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    MSc
    2025 start September 

    Chemistry

    School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science

    Explore the topics at the cutting edge of chemistry that are most important to you, and develop the practical skills needed for a career in chemistry.
    Two chemistry students in lab using equipment

    Course description

    Our Chemistry MSc gives you the freedom to choose from a wide-range of cutting-edge modules across organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry. From catalysis and the chemistry of light to theoretical chemistry and technologies for sustainability, our flexible Masters course allows you to focus on the topics that are most important to you.

    You’ll spend one-third of your time working on your own research project in the lab, where our researchers will teach you advanced research skills. You’ll choose a research area to focus on and be based in one of our world-class research groups, where you’ll develop skills and expertise to help you stand out in the graduate job market.

    Modules

    A selection of modules is available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Core modules:

    Research, Presentation and Professional Skills

    This module  aims to prepare students to become professional scientific researchers ready to conduct a research project.  Students will be taught how to retrieve and critically assess the existing literature on a particular research topic and to communicate this as a scientific review. They will learn about the attributes of an ethical researcher, scientific method and how to undertake research safely and responsibly and how to manage data. In addition, students will acquire professional skills relevant to their future employability and learn how to present scientific information. Students will undertake a training needs analysis supported by an experienced researcher so that they can take charge of their own development. This will allow them to tailor their subsequent training to the project they are about to undertake and to their wider individual professional and researcher development. On completion of the module students will have produced a portfolio of work that will form the  foundations of their training as a professional researcher.

    30 credits
    Chemistry Projects

    This module is composed of open ended project work. The two projects build on experimental skills gained at undergraduate level, and is part of the final development of laboratory work in preparation for the research project. The teaching takes the form of longer project style practical sessions where students work as part of a group, and will design, execute, analyse and present work on a topic guided by an experimental manager.

    30 credits
    Chemistry Research Project

    This module is the major research project associated with the Masters programmes in Chemistry. Students are trained in research methodology, and undertake a project in the research laboratory of a member of academic staff. Projects use state-of-the-art research facilities. Students undertake a throrough literature search, give a research talk, receive a viva, and present a thesis.

    60 credits

    Optional modules:

    A student will take 60 credits (four modules) from this group.

    Methods and Models in Theoretical Chemistry

    The principles of theoretical chemistry can explain and predict chemical phenomena across all the main branches of chemistry (organic, inorganic, physical, analytical), and can shed light on molecular aspects of physics and biology. A wide range of methods and models are covered, including density functional theory, coupled cluster, time-dependent quantum mechanics, and more. Students are taught to assess these methods and models' suitability for different tasks, and put the theory into practice by using them to interpret chemical phenomena in hands-on projects.

    15 credits
    Pharmacology, Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Design

    The discovery and development of new drugs requires a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and toxicology. In this module, students learn about these areas as they build on their organic and medicinal chemistry knowledge from earlier in their degrees. It covers concepts including pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and basic toxicology, and looks in detail at strategies for optimising the pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic properties of drugs. There is also a focus on computing technologies, including computer-aided drug design tools and quantitative structure:activity relationship models. Students learn about the fundamental chemistry behind the synthesis of specific drugs throughout the module.

    15 credits
    Technologies for Sustainability

    Our current manufacturing technologies for chemicals, plastics and construction materials, are carbon intensive technologies and in order to maintain our living standards we need to decarbonise those technologies. In order to achieve this overarching aim, we need to make better use of fossil-based and renewable resources, and move towards a circular economy. Topics include the current status of the industry, life-cycle analysis, non-fossil fuel and feedstocks, and reuse reforming and recycling. This will be focused to the following main areas: Fine chemicals and commodities. This module will discuss the current state-of-the-art of fine chemicals and commodities manufacturing and how to minimize their impact to the environment. Plastic and polymers. Plastic waste is a growing problem and this course will discuss the challenges associated with current plastics, what the alternatives are and whether they will be feasible.

    15 credits
    Current Topics in Industrial Catalysis

    Catalysis either in its homogeneous or heterogeneous forms is a pillar for the chemical industry, where catalysis is used to produce bulk chemicals at large scales and fine chemicals at smaller ones. This module explains the principles as well as the applications of heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis by analysing some of the most economically important catalytic reactions. It covers the chemical basis of these processes, and the advantages and disadvantages of heterogeneous and homogeneous systems including sustainability considerations.  Reaction mechanisms and the role of the metal centre, and fundamental physical processes such as adsorption and reaction kinetics, will be discussed in detail, together with the applications of these concepts for scale up purposes. Concepts are illustrated by analysing, in detail, catalytic reactions including hydrogenation, oxidation, carbonylation and polymerisation.

    15 credits
    Current Topics in Chemistry of Light

    Understanding processes caused by light is key in chemistry, physics, biology and engineering, and has recently led to many major scientific breakthroughs. This course explains how light and matter interact in molecules, nanostructures and materials. It will explain photoinduced electron and energy transfer - essential processes in nature and everyday life - using examples of natural and artificial photosynthesis. Modern techniques for studying light-induced processes, on time-scales from seconds to femtoseconds, are also covered. More specifically, each spectroscopic technique covered will be described in terms of the physical concepts on which it is based, the information it helps acquire, and the practical concerns associated with it such as resolution, availability, costs, etc. The goal is to bring the students to appreciate the main advantages and constraints of each technique so that they can start developing their own research plan to answer any given research questions.

    The theory grounding light-matter interactions is taught in the context that will be relevant to modern applications in photocatalysis, photonics and optoelectronics, solar energy conversion, phototherapy, imaging, and other light-induced processes in medicine.

    15 credits
    Current Topics in Advanced Materials Chemistry

    Materials chemistry is at the heart of technological solutions to problems that society faces in energy, health care, transport and the environment. This module will focus on functional materials based on supramolecular assembly from molecular components. Students will learn about design strategies, molecular properties, characterisation and material function, and use concepts from coordination chemistry, organic chemistry and solid-state chemistry. The role of materials properties in applications such as sensing, molecular separations, gas adsorption, catalysis, drug delivery, propulsion and gas generation will be discussed in the context of providing technological solutions.

    15 credits
    Current Topics in Biophysical Chemistry and Biophysics

    The physical properties of biological molecules can be studied by applying  and combining the basic theories and techniques of physical and biological chemistry.  The structures, functions and interactions of biomolecules in solution can be explained and determined by thermodynamics concepts and advanced spectroscopic measurements. As well as learning about methods for analysing  the properties of ensembles of many biomolecules, students will learn how to perform and interpret measurements on single biomolecules. The lecture  course will include examples of  biophysical approaches to studying protein and nucleic acid structures and mechanisms of DNA damage recognition. In addition, the development of molecules for diagnostics, therapeutics and theranostics will be examined. 

    15 credits
    Current Topics in Catalysis and Asymmetric Synthesis

    Chemists' ability to synthesise organic molecules with defined stereochemistry is the backbone of many useful applications, from medicines to new materials. Modern methods of organic synthesis rely on sophisticated and efficient chemical reactions that create exquisite levels of functional group selectivity and stereochemical control. This module will explain the cutting edge processes that achieve these objectives, in the context of catalysis and stereoselective synthesis. There is a focus on transformations that are promoted by a sub-stoichiometric amount of catalyst. Concepts behind controlling stereochemistry in important synthetic chemical reactions will also be explained. From the generation of new medicines to the creation of new materials, chemists' ability to synthesise molecules with defined stereochemistry is of critical importance. Stereochemical control, exquisite functional group selectivity,  high yield and efficiency are the touchstones of modern organic chemistry. This module will review the cutting edge methods that are used to achieve stereochemical control and catalysis in organic reactions. Students will study transformations that are promoted by a sub-stoichiometric amount of catalyst. Emphasis will be placed on explaining the concepts behind controlling stereochemistry in important chemical reactions for modern organic chemistry.

    15 credits

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Open days

    An open day gives you the best opportunity to hear first-hand from our current students and staff about our courses.
    Open days and campus tours

    Duration

    1 year full-time

    Teaching

    Our Chemistry MSc is taught by our academics and research experts in a multi-disciplinary approach. You’ll develop your expertise in a range of settings, including lectures, group workshops, group laboratory practicals, and individual research projects.

    You’ll typically spend around 12 weeks working on an individual research project alongside PhD students and experienced postdoctoral researchers. Here you’ll gain first-hand experience as a researcher, and have access to the outstanding research facilities at the University of Sheffield.

    Assessment

    You’ll be assessed through coursework, laboratory reports, a dissertation and a viva.

    Our assessment methods are designed to support the achievement of learning outcomes and develop your professional skills. Regular feedback is provided, so you can understand your own development throughout the course.

    Your career

    Our Chemistry MSc graduates have the advanced research skills that employers value in a variety of careers. Major employers of our chemistry graduates include consumer goods firms such as Unilever and Reckitt, where chemists make many of the products you see on supermarket shelves, and pharmaceutical companies such as AstraZeneca and GSK, where chemists develop novel medications. Our graduates also go on to synthesise the products and materials behind industrial-scale manufacturing, in roles at chemical companies such as Croda and Dow Chemicals.

    Our Chemistry MSc  is also excellent training for a PhD in chemistry. Our graduates have secured postgraduate research positions at many of the world's top 100 universities.

    School

    School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

    The Soft Matter Analytical Laboratory

    The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is leading the way with groundbreaking research and innovative teaching. 

    Our chemistry researchers are focusing on some of society’s most pressing challenges, from antimicrobial resistance to environmental sustainability. 

    In the Research Excellence Framework 2021, 95 percent of our chemistry research was rated in the highest two categories as world-leading or internationally excellent.

    We collaborate closely with industry to find solutions and develop innovative new technologies. Many of our academics bring first-hand industrial and business experience to their teaching, with many involved in current spin-out companies and collaboration with industrial partners.

    We’re home to state-of-the-art chemistry laboratories and several multi-million pound materials science facilities. These include, the Lord Porter Ultrafast Laser Spectroscopy Laboratory, which is used in studies ranging from energy transport in molecules and materials to artificial photosynthesis; the Soft Matter Analytical Laboratory, where scientists can study samples that are 100 times smaller than a human hair; and an array of state-of-the-art instrumentation in the Sheffield Surface Analysis Centre.

    Four Nobel Prize winners have been Sheffield chemistry students or researchers, and several of our academics have been named Fellows of the Royal Society or been awarded prizes from other prestigious organisations such as the Royal Society of Chemistry

    Entry requirements

    Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in a relevant subject.

    Subject requirements

    We accept degrees in the following subject areas: 

    • Chemistry

    NB: We cannot consider any degree where Chemistry is a minor component.

    We also consider a wide range of international qualifications:

    Entry requirements for international students

    We assess each application on the basis of the applicant’s preparation and achievement as a whole. We may accept applicants whose qualifications don’t meet the published entry criteria but have other experience relevant to the course.

    The lists of required degree subjects and modules are indicative only.  Sometimes we may accept subjects or modules that aren’t listed, and sometimes we may not accept subjects or modules that are listed, depending on the content studied.

    English language requirements

    IELTS 6.5 (with 6 in each component) or University equivalent.

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for a pre-masters programme in Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department.

    Apply

    You can apply now using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. It's a quick and easy process.

    Apply now

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.