University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme starts with a foundation year that develops core skills in chemistry, mathematics and laboratory practice, alongside academic study skills and introductory professional development. Successful completion of the foundation year leads into the three-year BSc Chemistry programme, which covers the fundamental branches of the subject and practical laboratory training.

• Foundation year: study skills for higher education; basic and introductory chemistry (atomic structure, bonding, organic functional groups); mathematics for chemists; practical laboratory techniques; IT and data handling; laboratory safety and good practice.
• Year 1 (Level H): introductory inorganic, organic and physical chemistry; quantitative chemistry; practical laboratory classes developing basic synthetic and analytical skills; mathematics for chemistry; chemical spectroscopy basics.
• Year 2 (Level I): deeper study of physical chemistry (thermodynamics, kinetics), analytical and instrumental methods (chromatography, spectroscopy), synthetic organic chemistry and inorganic materials chemistry; laboratory modules emphasising multi-step synthesis, purification and quantitative analysis; optional modules such as biochemistry, environmental chemistry or materials chemistry.
• Final year (Level M): advanced topics in modern chemistry, specialised optional modules (for example medicinal chemistry, solid-state chemistry, catalysis, advanced spectroscopy), and an extended independent research project conducted under academic supervision. Emphasis is placed on research skills, data analysis, scientific communication and professional development.

Entry requirements

The foundation year is intended for applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements for direct entry to the three-year chemistry degree. Typical applicants include students who lack the necessary science A-levels, those with relevant vocational qualifications, and mature learners. Entry generally requires a recognised secondary school leaving qualification or an equivalent qualification demonstrating suitability for university study.

• Academic requirements are flexible and consider a combination of qualifications and experience; applicants are assessed on their prior learning and potential to benefit from the course.
• GCSE-level English language and mathematics are commonly expected; applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent.
• Applicants may be invited for interview or to provide a personal statement outlining their motivation and any relevant experience in science or laboratory work.

Career prospects

Graduates with a chemistry degree from the University of Leicester go on to a wide range of careers across industry, government and academia. The programme provides strong practical and analytical skills valued by employers.

• Chemical and pharmaceutical industry roles, including research and development, quality control, formulation and production chemistry.
• Analytical and materials science positions in sectors such as energy, advanced materials and environmental monitoring.
• Forensic science and public-sector laboratories, and careers in regulatory science and chemical safety.
• Further study and research (MSc, PhD) leading to academic or industrial research careers; teaching through a postgraduate teacher training route; careers in patent law, science communication, sales and consultancy.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers a supportive learning environment and well-equipped teaching and research laboratories where students gain hands-on experience with modern analytical instruments. The chemistry department has active research groups across areas such as molecular and materials chemistry, analytical science and chemical biology, providing opportunities for student projects supervised by research-active staff.

• Structured progression from the foundation year into the full chemistry degree, with tailored academic support and personal tutoring to help transition into degree-level study.
• Access to a range of practical training, instrumentation and computing resources, and opportunities to undertake substantial independent research projects in the final year.
• Strong links with regional and national employers, and careers and employability support to help secure placements, internships and graduate roles.
• A campus-based student experience with centralised support services for wellbeing, study skills and careers guidance to support successful progression and graduate outcomes.