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.
You'll spend the third year of your degree undertaking a paid 9-12 month industrial placement, in a role which allows you to further develop your understanding of an area of medicinal chemistry (or chemistry) and to complete a project appropriate to your programme. The placement will enable you to develop a range of skills relevant to your future career. You’ll continue to build upon your knowledge across the breadth of chemistry by pursuing distance learning.
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 closely aligned 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]
View Timetable
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 |
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:
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NATS1180 | Mathematics for Scientists | 10 | Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) |
Or option B: Students can take 10 credits of discovery modules.
(For students entering from September 2024 onwards)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
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 |
(For students entering from September 2024 onwards)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
Students will be required to study the following compulsory module:
| Code | Title | Credits | Semester | Pass for Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM3302 | Distance Learning for Year in Industry | 30 | Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) | |
| CHEM8101 | Industrial Placement for Integrated Masters Students | 90 | Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) | PFP |
(For students entering from September 2024 onwards)
[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable
This level 5M module information is specific to students who entered the programme from September 2024.
Last updated: 19/05/2026 12:04:09
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