2026/27 Undergraduate Programme Catalogue

MChem, BSc Chemistry with Artificial Intelligence

Programme overview

Programme code
MCBS-CHEM/AI
UCAS code
F115
Duration
4 Years
Method of Attendance
Full Time
Programme manager
Dr Stefan Auer
Contact address
S.Auer@leeds.ac.uk
Total credits
480
School/Unit responsible for the parenting of students and programme
Chemistry
Examination board through which the programme will be considered
Chemistry
Relevant QAA Subject Benchmark Groups
Chemistry (https://www.qaa.ac.uk/the-quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements/chemistry#)

Entry requirements

Programme specification

Chemistry is a central science, at the core of everything we can see, smell, taste and touch around us. From energy to the environment, groundbreaking medicine to everyday cleaning products, chemistry is integral to all aspects of our lives - placing chemical scientists at the forefront of delivering vital solutions to global challenges such as climate change, sustainability and health.

In your first two years, you will study the fundamental concepts and principles that underpin chemistry, while developing essential laboratory, analytical and transferable skills including teamwork, problem‑solving and data analysis. Throughout, you’ll be exposed to cutting‑edge research from our globally recognised research groups.

Your third year (or following your placement) builds on this foundation, giving you access to a wide range of optional modules - including areas such as ethics and business - allowing you to tailor your degree to your interests. You will also have the opportunity to apply for industrial experience between years 2 and 3 or between years 3 and 4, or alternatively spend a year studying chemistry at one of our overseas partner universities.

In your final year, you’ll undertake a substantial research project embedded within one of our internationally recognised research groups. This gives you the opportunity to follow your interests, explore a topic at the forefront of modern chemistry and further develop key transferable skills such as independent working, communication and time management.

Across the programme, you’ll discover how chemistry shapes our world through a wide range of topics - from quantum mechanics to atmospheric chemistry, from designing medicinal drugs to creating new organic molecules. The breadth of the curriculum enables you to refine your interests and explore the areas that inspire you most.

Alongside this strong chemical foundation, AI‑driven approaches are transforming the landscape of chemical research. These technologies are accelerating drug discovery, enabling the design of eco‑friendly materials and optimising industrial processes with unprecedented speed and precision. This programme will teach you how to harness computational tools to analyse complex chemical data, predict molecular behaviour and automate experiments - paving the way for breakthroughs in pharmaceuticals, energy and environmental sustainability.

You’ll follow a rigorous curriculum that blends core chemistry modules with AI‑focused coursework. In our bespoke laboratory modules, you’ll gain hands‑on experience in both experimental chemistry and AI‑powered research techniques, developing the practical and computational skills needed for the future of scientific innovation.

Your journey culminates in a final‑year research project dedicated to designing new digital chemistry approaches. Working within internationally recognised research groups, you’ll apply AI to tackle real‑world chemical challenges. Step into the future of science - where chemistry meets AI to shape a smarter, more sustainable world.

Year 1

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

Compulsory Modules

Students will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

CodeTitleCreditsSemesterPass for Progression
CHEM1102Chemistry in Action: Atoms, Molecules, Matter10Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)
CHEM1204Fundamental Organic Chemistry for Biology & Synthesis10Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)
CHEM1205Chemistry of the Material World10Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)
CHEM1302Introduction to Modern Chemistry20Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)
CHEM1373Professional Skills for Chemistry with AI20Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)
CHEM1402Introduction to Practical Chemistry and Research Skills40Semesters 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 C in A level maths or equivalent, you must take the following module:

CodeTitleCreditsSemesterPass for Progression
NATS1180Mathematics for Scientists10Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)

Or option B:

CodeTitleCreditsSemesterPass for Progression
PHAS1700Artificial Intelligence for Scientists10Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)

Year 2

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

Full module details for year 2 are not yet available. Full details will be provided prior to module enrolment for 2027/28.

Compulsory Modules

Students will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

CodeTitleCreditsSemesterPass for Progression
CHEM2112Chemistry of Materials: what they are and how we know10Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)
CHEM2192Molecular Signatures: Spectroscopy and Chromatography10Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)
CHEM2212Organometallics: from bonding to catalysis10Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)
CHEM2321Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions and the Science of Life20Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)
CHEM2331Molecules, Energy, Quanta and Change20Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)

PHAS2710, Foundations of AI: Machine Learning for Scientists, 20cr, S3

Year 3

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

Compulsory Modules

Students will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

CodeTitleCreditsSemesterPass for Progression
CHEM3481Project and Research Skills40Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)

Optional Modules

Full module details for year 3 are not yet available. Full details will be provided prior to module enrolment for 2028/29.

Students will be required to study 80 credits from the following optional modules:

CodeTitleCreditsSemesterPass for Progression
CHEM3312Topics in Inorganic and Materials Chemistry20Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)
CHEM3320Topics in Organic, Bioorganic and Interdisciplinary Chemistry20Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)
CHEM3330Topics in Physical, Theoretical and Environmental Chemistry20Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)

PHAS3700, Advanced AI: Deep Learning for Scientists, 20cr, S3

Year 4

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

Full module details for level 5M are not yet available. Full details will be provided prior to module enrolment for 2029/30.

Compulsory Modules

Students will be required to study the following compulsory modules:

CodeTitleCreditsSemesterPass for Progression
CHEM5600MAdvanced Topics in Chemistry 60 Credit60Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)
CHEM5700MAdvanced Practical, Professional and Research Skills for Chemists30 

CHEM5461M, Integrated Masters Research Project, 60cr, S3
PHAS5700M, Advanced Topics in AI, 15cr, S2

Last updated: 22/05/2026 16:40:45

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team