Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

MChem 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 MChem Chemistry at Heriot-Watt University UK is your gateway to understanding and shaping the molecular world, preparing you for impactful careers in sectors ranging from pharmaceuticals to materials science. This rigorous undergraduate degree equips you with a deep understanding of chemical principles, including chemical reactivity, atomic and molecular structure, chemical thermodynamics, and organic reactions. You will develop the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to address complex scientific challenges, making this programme ideal for aspiring chemists who are passionate about discovery and innovation in a dynamic scientific landscape. This qualification provides a strong foundation for further study or a professional career.

This full-time, on-campus programme is studied over five years, offering a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with extensive laboratory work. You will explore specialist pathways in areas such as pharmaceutical chemistry, computational chemistry, biology, or materials and nanoscience, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests. Throughout your degree, you will engage in practical projects and research, culminating in an MChem Extended Research Project in your final year. You will graduate with advanced practical abilities, robust theoretical knowledge, and the confidence to pursue diverse roles in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and related industries, or in further academic research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MChem program provides a comprehensive exploration of chemistry, starting with foundational principles and progressing through advanced topics in inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. Students will delve into areas such as chemical reactivity, bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, and spectroscopy. The curriculum also incorporates essential mathematical and computational skills, alongside opportunities for specialization through elective modules in related scientific disciplines and a significant research project in the final year.

1 Year 1

Principles of Chemistry Compulsory
Chemical Applications 1 Compulsory
Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists 1 Compulsory
Introductory Biology 1 Elective
Mechanics, Fields and Forces Elective
Chemical Reactivity Compulsory
Chemical Applications 2 Compulsory
Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists 2 Compulsory
Introductory Biology 2 Elective
Waves and Matter Elective

2 Year 2

Atomic & Molecular Structure & Chemical Bonding Compulsory
Organic Structural Identification, Stereochemistry & Reaction Mechanisms Compulsory
Chemical Thermodynamics & Introductory Chemical Kinetics Compulsory
Metabolism in Human Nutrition Elective
Mechanics, Fields and Forces Elective
Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists 3 Elective
Chemistry of the Elements Compulsory
Synthesis in Organic Chemistry Compulsory
Atomic & Molecular Spectroscopy Compulsory
Cell and Molecular Biology Elective
Waves and Matter Elective
Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists 4 Elective
Statistics for Science Elective
Mathematical Modelling for Chemical Engineers Elective

3 Year 3

Organometallic Chemistry & Multinuclear NMR Spectroscopy Compulsory
Organic Reactions 1 Compulsory
Applications of Chemical Kinetics Compulsory
Molecular biology Elective
Introduction to Pharmaceutical Chemistry Elective
Chemistry of Materials Elective
Software Development 1 Elective
Chemical Structure Compulsory
Organic Reactions 2 Compulsory
Molecules to Systems Compulsory
Introduction to Microbiology Elective
Analytical Chemistry Elective
Principles of Drug Discovery & Development Elective
Solid State Physics Elective
Software Development 2 Elective

4 Year 4

Advanced Inorganic Chemistry (S1) Compulsory
Advanced Organic Chemistry (S1) Compulsory
Advanced Physical Chemistry (S1) Compulsory
Microstructures & Properties of Materials Elective
Advanced Synthesis with Pharmaceutical Applications Elective
Physical Mathematics 1 Elective
Advanced Inorganic Chemistry (S2) Compulsory
Advanced Organic Chemistry (S2) Compulsory
Advanced Physical Chemistry (S2) Compulsory
Human Diseases and Therapeutic Interventions Elective
Functional Inorganic Materials Elective
Physical Mathematics 2 Elective

5 Year 5

MChem Extended Research Project (S1) Compulsory
Computer Simulations of Molecules Compulsory
Microstructures & Properties of Materials Elective
Advanced Synthesis with Pharmaceutical Applications Elective
Quantum Theory & Solid State Elective
Sustainable Development and Engineering Management Elective
Beverage Microbiology and Biochemistry Elective
Programming Languages Elective
Introduction to Data Structures & Algorithms Elective
MChem Extended Research Project (S2) Compulsory
Human Diseases and Therapeutic Interventions Elective
Functional Inorganic Materials Elective
Laboratory Regulation and Project Management Elective
Biophysics Elective
Chemistry of Food Elective
Quantum Devices Elective
Quantum Theory and Spectroscopy Elective
Data Structures and Algorithms Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

12% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,844.00 USD 34,884.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,884.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,884.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,884.00
Fifth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,884.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 170,383.00 USD 174,423.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 503.00 - USD 2,667.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Edinburgh Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Drug Discovery & ResearchMedia Planning & BuyingMedical Devices & DiagnosticsNetworking & Internet ServicesPerformance & Growth MarketingPharmaceutical ManufacturingSales & Medical AffairsSocial Media & Community ManagementSoftware Development & EngineeringSupply Chain & Food Logistics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Arup

Charles River Laboratories

Diageo

Why Study MChem Chemistry at Heriot Watt University UK

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Heriot Watt University UK 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 MChem Chemistry at Heriot Watt University UK

Can I work while studying?

Students enrolled 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.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For non-native speakers, the TOEFL requirement includes an overall score of 79, with specific minimums in listening (17) and speaking (20). Alternatively, an IELTS overall score of 6.0 or a PTE overall score of 63 is also acceptable.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as pharmaceutical chemists, analytical scientists, lab technicians, quality control analysts, and research scientists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MChem Chemistry program features specialist pathways like pharmaceutical chemistry and computational chemistry. You'll gain a strong foundation in topics such as atomic structure and chemical thermodynamics, along with practical laboratory experience.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MChem Chemistry program starts in September each year. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place.
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