Chemistry and Physics MSci

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Durham University

Program Overview

The MSci in Chemistry and Physics at Durham University lets you explore two closely linked sciences in one exciting degree. It’s perfect for curious minds who enjoy hands-on experiments, problem-solving, and understanding how the world works at both a molecular and physical level.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year lays the groundwork in both subjects. You’ll start with Core Chemistry 1 and Practical Chemistry 1A, alongside physics modules like Foundations of Physics 1, plus essential maths courses such as Linear Algebra I. This year is all about building the fundamentals, learning lab skills, and getting comfortable with the quantitative tools you’ll use throughout the degree.

Year 2
In the second year, you dive deeper. Chemistry modules like Core Chemistry 2, Properties of Molecules, and Practical Chemistry 2 – Measurement expand your lab and analytical experience, while physics modules like Foundations of Physics 2A, Mathematical Methods in Physics, and Discovery Skills in Physics help you explore theoretical concepts and hands-on applications. By now, you’re connecting theory with practice in both fields.

Year 3
Year three brings advanced topics and more integrated study. You’ll explore Chemical Physics 3, Computational Chemical Physics, and Molecules and their Interactions in chemistry, and Foundations of Physics 3A, Laboratory Skills and Electronics 3, and other higher-level physics modules. This year is about applying your knowledge in experiments, calculations, and computational modeling.

Year 4
The final year is your chance to shine. You’ll take advanced modules like Chemical Physics 4, Computational Chemical Physics 4, and specialised physics options such as Atomic and Optical Physics or Theoretical Physics 4. The highlight is your independent research project, where you design, investigate, and showcase your ability to think like a scientist.

Focus areas:
Chemistry and Physics integration • Experimental and computational methods • Quantitative modelling • Materials, molecular interactions and physical systems

Learning outcomes:
You’ll graduate able to solve complex problems across chemistry and physics, design and carry out experiments, model systems with maths and computers, interpret data, and communicate your findings clearly. You’ll also have the confidence to tackle independent research projects.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), giving you a strong professional edge.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Durham University is ranked 64th in the world for Employer Reputation by QS (2026). Chemistry and Physics are highly ranked nationally, and over 95% of graduates secure employment or further study within six months.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Durham, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. From day one, you’ll get hands-on experience in both chemistry and physics, using state-of-the-art labs, cutting-edge software, and real research tools. Whether you’re modelling molecules on a computer, calibrating instruments in a physics lab, or running your own experiments, you’ll be actively applying what you learn. The programme is designed so that your studies are closely tied to the exciting research happening right now in the departments of Chemistry and Physics.

Here’s how you’ll experience learning in action:

Work in fully equipped teaching and research labs on the Science Site, including advanced chemistry labs and physics experimental labs.
Gain experience with high-performance computing, simulation software, and other digital tools for modelling chemical and physical systems.
Complete a major independent research project in your final year, showcasing your skills and creativity.
Choose from flexible modules like Computational Chemical Physics to develop practical and analytical experience in simulations and data analysis.
Connect with the wider scientific community through institutes such as the Institute for Particle Physics Phenomenology and the Institute for Computational Cosmology.
Optionally take a work-based placement module to gain professional experience and insight into scientific careers.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Durham’s MSci in Chemistry and Physics leave with a unique blend of skills and hands-on experience, giving them the confidence and expertise to step straight into exciting careers. Typical roles include research scientist, materials engineer, analytical chemist, or data and modelling specialist. Because the programme covers both chemistry and physics, you’re well-prepared for multidisciplinary careers in areas like nanotechnology, energy materials, or computational modelling:

Durham’s Careers & Enterprise Centre supports you from the very start, helping with CVs, interviews, and connecting you to employer fairs and networking opportunities.
Over 95% of graduates from physics and related degrees secure a job or further study within six months of finishing their course.
Starting salaries for graduates are strong, with typical ranges from £27,500 to £43,000, and a median around £33,500 five years after graduation.
The programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), giving your degree long-term professional recognition.
Durham has strong industry partnerships, including projects through the Durham Energy Institute, where you could get experience working alongside leading companies in energy and materials research.
Graduates have flexibility in their careers: industry roles, government labs, product development, consulting, finance, or research are all within reach.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, the MSci provides a strong foundation for postgraduate opportunities such as an MSc or PhD in areas like materials science, nanotechnology, computational physics and chemistry, energy research, or other advanced scientific fields.