FAQs - Courses

You'll find answers to all the most common questions about studying chemistry or a chemical science on this page. Lots of useful information about choosing a course, the types of course available and career opportunities can also be found in the our publication Choosing a degree - the essential guide.

Which is the best university for chemistry?

There is no one university that is best for everyone who wishes to study chemistry. Some of the things you should think about when choosing a university are:

• Courses available and entry requirements
• Location - do you want to be near home or not? Would you like to be in a big city or a smaller town?
• Campus or city? - Are all the university buildings on a campus outside town or scattered across a city? Which would you prefer?
• Accommodation options and costs
• Number of students at the university and on the course you are interested in.    

It is also important to visit the universities you are thinking of applying to. Go to their open days and ask plenty of questions, both about the course and about life in the town or city. Remember - you'll be living there for three or four years so it's important you can feel comfortable and enjoy yourself. 

The RSC publication Choosing a degree - the essential guide provides lots more tips on things to consider when choosing a university and a course.

I like biology and chemistry - should I study biochemistry at university?

If you are already interested in biology and chemistry, then many biochemistry courses will certainly contain elements that you are likely to enjoy. However, biochemistry is not merely a blend of the two other disciplines. Contact the Biochemical Society for more information.

Before you decide to study any subject, you should find out what the course will actually involve by reading university prospectuses and possibly contacting admissions tutors or speaking to someone you know who is already doing a similar course. You can then make an informed decision about whether that course is right for you. Even courses with the same or similar titles vary between universities so make sure you find out about each individual course. The RSC publication Choosing a degree - the essential guide provides information on the different kinds of chemical science degree courses available and gives advice on questions to ask yourself and others before making a decision.

What are the differences between BSc and MChem/MSci courses?

MChem and MSci courses have exactly the same status as each other - they are just called different things at different universities. These courses are extended programmes that last four years, whilst BSc courses last three years. The first two years of an MChem course are usually identical to those of the Chemistry BSc course at the same institution. Students then take different routes in year 3 or 4.

Courses vary immensely, but a basic stipulation is that the additional year included in MChem/MSci courses must contain more advanced material than the BSc, rather than just a greater quantity. The extended programmes are designed to prepare students for direct entry into professional practice or provide a basis for progression to a PhD. They provide more opportunity to develop skills such as presentation and communication skills than is possible within a BSc course. The entry requirements for the MChem/MSci courses are generally a little higher than those for the corresponding BSc courses.

If you are unsure as to which route to follow and are predicted grades which satisfy the higher requirement, you would be well advised to enrol on the MChem/MSci course as it is easier to move down to the BSc later than to move up to the MChem/MSci if you initially enroll for the shorter course.

Do I need maths to study chemistry at university?

Maths is an extremely important part of nearly all chemistry degree courses. Although an A Level in maths is not always an entry requirement, you will find some aspects of the course more difficult if you have not studied maths to this level. You may also be required to do a 'catch-up' course in maths once you reach university. If you have another year to do at school or college, think about taking AS maths or some free-standing maths qualifications (algebra & calculus are particularly useful).

What are the entry requirements?

These vary enormously between universities and some courses are more demanding than others. The RSC's publication Entry requirements for chemical science degrees lists the requirements for courses at many institutions. The UCAS website has a comprehensive database of courses available and their entry requirements.

The UCAS points system takes account of a wide range of qualifications - full details can be found on the UCAS website. A different points score system is operated in the Republic of Ireland and details are provided on the Central Applications Office website.

In addition to academic achievements, university admissions tutors consider how you use your free time. Work experience in a relevant area can help your application, but your hobbies can also provide important evidence of team work, determination and other useful skills.

Where can I find details of tuition fees and bursaries offered by different institutions?

Chemistry courses are not more expensive for the student than other courses. However, the amount you have to pay depends on which university you go to and can also be affected by where you come from (which UK country).

All institutions are now required by Government to make details of the tuition fees they charge and the bursaries they offer available. These Access Agreements can be found on the Office for Fair Access (OFFA) website.

The RSC's student finance web pages also offer lots of help and advice.

Can I get financial help?

Yes! Maintenance grants, bursaries and student loans offer financial support to eligible students. You can find out more about these kinds of support on our student finance web page. The Department for Education and Skills also provides lots of financial advice on its website, including links to sites dedicated to Irish, Scottish and non-UK EU students.

The RSC's publication Awards, Sponsorship and Scholarships lists a number of universities and companies that offer financial help. 

Should I take a year out - a 'Gap Year'?

A number of students consider taking a year off before embarking on higher education and most universities have no objection to this. Nevertheless, it is wise to check with the institution(s) you intend to apply to. You should also make your plans clear on your UCAS (UK) or CAO (Republic of Ireland) application form.

A year out can provide an opportunity to learn new skills, increase your confidence and gain experience of working in an environment completely different from that at school or college. You may choose to look for work in an area relevant to your chosen course to gain useful experience. If you decide to do this, the organisation YINI (Year in Industry) can help you find a placement. Alternatively, you may prefer to do some voluntary work either at home or abroad. This can be a great opportunity to gain new skills and meet new people. Whatever you decide to do, you should think carefully beforehand about your goals, how you can achieve them and what you will gain from the experience.

Where can I find information on studying an A Level through distance learning?

The National Extension College provides a range of distance-learning courses and can provided advice and support for those wishing to follow such a course.