Chemistry with Mathematics BSc (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Keele University

Program Overview

Keele’s Chemistry with Mathematics degree is perfect if you love exploring the science behind how things work while also enjoying numbers, patterns, and problem-solving. You’ll gain a strong foundation in chemistry alongside advanced mathematical tools, giving you the skills to tackle real-world scientific challenges and open doors to research, industry, or further study.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll get to grips with the essentials of both chemistry and mathematics. Chemistry modules like Chemical Structure and Reactivity introduce you to atoms, molecules, and how they interact, while Chemistry Connections shows how chemistry is part of everyday life, from medicine to materials. On the mathematics side, modules such as Limits, Series and Calculus and Differential Equations and Multivariable Calculus give you the foundations to think logically and solve complex problems.

Year 2
Year two takes your skills to the next level. In chemistry, you’ll dive into Practical and Professional Chemistry, developing hands-on lab skills and mastering key techniques, and Chemical Characterisation and Transformations, which explores how compounds react and behave. Mathematics modules like Linear Differential Equations and Complex Variables and Vector Calculus show you how to apply mathematical reasoning to real scientific problems. This year also gives you the chance to try a placement or study abroad, gaining valuable real-world experience.

Year 3 (Final Year)
In your final year, you’ll really make the course your own. You can choose advanced modules, such as Nonlinear Differential Equations or other specialised chemistry topics that match your interests. The highlight is your Independent Research Project, where you carry out original experiments, analyse results, and explore a topic you’re passionate about — all while building the skills employers and postgraduate programs love to see.

Focus Areas

Molecular structure and reactivity, computational chemistry, mathematical modelling, lab skills and instrumentation, data analysis, problem-solving in environmental and materials chemistry.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll finish the course confident in applying maths to chemistry, designing and running experiments, interpreting data critically, communicating scientific ideas clearly, and carrying out independent research projects.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is put forward for accreditation by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), meeting professional standards in the chemical sciences.

Reputation (Employability / Rankings)

Keele’s chemistry department scored 96% in student satisfaction (NSS 2025).
Keele’s mathematics is ranked in the Top 10 in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026).
Keele has Gold status in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), reflecting excellent teaching and support.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Keele, you won’t just sit in lectures learning theory — you’ll get your hands on real chemistry from the start. The Central Science Laboratories give you access to professional-grade equipment, so you can explore chemical reactions, run analyses, and even try your hand at research-level experiments. On the maths side, computer labs and digital tools let you model real-world systems and apply mathematical reasoning to the problems chemists face every day. Throughout the course, you’ll also work with your peers on projects, giving you teamwork experience and a taste of professional collaboration. Here’s how you’ll gain practical skills during your degree:

Modern Laboratories: Work in Keele’s Central Science Laboratories, including labs for analytical chemistry, synthesis, and research projects.
Instrumentation Skills: Get hands-on experience with equipment like UV-Vis spectrometers, IR, and NMR instruments.
Digital Tools & Coding: Use computer labs and remote-access software to model chemical systems and run simulations with tools like Python.
Group Projects: Participate in industrial-style group projects that build teamwork, communication, and project management skills.
Work Placements: Optional placements give real-world industry experience and insight into professional scientific careers.
Independent Research: Conduct your own research project in your final year, designing experiments, analysing results, and presenting findings.
Virtual Learning Support: Keele’s online platform (KLE) provides lecture notes, lab guides, quizzes, and resources for learning on and off campus.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from Keele’s Chemistry with Mathematics degree gives you a strong edge in the job market, combining hands-on chemistry skills with powerful mathematical thinking. Many of our graduates step confidently into roles such as analytical chemist, chemical engineer, environmental scientist, or materials scientist, while others pursue research or academic careers as scientists or lecturers.

Keele supports you every step of the way:

Careers & Employability support: Access tailored workshops, mock interviews with chemical companies, networking events, and mentoring from alumni.
Departmental guidance: Our chemistry department provides a dedicated careers tutor, helping you explore industry options and postgraduate pathways.
Graduate outcomes: Mathematics and chemistry graduates from Keele typically earn around £31,000 in their first roles.
Professional recognition: The course is proposed for Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) accreditation, ensuring your degree carries lasting value in the chemical sciences.
Industry experience: Take part in Keele’s Flexible Work Placement module for real-world experience in a lab or company.
Pathway to further study: Many students continue to Master’s programs or PhDs, building on research projects and specialist interests from the degree.

Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you can continue your studies in areas like computational chemistry, physical chemistry, or applied mathematics at Master’s level, or pursue a PhD if you’re keen to dive deeper into research and make a real contribution to science.