(Full time) 2022 start
Chemistry and Mathematics MChem, BSc
Coronavirus information for applicants and offer holders
We hope that by the time you’re ready to start your studies with us the situation with COVID-19 will have eased. However, please be aware, we will continue to review our courses and other elements of the student experience in response to COVID-19 and we may need to adapt our provision to ensure students remain safe. For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, regularly visit our website, which we will continue to update as the situation changes www.leeds.ac.uk/covid19faqs
Overview
Using the tools of advanced mathematics to understand the diversity and complexity of the chemical world is what really drives students on our Chemistry and Mathematics degrees.
On this programme you’ll study alongside single honours chemists and mathematicians who are learning the same concepts and reaching the same depth of knowledge as you. As you move through the programme you’ll have the opportunity to specialise in a range of topics in both areas of your course and vary the split between the two components to study the topics that interest you the most.
You’ll develop your mathematical skills in major branches such as pure maths, applied maths and statistics. A wide range of optional modules allows you to explore topics from dynamical systems to logic to coding theory. You’ll combine your mathematics knowledge with the study of chemistry to understand how and why molecules react and the methods of studying them. You can specialise in organic, inorganic or physical chemistry.
The programme will allow you to develop a range of sophisticated analytical and problem solving skills that are attractive to employers, including theoretical modelling, practical experimentation, computational programming and data analytics.
Mathematics will allow you to develop a sophisticated understanding of mathematical structures and principles while gaining a wide range of skills that are attractive to employers. Core modules will develop your knowledge of key topics such as linear algebra and calculus, while a wide range of optional modules will allow you to pursue areas from differential geometry to numerical analysis, combinatorics and nonlinear dynamics.
Course highlights
Explore the connections and interactions between chemistry and mathematics.
Our courses are shaped by our leading research in areas such as chemical biology, materials science, probability and financial mathematics, modern applied statistics and analysis.
There are lots of opportunities for you to work alongside our academics and get involved in the research happening in the Schools of Chemistry and Mathematics.
During your project work you will access specialist facilities, laboratories, modern facilities and computing equipments.
Our theoretical modules are supported by extensive practical sessions in the laboratory, allowing you to perform experiments that reinforce the material taught to you in the lectures.
Small tutorial groups are used to support the teaching, so you get regular feedback from the academic staff helping you solve any problems that you might have with a particular topic.
Benefit from our close links with organisations such as The Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Leeds Institute for Data Analytics, Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics and the Alan Turing Institute.
Programme team
The Programme is led by Dr Paul Beales. He is part of the Physical Chemistry teaching section. On top of the regular physical chemistry tutorials and teaching labs, he lectures material related to soft matter, thermodynamics, drug delivery and biological membranes.
Paul also leads the Beales Research Group, focusing on biomembranes and self-assembled nanostructures. One of their main research themes is in biological and biomimetic membranes – investigating how biomembranes respond to molecular and macromolecular stimuli in their environment, with particular interest in nanoparticles and polymers that might be useful in drug delivery and diagnostic applications. Members of the Beales Research Group are also part of the Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology.
Specialist facilities
You will have access to excellent teaching and laboratory facilities, supplemented by extensive computing equipment. You’ll be directly engaged in research through project work and dependent on the modules you take, you will have access to teaching facilities from across the different schools.
Find out more about our facilities in the School of Chemistry and the School of Mathematics.
Enhancing your degree
During your time at Leeds, you can decide to study abroad or undertake an industrial placement.
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Accreditation
Certain options can receive Royal Statistical Society accreditation and others can receive exemptions from the Institute of Actuaries.
Course content
We teach problem-solving and high level thinking at all stages of your degree. Discovery modules are available in all years of your degree, as long as you are taking enough credits of your own subject for that year.
Years one and two
You'll cover the essential aspects of both disciplines. Compulsory modules will cover the core of modern mathematics, linear algebra and calculus, alongside the fundamentals of chemistry. For the remainder of your programme, you're able to choose either additional mathematics or chemistry options or even take a third elective subject available from a wide range.
As a core part of your chemistry modules you’ll have extensive practical sessions in the laboratory, allowing you to perform experiments that reinforce the material taught to you in the lectures. In addition, small tutorial groups are used to support the teaching so you get regular feedback from the academic staff helping you solve any problems that you might have with a particular topic.
At the end of year two, you will have the opportunity to complete an industrial placement or study abroad, which will extend your degree by 12 months.
Years three and four
During the final years of your course you can select precisely which modules you wish to study and tailor your programme so it really matches your interests in chemistry and mathematics. At this point you also have the option of focusing more strongly on one of the two areas and carrying out a major research project in place of laboratory-based practical classes. You’ll work collaboratively with your supervisors throughout the project, who’ll be experts in your particular research area.
See more examples of recent projects on our Research-based degrees webpage.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.
Modules
Year 1
Compulsory modules
- Chemistry 1: Bonding and Behaviour 20 credits
- Chemistry 2: Energy, Structure and Transformation 30 credits
- Practical Skills in Chemistry for Joint Honours 1 10 credits
- Calculus and Mathematical Analysis 10 credits
- Numbers and Vectors 10 credits
- Introductory Linear Algebra 10 credits
- Modelling with Differential Equations 10 credits
- Probability and Statistics I 10 credits
- Probability and Statistics II 10 credits
Year 2
Compulsory modules
- Chemical Kinetics and Thermodynamics 10 credits
- Structure and Spectroscopy 10 credits
- Quantum Mechanics and Bonding 10 credits
- Laboratory Work 2b 10 credits
- Further Linear Algebra 10 credits
- Vector Calculus 15 credits
- Linear Differential Equations and Transforms 15 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Structure and Synthesis of Materials 10 credits
- Organic Chemistry: Conformation, Configuration & Reactivity 10 credits
- Organometallic Compounds and their Applications 10 credits
- Introduction to Drug Design 10 credits
- Organic Chemistry: Introduction to Pericyclic, Heterocyclic and Bioorganic Chemistry 10 credits
- Analytical and Applied Chemistry 10 credits
- Real Analysis 15 credits
- Logic 10 credits
- Logic with Computation 15 credits
- Geometry of Curves and Surfaces 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics with Computation 15 credits
- Nonlinear Differential Equations 10 credits
- Numerical Analysis 10 credits
- Numerical Analysis with Computation 15 credits
- Fluid Dynamics 1 10 credits
- Calculus of Variations 10 credits
- Statistical Methods 10 credits
- Statistical Modelling 10 credits
- Environmental Statistics 10 credits
Discovery modules
- Science and Society: The Critical Interface 10 credits
- Chemistry: Idea to Market 10 credits
- Mathematics into Schools 10 credits
- Introduction to Scientific Programming 10 credits
Year 3
Compulsory modules
- Laboratory Work 2M 20 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Strategy, Methods and Reaction Technology for Organic Synthesis 10 credits
- Energy, Molecules and Chemical Change 10 credits
- Medicinal Chemistry 10 credits
- Atmospheric Chemistry 10 credits
- Properties and Applications of Materials 10 credits
- Big Data, Big Science 10 credits
- Advanced Organometallics and Catalysis 10 credits
- Topics in Fundamental and Theoretical Chemistry (10cr) 10 credits
- Topics in Interdisciplinary and Applied Chemistry (10cr) 10 credits
- Topics in Interdisciplinary and Applied Chemistry (20cr) 10 credits
- Ethical Issues in Chemistry 10 credits
- Chemistry into Schools 20 credits
- Mathematics Education 10 credits
- Real Analysis 15 credits
- Logic 10 credits
- Logic with Computation 15 credits
- Geometry of Curves and Surfaces 10 credits
Year 4
Compulsory modules
- Laboratory-based Project Work 4M 40 credits
- Advanced Topics in Chemistry (40 Credit) 40 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Advanced Proof and Computation 20 credits
- Advanced Differential Geometry 20 credits
- Advanced Models and Sets 20 credits
- Advanced Coding Theory 20 credits
- Advanced Hamiltonian Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Linear and Nonlinear Waves 20 credits
- Advanced Hydrodynamic Stability 20 credits
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics 20 credits
- Advanced Nonlinear Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Entropy in the Physical World 20 credits
- Advanced Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Modern Numerical Methods 20 credits
Discovery modules
Throughout your degree you will benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.
This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.
Learning and teaching
As a chemistry and mathematics student at Leeds we ensure that you benefit from a wide range of teaching methods, including lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practical lab work.
Laboratory classes and project work allows you to gain first-hand experience investigating and applying material from your lectures and tutorials to real life work situations. Together, they will equip you with in-depth knowledge, key practical skills and transferable skills that will help you secure a graduate job. Our close links with industry also mean that you have direct contact with industry and potential employers from an early stage in your course.
You’ll be assigned a personal tutor to guide you through your studies, and you will receive support from fellow students through our peer mentoring scheme. Peer mentors are students who are on your course, but are in Years two, three or four. They’ll help you when you arrive at University and throughout your first year. You’ll meet your peer mentors during your first week for a social activity.
Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for the School, your programme and modules.
You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.
Watch our taster lectures to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:
Transition metal chemistry: controlling nanosized metallo-cages
How Do Reactions Behave in Very Cold Environments? A Journey from Earth to Deep Space
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
The types of assessment used for each module aim to measure the learning outcomes we want you to achieve. Although formal end-of-semester examinations are predominant, often accounting for 80% or more of the formal assessment, many modules include a significant coursework element. You are also continuously assessed through practical work.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: AAA including Chemistry and Mathematics.
Where an A-Level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.
Excludes A-Level General Studies or Critical Thinking.
GCSE: English Language grade C (4), or an equivalent English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.
Other course specific tests:Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and International Project Qualification (IPQ): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers an A in the EPQ or IPQ we may make an offer of AAB at A-Level (any required subjects such as Mathematics must still be at grade A).
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Access to HE Diploma
Normally only accepted in combination with grade A in A Level Mathematics or equivalent.
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BTEC
BTEC qualifications in relevant disciplines are considered in combination with other qualifications, including grade A in A-level mathematics, or equivalent
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Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 M2 in 3 principal subjects including Chemistry and D3 Mathematics
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International Baccalaureate
35 points overall with 16 at Higher Level including 6 in Higher Level Chemistry and Mathematics
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Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 including Higher Level Chemistry and Mathematics
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
Suitable combinations of Scottish Higher and Advanced Highers are acceptable, though Chemistry and Mathematics must be presented at Advanced Higher level. Typically AB at Advanced Higher and AABBB at Higher Level including Chemistry and A in Mathematics at Advanced Higher.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is an alternative admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative admissions.
Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: ABB including Chemistry and A in Mathematics and pass Access to Leeds. For alternative qualification offers please contact the admissions team.
If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any one component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. The institution code for the University of Leeds is L23. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.
Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Visit days
If you receive an offer to study with us, we’ll invite you to attend one of our visit days. You’ll have the opportunity to meet our academic staff and students, explore the School and University and find out more about your course and what it’s like to be a student at Leeds.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2022
Fees
UK: See fees section below
International: £25,250 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2022/23
For UK full-time students starting in 2022, the fee for 2022/23 will be £9,250.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the Government and may vary if policy changes.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
Career opportunities
A degree from Leeds and the experience you'll gain here will give you the edge to find the career you want. Your course will give you the experience and knowledge that employers are looking for to help you secure a graduate job.
University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2021, High Fliers Research.
This degree not only prepares you for working directly in science and technology but also gives you a skill set and knowledge base that is prized in a huge range of sectors, ranging from financial services to sustainable development.
Graduates of this course have gone on to enjoy successful careers as medicinal and analytical chemists, technical directors/managers, technologists, journalists, patent attorneys and accountants, amongst other roles.
Studying for a joint honours degree allows you to gain an in-depth knowledge of two subjects and demonstrates that you’re intellectually versatile. Your degree will equip you with a wide range of skills across different disciplines that employers actively seek. You’ll develop excellent research skills and you’ll be able to analyse complex information from multiple sources before drawing your own conclusions. You’ll then be able to communicate and defend your views clearly, either verbally or in writing. In addition, you’ll hone excellent organisational skills and be confident working independently or in a team.
A joint honours degree also lends itself to progression onto a Masters degree or PhD.
Read profiles of our alumni to find out more about where some of our graduates are working.
Careers support
At Leeds we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We will help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.
You will be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.
You will also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.
Visit our Careers and employability page to find out more.
There are also plenty of exciting ways you can volunteer during your time at Leeds. Find out more at the Leeds University Union website.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.
Find out more at the Study Abroad website.
The optional study abroad year takes place between years two and three and will extend your studies by 12 months. You will return to Leeds to complete your final year of study.
Work placements
Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.
An industrial placement year is a great way to help you decide what kind of career you might like when you graduate. As well as giving you the opportunity to develop your skills, you’ll gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector.
With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can choose to undertake a salaried industrial placement year at one of the 100+ companies that we work with. If you decide to undertake a placement year this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you will be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.
During your industrial placement you will have an industrial supervisor from within the company, plus an academic supervisor who will keep in touch throughout your placement.
Find out more about Industrial placements.