MChem, BSc Medicinal Chemistry with Study Abroad

Programme overview

Entry requirements

Entry Requirements are available on the Course Search entry

Programme specification

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.

Year 1

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
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Compulsory Modules

This information is applicable to students who entered from or after 2024/25: Students 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

Optional Modules

Students 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 B 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)

Discovery Modules

Or option B:
Students will be required to study 10 credits of discovery modules.

Year 2

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable

Compulsory Modules

This information is applicable to students who entered from or after 2024/25: Students will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

Code	Title	Credits	Semester	Pass for Progression
CHEM2131	Chemical Kinetics and Thermodynamics	10	Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)
CHEM2192	Molecular Signatures: Spectroscopy and Chromatography	10	Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)
CHEM2212	Organometallics: from bonding to catalysis	10	Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)
CHEM2293	Specialisms in Chemical Science	10	Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)
CHEM2321	Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions and the Science of Life	20	Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)
CHEM2342	Chemical Pharmacology and Drug Design	20	Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)
CHEM2452	Practical, Professional and Research skills for Medicinal Chemists	40	Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)	PFP

Optional Modules

Discovery Modules

Year 3

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable

Compulsory Modules

Students will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

Code	Title	Credits	Semester	Pass for Progression
CHEM9304	Integrated Year Abroad: International	120	Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)	PFP

Discovery Modules

Year 4

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
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Compulsory Modules

Students will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

Code	Title	Credits	Semester	Pass for Progression
CHEM5460M	Laboratory-based Project Work 6M	60	Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)	PFP
CHEM5601M	Advanced Topics in Medicinal Chemistry 60 Credit	60	Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)

Students will be required to pass CHEM5460M.

Discovery Modules

Year 5

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable

Last updated: 15/08/2025 16:47:24

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