The information on this page is accurate for students entering the programme from September 2024. For students who entered the programme before September 2024, you can find the details of your programme: MChem, BSc Medicinal Chemistry
Medicinal chemistry is the science of designing and synthesising new medicines. It is a highly interdisciplinary subject combining chemistry with elements of pharmacology, biochemistry, structural and cellular biology. Whilst modern medicines are diverse in size and function, medicinal chemists focus on how to develop small molecules (usually carbon-based organic compounds decorated with functional groups) into drug molecules using their knowledge of chemistry, and in particular organic chemistry. Such scientists are highly valuable in delivering innovative medicines to treat and prevent global pandemics and other healthcare challenges.
In your first two years you will study the fundamental concepts and principles that underpin medicinal chemistry, including a shared first year with the chemistry programme, subsequently specialising in year two. During these years you will develop laboratory skills and a wide range of graduate and transferable skills like teamwork and data analysis. You’ll also be exposed to the latest research from our globally-recognized research groups.
In your third year you will continue to build on your knowledge of chemistry and medicinal chemistry whilst having access to a range of options including ethics and business within the degree programme. You will have the option to apply for industrial experience between years 2 and 3 or between years 3 and 4. Alternatively, you may spend your third year studying medicinal chemistry at one of our overseas partner Universities.
In your final year you’ll undertake a significant research project, embedded in one of our internationally recognized research groups. This allows you to follow your interests and investigate a topic at the cutting edge of medicinal chemistry (or a related topic appropriate to your programme), as well as further develop transferable skills such as working independently, communication and time management.
(For students entering from September 2024 onwards)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
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Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM1102 | Chemistry in Action: Atoms, Molecules, Matter | 10 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | |
| CHEM1204 | Fundamental Organic Chemistry for Biology & Synthesis | 10 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| CHEM1205 | Chemistry of the Material World | 10 | Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) | |
| CHEM1302 | Introduction to Modern Chemistry | 20 | Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) | |
| CHEM1303 | Chemistry and Chemists for a Sustainable Future | 20 | Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) | |
| CHEM1402 | Introduction to Practical Chemistry and Research Skills | 40 | Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) | PFP |
Candidates will be required to study a further 10 credits from the following:
Option A:
For students without A level maths or equivalent, or with a grade less than C in A level maths or equivalent, you must take the following module
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NATS1180 | Mathematics for Scientists | 10 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) |
Or option B:
Candidates will be required to study 10 credits of discovery modules.
(For students entering from September 2024 onwards)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
We are currently refreshing our courses to make sure students have the best possible experience. Where there is no module code link below the full module details are not yet available. Before you are required to enrol on a module full details will be provided.
Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules: - Organometallics: from Bonding to Catalysis - 10 credits - Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions and the Science of Life - 20 credits - Chemical Pharmacology & Drug Design - 20 credits - Practical, Professional and Research skills for Medicinal Chemists - 40 credits - Molecular Signatures: Spectroscopy and Chromatography - 10 credits - Specialisms in Chemical Science - 10 credits
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM2131 | Chemical Kinetics and Thermodynamics | 10 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) |
(For students entering from September 2024 onwards)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
We are currently refreshing our courses to make sure students have the best possible experience. Where there is no module code link below the full module details are not yet available. Before you are required to enrol on a module full details will be provided.
Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules: - Project and Research Skills – 20 credits - Extended Topics in Organic, Bioorganic and Interdisciplinary Chemistry – 30 credits - Topics in Inorganic and Materials Chemistry – 20 credits - Medicinal Chemistry in Drug Development – 10 credits - Quantum Mechanics and Bonding – 10 credits
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM3424 | Laboratory Work for Medicinal Chemists (2M) | 20 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | PFP |
Candidates will be required to study 10 credits from the following optional modules:
- Chemistry in the Real World – 10 credits
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM3212 | Big Data, Big Science | 10 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) | |
| CHEM3621 | Ethical Issues in Chemistry | 10 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) |
(For students entering from September 2024 onwards)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
We are currently refreshing our courses to make sure students have the best possible experience. Where there is no module code link below the full module details are not yet available. Before you are required to enrol on a module full details will be provided.
Candidates will be required to study the following compulsory modules: - Integrated Masters Research project - 60 credits
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM5601M | Advanced Topics in Medicinal Chemistry 60 Credit | 60 | Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) |
(For students entering from September 2024 onwards)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
Last updated: 16/05/2024 14:01:28
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team