University of Strathclyde United Kingdom

BSc (Hons), MChem Forensic & Analytical Chemistry

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 5 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons), MChem Forensic & Analytical Chemistry at the University of Strathclyde is your gateway to a critical scientific discipline that underpins justice and public health. You will explore the complex interplay between chemistry and forensic science, developing the analytical expertise needed to solve crimes and ensure product safety. This programme is ideal for those with a keen interest in chemical principles and their application to real-world challenges, preparing you for a vital role in scientific investigation and analysis.

You will study this rigorous degree full-time on campus over four years for the BSc (Hons) or five years for the MChem. The curriculum integrates core chemistry modules with specialised forensic and analytical chemistry, including practical sessions and laboratory work. You will develop essential transferable skills, such as scientific writing and problem-solving, and have the opportunity for an industrial, research, or knowledge exchange placement. Graduates are prepared for careers as forensic scientists, analytical chemists, or in related fields within law enforcement, government agencies, and private laboratories.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive education in forensic and analytical chemistry, building foundational chemical principles in the first year. Subsequent years delve into specialized areas of inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, alongside practical laboratory skills and forensic applications. The MChem pathway offers advanced study and research opportunities, while the BSc (Hons) concludes with specialized modules and a project.

1 Year 1

Personal Development Planning (PDP)
Chemistry: Principles & practice 1 & 2 Compulsory
Practical & transferable skills Compulsory
Mathematics 1C Compulsory
Foundation science: big ideas for chemists Compulsory
Elective modules (Optional)

2 Year 2

Inorganic chemistry Compulsory
Fundamental organic chemistry Compulsory
Physical chemistry 1 Compulsory
Practical organic & inorganic chemistry Compulsory
Practical physical and applied chemistry and chemical analysis Compulsory
Forensic trace analysis and analytical chemistry Compulsory

3 Year 3

Physical chemistry 2 Compulsory
Practical organic & inorganic chemistry Compulsory
Intermediate organic chemistry & spectroscopy Compulsory
Inorganic chemistry, structures & spectroscopy Compulsory
Practical physical, applied, forensic & analytical chemistry Compulsory
Analytical chemistry & drugs of abuse Compulsory

4 Year 4 MChem

Distance learning Compulsory
Industrial placement Optional
Research placement Optional
Knowledge exchange placement Optional

5 Year 4 BSc(Hons)

Core chemistry Compulsory
BSc forensic and analytical chemistry specialisation Compulsory
BSc projects Compulsory
Careers & professional skills Compulsory

6 Year 5 Mchem

Core chemistry Compulsory
MChem forensic and analytical chemistry specialisation Compulsory
Final-year project & dissertation Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

25% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,754.00 USD 39,672.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 39,672.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 39,672.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 39,672.00
Fifth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 39,672.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 188,443.00 USD 198,361.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 837.00 - USD 1,436.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on John Anderson Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising TechnologyAerospace ManufacturingCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringClient Services & Account ManagementCriminal LawEnergy Policy & RegulationIndustrial & Mechanical EngineeringNuclear EnergyProduction & Operations ManagementRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BAE System

BP Plc

Birmingham law society

Brodies LLP

GSK

Harper Macleod LLP

University of Portsmouth

Wood

Why Study BSc (Hons), MChem Forensic & Analytical Chemistry at University of Strathclyde

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Strathclyde in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc (Hons), MChem Forensic & Analytical Chemistry at University of Strathclyde

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Royal Society of Chemistry.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English language requirements include a Duolingo overall score of 115 or IELTS overall score of 6.0, among other specific scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Make sure to fulfill these requirements to qualify for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as forensic analysts, analytical chemists, toxicologists, quality control analysts, and laboratory technicians.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course is offered in partnership with the Strathclyde Centre for Forensic Science and is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Students learn transferable skills such as report writing and problem-solving, and can study at a European university for a year.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc (Hons), MChem Forensic & Analytical Chemistry course has an intake in September each year. Be sure to check specific application deadlines to ensure you apply on time.
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