(Full time) 2019 start
Chemistry and Mathematics MChem, BSc
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 linear algebra and calculus. A wide range of optional modules allows you to explore topics from dynamical systems to probability 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.
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 probability to coding theory, special relativity and financial modelling.
Enhancing your degree
We offer two degree options: the MChem, BSc, a four-year integrated Masters degree programme, and the BSc programme, which is a three-year course.
There are opportunities to gain industrial experience on a placement year or to study abroad for a year. Both schemes add an additional year to your course.
Our industrial placement scheme gives you the opportunity to gain work experience in an industry relevant to your degree and interests. Our students often describe this industrial experience as an invaluable part of their degree and one which stands them in good stead for their future careers.
The study abroad year enables you to gain insight into the study of chemistry at one of our partner universities overseas. Many students have found this to be extremely worthwhile in helping broaden their horizons in terms of learning about a new culture and improving their foreign language skills.
There is also the opportunity to transfer to the MNatSc, BSc Natural Sciences Integrated Masters course, provided certain academic standards are achieved.
Accreditation
Certain options can receive Royal Statistical Society accreditation and others can receive exemptions from the Institute of Actuaries.
Course content
During the first and second years of the course 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.
Once you reach the third year of your course you can select precisely which modules you wish to study and tailor your programme so it really matches your interests in either chemistry or mathematics. At this point you also have the option of focusing more strongly on one of the two areas. In your final year, you will carry out a major research project.
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
- Introduction to Modern Chemistry 20 credits
- Fundamentals of Physical Chemistry 10 credits
- Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry 10 credits
- Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry 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
- Studying in a Digital Age (Chemistry) 5 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Practical Skills in Chemistry for Joint Honours 1 10 credits
- Practical Skills in Chemistry for Joint Honours 2 10 credits
Year 2
Compulsory modules
- Chemical Kinetics and Thermodynamics 10 credits
- Structure and Spectroscopy 10 credits
- Quantum Mechanics and Spectroscopy 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
- Introduction to Organic Synthesis 10 credits
- Introduction to Drug Design 10 credits
- Organic Structure and Mechanism 10 credits
- Organometallic and f-block Chemistry 10 credits
- Equilibrium and Analysis: from Ions to Proteins 10 credits
- Mathematical Logic 1 10 credits
- Geometry of Curves and Surfaces 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics with Computation 15 credits
- Nonlinear Differential Equations 10 credits
- Special Relativity 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
- Computational Mathematics 10 credits
Year 3
Compulsory modules
- Laboratory Work 2M 20 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Advanced Organometallics and Catalysis 10 credits
- Chemical Bonding and Reactivity 10 credits
- The Medicinal Chemistry of Drug Development 10 credits
- Organic Synthesis 10 credits
- Atmospheric Chemistry 10 credits
- Chromatography and Analytical Separation 10 credits
- Properties and Applications of Materials 10 credits
- Big Data, Big Science 10 credits
- Chemistry at the Molecular Level 10 credits
- Reactivity in Organic Chemistry - Principles and Applications 10 credits
- Soft Matter: Self-Assembling and Polymeric Materials 10 credits
- Fundamental Supramolecular Chemistry 10 credits
- Chemistry: Making an Impact 10 credits
- Ethical Issues in Chemistry 10 credits
- Chemistry into Schools 20 credits
- Combinatorial Optimisation 10 credits
- Graph Algorithms and Complexity Theory 10 credits
- Mathematics Education 10 credits
- Mathematical Logic 1 10 credits
- Geometry of Curves and Surfaces 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics 10 credits
- Discrete Mathematics with Computation 15 credits
- Nonlinear Differential Equations 10 credits
- Special Relativity 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
- Mathematics into Schools 10 credits
- Computational Mathematics 10 credits
- Project in Mathematics 20 credits
- History of Mathematics 15 credits
- Calculus in the Complex Plane 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- Graph Theory 15 credits
- Proof and Computation 15 credits
- Differential Geometry 15 credits
- Models and Sets 15 credits
- Combinatorics 15 credits
- Coding Theory 15 credits
- Transformation Geometry 15 credits
- Mathematical Methods 15 credits
- Linear and Non-Linear Waves 15 credits
- Hydrodynamic Stability 15 credits
- Quantum Mechanics 15 credits
- Dynamical Systems 15 credits
- Nonlinear Dynamics 15 credits
- Analytic Solutions of Partial Differential Equations 15 credits
- Introduction to Entropy in the Physical World 15 credits
- Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Numerical Methods 10 credits
- Modern Numerical Methods 15 credits
- Discrete Systems and Integrability 15 credits
- Cosmology 10 credits
- Mathematical Biology 15 credits
- Evolutionary Modelling 15 credits
- Fluid Dynamics 2 15 credits
- Linear Regression and Robustness 15 credits
- Statistical Theory 15 credits
- Multivariate Analysis 10 credits
- Time Series 10 credits
- Bayesian Statistics 10 credits
- Generalised Linear Models 10 credits
- Introduction to Statistics and DNA 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)
- Graph Theory: Structure and Algorithms 15 credits
- Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics 20 credits
- 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 Dynamical Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Nonlinear Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Entropy in the Physical World 20 credits
- Advanced Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Modern Numerical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Discrete Systems and Integrability 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Biology 20 credits
- Advanced Evolutionary Modelling 20 credits
Broadening your academic horizons
At Leeds we want you to benefit from the depth and breadth of the University's expertise, to prepare you for success in an ever-changing and challenging world. This course gives you the opportunity to broaden your learning by studying discovery modules. Find out more on the 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.
These different methods of teaching, together with the continuous support of our teaching staff, enable you to effectively apply what you have learnt through a series of exams, coursework, and continuous assessment. This means that you graduate with the correct mix of knowledge and transferable skills for a successful future career, whatever you choose to do.
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.
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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 D3 in 3 principal subjects including Chemistry and 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 Highers (Leaving Certificate)
H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 H2 including higher level Chemistry and H1 in Mathematics
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
Suitable combinations of Scottish Higher and Advanced Highers are acceptable, though Chemistry must be presented at Advanced Higher level. Typically AAAAB 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.
International
We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information please contact the School of Chemistry Admissions Team.
Foundation year
If you have the ability to study for a degree but don’t have the qualifications to enter directly to level one, you might consider studying a foundation year. We have formal links with the following foundation year programmes:
- University of Leeds International Foundation Year (IFY)
- Northern Consortium of UK Universities (NCUK)
- Study Group Leeds International Study Centre (LISC)
If you are applying from an alternative foundation year provider, please contact our admissions team to find out if your qualification is suitable for entry to our courses.
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.
After you apply we will assess your application based on the information on your UCAS form. On the basis of this information we will decide whether to invite you to one of our informal interview days which, for UK based applicants, are an essential part of the admissions process.
Read more about how to apply on our School of Chemistry website.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK/EU 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.
Applicant days
Suitable applicants will be invited to an applicant day as this gives you the opportunity to meet our staff and students, explore the School and University and find out more about your course. During the day you’ll have an informal interview with an academic member of staff, to check that it’s the right course for you and your career plans, have your questions answered and find out more about studying at Leeds.
After you apply we will send you a link to book your place on the applicant day, if you are unable to attend and have previously attended an admissions event at Leeds then please let us know.
In the case of some non-standard qualifications, it may be necessary for an extended technical interview to play a bigger part in the selection procedure. This is to ensure that the course is suitable for you and that your current studies have prepared you for the curriculum at Leeds. If you are unable to attend, a telephone or Skype interview may be arranged. For further information, read our admissions policy.
Admissions policy
Faculty of Mathematics and Physical Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Policy
Fees
UK/EU: See fees section below
International: £22,750 (per year)
For UK and non-UK EU full-time students starting in 2018, the fee for 2018/19 will be £9,250.
For UK and non-UK EU full-time students starting in 2019, the fee for 2019/20 will be £9,250.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law. For example, the increase of 2.8% in 2017/18 was based on the government’s forecast for the RPI-X measure of inflation.
The UK government has confirmed that non-UK EU students starting in the 2019/20 academic year will have home fee status and be eligible for UK government student loans. The UK government has not confirmed the situation for future years, so keep checking our website for updates.
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.
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.
Read about our range of additional scholarships available in the School of Chemistry.
Career opportunities
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, specialising in either chemistry or mathematics.
For further information on career paths and employability please see our careers pages.
Careers Support
Throughout your degree we will make sure that you have the support and opportunity to develop the skills and experience you’ll need to make the most of your career choices.
Our industrial placement scheme helps you gain valuable work experience that can help you stand out from the crowd. You could also secure a part-time job that you can feature on your CV through the students’ union's Joblink.
Our study abroad scheme allows you to experience another culture and develop life skills, which many employers value. The students’ union also provides volunteering opportunities which can help you in your personal development.
We teach problem-solving and high level thinking at all stages of your degree. Our programmes provide you with opportunities to develop the core subject knowledge and skills that you need to progress to a career in a particular area. Additionally, we offer skills development modules and modules that will give you an insight into industrial new product development, from concept to market, in the chemical and allied industries. These modules lead you through the various stages of setting up a new social enterprise, from the inception and development of the idea itself, through preparation of a business plan to creating a funding proposal for potential investors/grant awarding bodies.
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers 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. The University has over 300 partnerships with universities 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.
Spending a year living and studying in another country is a unique experience. Unlike the passing tourist, you have the chance to totally immerse yourself in another culture. You will gain unforgettable experiences and memories that you will draw upon in your working and personal life for years to come. In addition to this, the proven ability to live and work in an international context is an asset that employers actively seek.
During your year abroad, you will follow the Chemistry and/or Mathematics course at your host institution. Many students find it valuable to undertake an extended practical project during this year which can be presented as part of your assessment for the year. When you return to Leeds you will enter the final year of your degree scheme.
If you wish to study at an institution where the course is taught in a foreign language, such as French, you don’t need to be fluent in the language before you go. We will help prepare you with a specialist language module at Level 2 which introduces you to scientific vocabulary and enhances your conversational and comprehension skills.
Students who spend a year in Europe through the ERASMUS programme also receive a maintenance grant for their year away and pay a reduced tuition fee for the year abroad.
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.
The industrial placement (“Year in Industry”) scheme provides you with the opportunity to experience salaried work before you graduate. Employers actively seek graduates who already have work experience and it can make all the difference in interviews. In addition, the opportunity to work every day with scientists and mathematicians who are experts in their field is an incredible opportunity to enhance your knowledge.
An industrial placement will boost your self-confidence, not only in your chosen subject area, but in the marketplace generally. You will be able to choose from a range of chemistry or mathematics-related industries in which to work. In previous years, students have worked at many prestigious companies.
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.
If you are not sure right now whether or not an industrial placement is right for you, don't worry - you will not have to start applying for placements until the beginning of your second year.