BSc in Chemistry and Physics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Durham University

Program Overview

This course blends the fascinating worlds of chemistry and physics, giving you a deep understanding of both how matter works and how the universe behaves. It’s perfect if you love solving problems, experimenting in labs, and want the flexibility to explore a mix of scientific topics while keeping your career options wide open.

Curriculum structure:
Year 1 gives you a strong foundation in both subjects. You’ll start with Core Chemistry I, learning about bonding, reactions, and spectroscopy, while Foundations of Physics introduces waves, electromagnetism, and the basics of quantum mechanics. Alongside, Linear Algebra and Calculus (or equivalent maths modules) builds the essential maths skills, and Practical Chemistry 1A gets you hands-on in the lab.

Year 2 dives deeper. Core Chemistry 2 explores thermodynamics, spectroscopy, and chemical kinetics, while Practical Chemistry 2 – Measurement helps you sharpen your lab techniques and data analysis skills. In physics, Foundations of Physics 2A and Mathematical Methods in Physics cover advanced topics like electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and computational modelling, all reinforced through Discovery Skills in Physics lab work.

Year 3 lets you specialize and explore independently. You’ll tackle Foundations of Physics 3A covering nuclear and particle physics, and Laboratory Skills and Electronics 3 to master experimental design and electronics. On the chemistry side, you can choose Chemical Physics 3 or Core Chemistry 3 to explore advanced topics like statistical thermodynamics and molecular biophysics. Optional modules such as Science Enterprise or Planets and Cosmology add extra variety, and you’ll finish with a research or enterprise-style project that lets you follow your own scientific curiosity.

Focus areas: “Understanding how chemistry and physics connect, developing strong experimental and computational skills, exploring theoretical and practical science”
Learning outcomes: “Gain solid knowledge in both chemistry and physics, apply maths and computational tools, carry out experiments and research independently, and develop problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills”
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Institute of Physics, giving your degree strong recognition for future careers in science.
Reputation (employability rankings): Durham University is ranked ‘University of the Year’ in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026. For this programme, 89% of graduates were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, and 96% of those in employment held highly-skilled roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Durham, learning isn’t just about lectures and textbooks—you’ll spend a lot of your time doing science. From the very first year, you’ll get hands-on experience in modern labs, using advanced instruments and computing tools that professional scientists rely on. You’ll work on group projects, tackle real research questions, and develop practical skills that are directly relevant to careers in science, engineering, and technology. The programme also gives you access to cutting-edge facilities, allowing you to explore topics that spark your curiosity and build confidence in independent and collaborative work.

Here’s how your practical experience is shaped throughout the course:

Work in dedicated teaching and research labs in the Departments of Chemistry and Physics, including modules like Practical Chemistry 1A/2 – Measurement and Laboratory Skills and Electronics 3, where you learn real-world experimental techniques.
Use advanced instruments at the Durham X-Ray Centre (XRDur) for X-ray diffraction, reflectometry, and tomography, giving you first-hand experience in analyzing materials and structures.
Gain computational and technical skills using resources such as the COSMA 7 supercomputer and high-resolution microscopy suites (SEM, TEM, FIB) in the Department of Physics.
Undertake independent or group project work in areas like chemical physics, computational modeling, or electronics, preparing you for research or industry challenges.
Benefit from excellent library facilities and study spaces, including the Bill Bryson Library and the Teaching & Learning Centre, supporting both individual and group learning with digital tools.
Learn in research-led environments, with laboratories used by academics for world-class investigations, giving you a taste of real scientific research and collaboration.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with this degree gives you a versatile skill set that employers love—you could become a research scientist, work as a materials or chemical engineer, or step into data analysis roles in the sciences and tech. It also opens doors to careers in consulting, laboratory management, or scientific computing. Here’s how Durham helps you turn your degree into real-world opportunities:

The Careers & Enterprise Centre supports you from day one with career planning, CV and interview workshops, employer events, and lifelong access to alumni and industry networks.
Physics and chemistry graduates typically earn around £35,000 per year 15 months after graduating.
Strong industry connections give you a head start: recent graduates have moved into companies like GSK, Procter & Gamble, BP, and AkzoNobel.
Your degree carries long-term value with accreditation from professional bodies like the Institute of Physics, plus excellent employability—over 95% of physics students progress to work or further study within six months of graduation.
In terms of outcomes, 80% of recent graduates were employed or studying further 15 months after finishing, and 85% of those were in highly-skilled roles.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, you could pursue a Master’s in areas such as chemical physics, materials science, or applied mathematics. Alternatively, a PhD in physics or chemistry—at Durham or another top research university—can set you on the path to a research career or academia.