Chemistry, Mathematics & Education BSc

At University College Dublin, the BSc in Chemistry, Mathematics & Education is designed so that students not only study chemistry and mathematics in depth but also actively develop their teaching capabilities through real classroom experience. From early in the programme, students combine subject study with education theory and structured observation in schools. As they progress, placements become progressively more immersive — by the final years, students are teaching and participating in whole-school experiences that build confidence and professionalism as future educators. Placements and practical experiences are fully arranged by the programme and integrated into the course structure:

• Structured school placements, starting with supervised observation and shorter experiences in post-primary schools to introduce students to classroom dynamics and educational practice early on

• Peer-assisted tutoring roles, giving hands-on experience supporting learners in mathematics and science topics alongside lectures and labs

• Year-long placements in post-primary schools in the final years, where students plan and deliver lessons, engage with school activities, and participate in timetabling and school life

• Teaching integration with subject modules, where education theory and pedagogical approaches are applied directly to chemistry and mathematics studies, linking content knowledge with effective teaching strategies

• Observation and practice embedded alongside laboratory work and lectures, so students see how educational practices connect with theoretical and practical science and maths knowledge

• Participation in broader school environments, gaining whole-school experience beyond classroom teaching in later placements

• Academic support from Faculty of Science and School of Education, with feedback from experienced educators and opportunities for reflective practice on teaching development

This combination of academic study, real placements and practical teaching experience ensures students graduate with strong subject knowledge and credible classroom experience, fully prepared to teach Chemistry and Mathematics at post-primary level after completing the subsequent MSc in Mathematics and Science Education.

Graduates of the BSc Chemistry, Mathematics & Education at University College Dublin are prepared to combine scientific and mathematical knowledge with teaching skills, enabling careers in education and STEM outreach. They typically advance into roles requiring both subject expertise and pedagogical competence. Common graduate outcomes include: Secondary School Teacher (Chemistry or Mathematics), Educational Consultant, Science and Mathematics Curriculum Developer, and STEM Outreach Coordinator. This combination ensures strong employability in education, research support, and training sectors:

• University services supporting employability: UCD Careers Network provides guidance for teaching careers, including classroom placement support, CV and interview preparation, career workshops, and teacher recruitment events

• Employment outcomes and earning potential: Graduates achieve high placement rates in teaching roles, with competitive starting salaries for qualified secondary school teachers in Ireland and clear long-term career progression

• University–industry partnerships: UCD collaborates with schools, educational bodies, and national STEM initiatives to offer teaching placements, professional development workshops, and research opportunities in science and mathematics education

• Long-term accreditation value: The programme meets national teaching standards and is recognised by the Teaching Council of Ireland, providing professional credibility and mobility

• Graduation outcomes: Graduates are equipped for classroom teaching, curriculum development, educational policy support, STEM outreach programmes, and leadership roles in educational settings

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may continue to Postgraduate Diplomas in Education, Master’s programmes in Education, Curriculum and Instruction, or STEM Pedagogy, or pursue research-focused MPhil or PhD degrees. This supports advanced careers in educational research, leadership in schools, curriculum design, and international STEM education initiatives.