MChem (Hons) Chemistry, Biological and Medicinal Chemistry

4 Years On Campus Accelerated-bachelors Program

University of York

Program Overview

This four-year master’s course combines the study of core chemistry with exciting insights into how molecules influence living systems and human health. It’s a great fit if you’re fascinated by how chemistry drives biological processes and want to play a role in developing the medicines of the future.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
Your first year lays the groundwork for success in chemistry. You’ll explore essential principles through modules like Foundations of Chemistry 1–4 and develop key experimental techniques in Introductory Skills and Practical 1 & 2. From understanding molecular structure to mastering lab safety and analysis, you’ll start to think and work like a chemist.

Year 2:
In your second year, you’ll deepen your knowledge with Advanced Chemistry Concepts and Applications 1–3 and Advanced Skills and Practical 1 & 2. The specialist module Genes to Proteins introduces you to the chemistry of life itself — how molecules form the basis of biological function. Regular lab work and problem-solving sessions help connect theory to real-world applications.

Year 3:
Your third year bridges chemistry with medicine and biology. You’ll study advanced topics in Frontiers of Chemistry 1–3 and explore how chemistry contributes to understanding and treating disease through Chemistry and Disease and a Mini-project at the Chemistry–Biology Interface. This is where you start to shape your own scientific interests and gain hands-on experience with modern research tools.

Year 4:
The final year is all about research and professional development. You’ll complete an Advanced Research Project within one of York’s world-leading research groups, supported by modules like Professional Research Development and Research Communication. You’ll work alongside experienced scientists, gaining the confidence and skills to take the next step in your career or further study.

Focus areas:
Biological and medicinal chemistry, drug design and development, molecular biology, advanced synthetic and analytical chemistry, and computational chemistry.

Learning outcomes:
You’ll graduate with a deep understanding of how chemistry underpins biology and medicine, strong analytical and laboratory skills, and the ability to design, conduct and communicate independent scientific research — all highly valued by employers and research institutions worldwide.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This degree is fully accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), meaning it meets the academic requirements for Chartered Chemist (CChem) status.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of York’s Department of Chemistry is consistently ranked among the best in the UK — 6th nationally (Complete University Guide 2026) — and is renowned for graduate employability and research excellence.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From your very first week at York, you’ll be in the lab learning how chemistry works in practice — not just reading about it in textbooks. You’ll carry out real experiments in synthesis, analysis and biological chemistry, working with the same kind of cutting-edge equipment used by professional researchers. As you progress, your practical work becomes more independent, preparing you to take on ambitious research projects in areas like drug design, molecular biology, and medicinal chemistry. You’ll also benefit from York’s outstanding research facilities — home to leading scientists and world-class technology.

Here’s how you’ll gain hands-on experience throughout the degree:

Modern teaching laboratories – You’ll spend plenty of time in purpose-built labs equipped for analytical, organic, and biological chemistry, supported by experienced technicians and academic mentors.
Independent research project – In your final year, you’ll join one of York’s active research groups and design your own project in biological or medicinal chemistry, working with advanced instruments and real data.
Team-based experiments and group projects – From first year onwards, you’ll collaborate on creative experiments like the “Chemistry of a Night Out” investigation, learning how to plan, test and present your findings as part of a team.
Industry placement option – You can choose the year in industry route to gain professional experience with pharmaceutical, biotechnology or chemical companies, building your CV and industry connections.
World-class research centres – You’ll have access to leading facilities including the York Structural Biology Laboratory, Centre of Excellence in Mass Spectrometry, Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence, Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratories, and the York JEOL Nanocentre.
Digital and analytical tools – You’ll develop computational and data analysis skills that are increasingly important in modern drug discovery and materials research.
Collaborative learning spaces – Regular tutorials and workshops ensure you get personalised guidance on your practical work, with feedback from tutors who are active researchers themselves.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this MChem program opens the door to exciting careers where chemistry makes a real impact on health, industry, and research. Many of our alumni move into roles such as Medicinal Chemist, Analytical Scientist, Process Development Chemist, or Research Scientist, combining hands-on lab skills with critical problem-solving and innovation. With York’s strong academic foundation, you’re also well-equipped to explore leadership or specialised roles in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries:

University support for employability: York’s dedicated Careers and Placements team will guide you in building your CV, preparing for interviews, applying for graduate schemes, and finding work placements or industrial opportunities.
Strong employment outcomes: Chemistry graduates from York enjoy excellent prospects, with typical starting salaries around £29,000 after 15 months, reflecting the value employers place on your advanced training.
Professional accreditation: This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), meaning you meet the academic requirements for Chartered Chemist (CChem) status — a mark of professional recognition that boosts long-term career potential.
Industry connections: The department collaborates with companies like Synthomer and the Circa Group, and benefits from initiatives like the Sustainable Chemicals and Materials Manufacturing Hub, giving students real insight into cutting-edge industrial chemistry.
Research and innovation pathways: Your master’s-level projects and access to York’s research facilities prepare you for roles in R&D, consultancy, or senior technical positions in both academia and industry.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re inspired to continue your studies, this degree sets you up perfectly for postgraduate research — including MSc or PhD programs in medicinal chemistry, biological chemistry, sustainable chemistry, or chemical engineering. You could also branch into applied areas such as regulatory toxicology, pharmaceutical science, or data-driven chemical innovation, building on the advanced laboratory and research skills you develop here.