Chemistry with Work Placement MSci

5 Years On Campus Accelerated-bachelors Program

University of Glasgow

Program Overview

This degree gives you a solid foundation in all areas of chemistry — from the behaviour of molecules and materials to real‑world applications like antibiotics, semiconductors, and chemical analysis. It’s perfect for curious, hands-on students who want the chance to apply their skills in a real workplace through an integrated industrial or research placement.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
Your first year sets the stage with the basics of chemistry through units like Chemistry 1, covering topics such as the periodic table, chemical bonding, organic molecules, chemical reactions, and energy changes. Alongside this, you’ll explore other science and elective courses, giving you a broad foundation while keeping options open for your future specialisation.

Year 2
In the second year, the program dives deeper with units such as Chemistry 2X and Chemistry 2Y. You’ll explore molecular thermodynamics, organic stereochemistry, quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and transition metal chemistry. This year helps you develop a stronger grasp of complex chemical concepts and prepares you for more advanced study.

Years 3, 4 & 5
In Year 3, advanced modules like Inorganic Chemistry 3, Organic Chemistry 3, Physical Chemistry 3, and Frontiers of Chemistry 3M will let you tackle topics such as catalysis, medicinal chemistry, and materials science, while honing your lab and analytical skills. Year 4 is your placement year, giving you the invaluable experience of working in industry or research, applying what you’ve learned in real-world settings. The final year focuses on Special Topics, Problem Solving, and a Chemistry Project, letting you explore your own research interests and develop expertise in cutting-edge chemistry.

Focus areas

Synthetic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, catalysis, spectroscopy, quantum chemistry, transition metal chemistry, and professional work experience.

Learning outcomes

Gain deep theoretical knowledge and practical lab skills, apply chemistry in real-world settings, carry out an independent research project, and develop professional, communication, and problem-solving skills for a successful career in chemistry.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This programme is fully accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, ensuring it meets high standards and prepares you for professional chemistry careers.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Glasgow Chemistry is ranked among the UK’s top chemistry departments. Graduates enjoy excellent employment prospects, with very low unemployment and strong starting salaries.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Glasgow, chemistry isn’t just something you read about — it’s something you do. From your very first year, you’ll be working hands-on in fully equipped labs, running experiments, analysing data, and collaborating with classmates. By the time you reach Year 4, you’ll spend a full year on placement in industry or a research institute, giving you a real taste of professional chemistry and helping you build a network that will support your career. Along the way, group projects, research challenges, and guidance from experienced staff make sure you’re developing both technical skills and teamwork abilities.

Some of the ways you’ll gain practical experience include:

A dedicated placement year where you work in industry or an academic lab, applying what you’ve learned in a professional setting.
Advanced lab modules like Chemistry Project 4M(A) and Chemistry Problems 4M(A), where you plan experiments, solve complex problems, and present your findings.
Group projects and teamwork, helping you develop collaboration, leadership, and project management skills.
Access to the School of Chemistry’s labs, equipped for synthesis, spectroscopy, catalysis, and materials chemistry — giving you a real research-style environment.
Preparation for placements, including interview guidance, employability workshops, and professional skills training.
Use of digital tools and scientific software to analyse data, document experiments, and create professional presentations.
Real-world applications in modules that explore antibiotics, new materials, semiconductors, and trace analysis, linking your work directly to industry and research challenges.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this programme leave ready to step straight into exciting careers such as research chemist, process development scientist, analytical chemist, or environmental and regulatory specialist. Thanks to the integrated placement year, you’ll graduate not only with an advanced qualification but also with real-world professional experience, giving you a serious advantage in the job market. Here’s how Glasgow supports your journey and what you can expect:

The University’s Careers Service offers personalised guidance, CV and interview support, workshops for finding placements, and networking events with employers, all tailored for chemistry students.
Employment outcomes are strong: recent graduates report median salaries of around £26,000 fifteen months after completing their degree.
Your degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, meaning it’s recognised by employers and adds long-term value to your professional profile.
Strong industry connections: graduates have gone on to work for leading organisations such as EDF Energy, Quotient Clinical, and Reckitt Benckiser.

Further Academic Progression:
If you decide to continue your studies, this degree sets you up perfectly for postgraduate opportunities like a PhD in chemistry, materials science, or pharmaceutical research, or a specialised MSc in a chemistry-related field. Your hands-on research experience, placement year, and advanced coursework make you a competitive candidate for further study at top institutions around the world.