University of York

What you'll study

This four-year integrated master's provides a comprehensive chemistry curriculum with specialist modules and a sustained focus on green and sustainable principles. The programme balances core topics in inorganic, organic and physical chemistry with applied subjects such as catalysis, process chemistry and analytical methods, and adds dedicated modules on green synthesis, life-cycle assessment, solvent selection, waste minimisation and industrial process design.

• Year 1–2: foundational chemistry (atomic and molecular structure, thermodynamics, kinetics, organic mechanisms), practical laboratory skills, mathematics for chemists and introduction to green concepts such as atom economy and solvent choice.
• Year 3: advanced and applied topics (heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis, reaction engineering, advanced analytical techniques, computational chemistry) with options to take specialist green chemistry modules and undertake a substantive laboratory project.
• Year 4 (M-level): master's research project focused on a green chemistry topic, advanced taught modules (for example sustainable process design, industrial scale-up, environmental assessment and regulatory aspects) and training in transferable research skills, scientific communication and professional practice.

Teaching is research-led and delivered through lectures, small-group tutorials, laboratory practicals, workshop sessions and project supervision. Assessment combines exams, coursework, laboratory reports, oral presentations and a dissertation or research portfolio.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants hold strong secondary-school qualifications in chemistry and supporting sciences or mathematics. Offers are usually made to students with high grades at A‑level or equivalent, including Chemistry and another science or Mathematics. The programme also accepts international qualifications (for example IB or equivalent national diplomas), and applicants with relevant foundation years, access diplomas or industrial experience are considered. All applicants should demonstrate strong numerical and laboratory skills and an aptitude for independent project work.

Mature applicants and those with vocational qualifications should include evidence of recent study or relevant work experience in chemistry or a related area. English language requirements apply for applicants whose first language is not English.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for careers addressing sustainability challenges across chemical industries. Typical destinations include research and development roles in pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals and agrochemicals; process chemistry and scale-up positions in manufacturing; roles in catalysis and materials development; environmental and sustainability consultancy; regulatory and quality assurance positions; and roles in energy and renewable chemicals.

The integrated master's also provides a strong platform for doctoral study and academic research, and for careers in public policy, intellectual property, or science communication where deep technical knowledge of green chemistry is valued.

Why study at University of York

The University of York combines strong research expertise in sustainable chemistry with hands-on laboratory training and industry engagement. York hosts centres and research groups working on catalysis, green synthesis and sustainable materials, offering students opportunities to undertake substantial research projects supervised by active researchers.

Students benefit from well-equipped teaching and research laboratories, links with regional and national chemical industries, and careers support tailored to STEM disciplines. The department emphasises transferable skills, safe laboratory practice and professional development, preparing graduates to take leading roles in sectors where greener chemical processes are becoming essential.