BSc in Chemistry

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Durham University

Program Overview

Durham’s Chemistry BSc gives you a solid grounding in all areas of chemistry — from molecules and reactions to materials and biological systems — while sharpening your practical lab skills. It’s perfect if you’re curious about how the world works at a molecular level and enjoy hands-on problem solving, experiments, and discovering real-world applications of science.

Curriculum structure

Year 1: In your first year, you’ll get to grips with the foundations of chemistry. You’ll explore Core Chemistry 1 (CHEM1078) to understand atoms, bonding, and structures, and develop your lab skills in Practical Chemistry 1A & 1B (CHEM1087, CHEM1107). You’ll also build your maths and experimental toolkit through METRiC (CHEM1111) and get a taste of Materials Chemistry (CHEM1127), while having room for optional modules that reflect your personal interests.

Year 2: Your second year takes you deeper into chemistry, connecting theory with hands-on practice. Modules like Core Chemistry 2 (CHEM2012), Chemistry of the Elements (CHEM2077), and Structure and Reactivity in Organic Chemistry (CHEM2087) expand your knowledge in inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. You’ll continue lab work with Practical Chemistry 2 – Integrated (CHEM2138) and can choose electives like Biological Chemistry or Computational Chemistry to explore areas that excite you most.

Year 3: The final year is all about independence and research. You’ll take Core Chemistry 3 (CHEM3012) to bring together all your chemistry knowledge, carry out a substantial BSc Dissertation (CHEM3161), and dive into advanced topics like Chemistry and Society (CHEM3061). This is your chance to experience real scientific research and apply your skills to meaningful projects, preparing you for work, further study, or research.

Focus areas

Inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, materials chemistry, biological and computational chemistry, research and lab skills.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, you’ll be confident in designing and conducting experiments, analysing data, understanding chemical structures and reactions, and applying chemistry to real-world challenges. You’ll also develop key skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, meaning it meets professional standards in the chemical sciences.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Durham Chemistry consistently ranks among the top UK chemistry departments. Around 92% of students earn a 1st or 2:1, and most graduates are in highly skilled work or further study soon after finishing.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Durham, chemistry isn’t just something you read about — it’s something you get to do. From your very first year, you’ll spend plenty of time in modern, fully equipped labs, learning how to design experiments, handle chemicals safely, and interpret real data. You’ll also get the chance to carry out independent research projects, use advanced digital tools, and collaborate with fellow students on group assignments, giving you the skills that employers and postgraduate programmes really value. The department’s world-class facilities mean you’re not just learning theory — you’re experiencing chemistry as it happens, in real time, in real research environments.

Here’s how that experience comes alive in the programme:

State-of-the-art lab facilities: including the Durham X-Ray Centre for techniques like single crystal diffraction, powder diffraction, and protein structure determination.
Practical Chemistry modules: from Year 1 onward, building hands-on experience with synthesis, measurement, data analysis, and lab safety.
Independent research projects: in your final year, you’ll plan and execute experiments or computational studies, analyse results, present findings, and write a formal research-style report.
Real-world application: you’ll engage with cutting-edge analytical techniques and explore how chemistry can tackle global challenges.
Collaborative learning: group lab work, presentations, and project discussions help you develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Advanced digital tools and software: used in computational chemistry and data analysis modules to complement hands-on lab work.
Access to specialist facilities: libraries, analytical suites, and research labs supporting your learning and independent projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from Durham’s Chemistry BSc opens the door to a wide variety of exciting careers. Many alumni go on to work as chemical researchers, analytical chemists, formulation scientists, or in quality and regulatory roles across industries like pharmaceuticals, materials, and energy. With the strong foundation you’ll gain here, your skills are highly valued and transferable across many sectors:

Careers support: The university’s Careers & Enterprise Centre offers personalised guidance, CV and interview workshops, access to jobs fairs, and connections to top employers.
Employment success: Around 85% of recent graduates from this programme are in highly skilled work within 15 months of finishing their degree.
Salary expectations: Early-career graduates typically earn between £28,000–£32,000, reflecting the strong demand for chemistry graduates.
Industry connections: Durham Chemistry has links with major employers like GSK, Procter & Gamble, BP, and Akzo Nobel, giving you opportunities for networking, internships, and exposure to real-world industry problems.
Professional recognition: The degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, giving your qualification long-term credibility and international recognition.
Graduate outcomes: Durham consistently places its graduates among the top in the UK for progression into skilled work or further study.

Further Academic Progression:
If you love research or want to specialise further, a BSc in Chemistry from Durham is a perfect stepping stone. You could pursue a master’s in areas such as materials chemistry, chemical biology, or computational chemistry, or continue to a PhD. These paths can lead to careers in advanced research, academia, or high-level industry R&D roles, giving you the flexibility to shape a career that excites you.