Chemistry plays an important role in our society. It is central to finding sustainable solutions to global problems. This includes developing new drugs and vaccines, researching clean energy resources, and feeding a growing population.
You'll be taught by experts who will feed your curiosity for this exciting subject. You may even recognise some of our staff from the popular Periodic Videos YouTube channel.
You'll study all the key areas of chemistry, including organic, inorganic and physical chemistry. You can also choose to explore the links between chemistry, physics and biology. Optional modules allow you to tailor your degree to your own interests.
Opportunities to study green chemistry
Green and sustainable chemistry is a key research interest here at the University of Nottingham. We have active research in using chemistry as a tool to tackle global challenges. These challenges include decreasing our reliance on fossil fuels for power generation and how to develop next generation materials that impact batteries and solar panels. On this degree, you can study optional modules in green and sustainable chemistry. These modules will give you an understanding of how to make chemical processes more environmentally friendly, and how to use chemistry to tackle environmental challenges.
The University of Nottingham is home to the GSK Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry. Opened in 2017, it is designed to offset the carbon emissions of the active use and research within the building through features such as wind-capturing chimneys, solar panels and a grass roof.
Opportunities to study medicinal chemistry
Chemistry is key to understanding drugs and treating illnesses. You can choose to study modules that cover medicinal chemistry and drug development throughout your degree. In these optional modules, you’ll learn about drug delivery, metabolism and targeting and drug structures.
Careers and employability
The University of Nottingham is a top 10 university for employability* A degree in chemistry will prepare you for a wide range of careers. You’ll develop the academic and practical skills for a career in industry, whether that be in pharmaceutical, petrochemical, cosmetics or others. You’ll also develop transferable skills such as problem-solving, numeracy and data analysis. These are desired by other industries including finance, media, and management.
*High-Fliers Graduate Market 2021
There is flexibility to transfer between most chemistry degrees during the first year.