University of York

What you'll study

The programme delivers core topics in organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry across three years, taught through lectures, laboratory classes, tutorials and small‑group project work. From the first year you will build practical skills in laboratory safety, experimental design and chemical analysis, and you will develop mathematical and computational techniques used to interpret chemical data.

• Core modules typically cover molecular structure and bonding, thermodynamics and kinetics, spectroscopy and structure determination, reaction mechanisms, and contemporary analytical methods (e.g. chromatography, mass spectrometry, NMR).
• Green chemistry and sustainability modules introduce principles of atom economy, catalysis, solvent selection, waste minimisation, renewable feedstocks and life‑cycle assessment, and explore how these ideas are applied in industrial and academic contexts.
• Advanced topics frequently include sustainable catalysis, polymer and materials chemistry, energy and storage materials, computational chemistry methods, and environmental and regulatory aspects of chemical manufacture.
• Final-year project gives you the opportunity to undertake an independent laboratory or literature‑based research project under academic supervision, often with a sustainability theme or in collaboration with research groups working on green chemistry.

Teaching is research‑led and emphasises transferable skills such as data analysis, scientific communication and teamwork. Practical laboratory experience is a major component of the degree, with assessed lab reports and practical examinations throughout the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong chemistry knowledge and evidence of ability to study science at degree level. Typical entry routes include A‑levels, BTEC diplomas, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers and international qualifications. You will normally be expected to have chemistry at an advanced level; many successful applicants also have mathematics or another science subject to A‑level/advanced level.

• Successful applicants should demonstrate competence in practical chemistry and numeracy and be able to meet any university requirements for English language where applicable.
• Admissions tutors may consider a combination of qualifications, relevant experience, personal statements and references. Those with non‑standard backgrounds are encouraged to contact the admissions team to discuss suitability and evidence of preparation for degree study.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a wide range of careers in chemistry and sustainability. The combination of core chemical training and green‑principles expertise is attractive to employers in chemical and pharmaceutical industries, environmental consultancies and energy companies.

• Common career destinations include research and development, process chemistry, analytical and quality control laboratories, materials and polymer industries, and regulatory or environmental compliance roles.
• Opportunities also exist in related areas such as patent and technical advisory work, science communication, teaching, and roles in policy or sustainability management for private and public sector organisations.
• Many graduates go on to further study at master’s or doctoral level, pursuing specialised research in catalysis, renewable materials, computational chemistry or environmental assessment.

Why study at University of York

The University of York has a strong tradition of research‑led teaching in chemical sciences and a focus on interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability. The department provides modern laboratory facilities, supportive teaching groups and a curriculum that integrates contemporary research into undergraduate learning.

• Students benefit from access to research-active staff working on sustainable chemistry, catalysis, materials and analytical methods, providing opportunities for topical final projects and collaborations.
• York’s links with industry, research centres and the regional science and technology ecosystem create routes to internships and project partnerships that enhance employability.
• The campus and student support services are designed to help students develop academic, professional and practical laboratory skills needed for careers in chemistry and sustainability.