work as research scientists in pharma or biotech, analytical chemists in materials or energy sectors, consultants or technical specialists in the chemical industry, or product development and regulatory affairs professionals. With the year in industry, you’ll not only have strong academic credentials but also practical experience that makes you stand out to employers:

• University support: KCL’s Careers & Employability service, along with a dedicated Faculty Placement Coordinator, helps you secure your industry placement and offers guidance on CVs, interviews, and networking.

• Employment stats & salaries: About 90% of KCL physical sciences graduates are in work or further study 15 months after finishing, with typical starting salaries around £31,000.

• University–industry connections: The programme’s industrial year is backed by strong relationships with companies in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, biotech, finance, and law, giving you access to meaningful, hands-on work experience.

• Accreditation value: The Royal Society of Chemistry accredits this degree, so employers recognize your qualification as a mark of quality and professionalism.

• Graduation outcomes: By the end of the five-year MSci, you’ll have advanced scientific knowledge, real-world work experience, and the skills needed for senior roles or research careers.

Further Academic Progression:
After the MSci, you could continue your studies with a master’s (MSc) or PhD in chemistry or related fields like materials science, drug discovery, computational chemistry, or green technologies. Many graduates also join research groups in academia or industry, positioning themselves for careers in innovation, leadership, or teaching.