BSC (HONOURS)/MCHEM Chemistry at Sheffield Hallam University

• Develop real-world chemistry problem-solving skills in the context of biological, environmental, materials and pharmaceutical science.
• Gain experience of industrially-relevant analytical instrumentation, modern synthetic techniques and application of computing in chemistry.
• Take the opportunity to complete a work placement – either in the UK or abroad. 
• Transfer onto an MChem route for a specialist year of research intensive study working alongside our internationally recognised researchers

Chemistry impacts everything around you. This course will give you the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to be part of exciting scientific developments that affect all areas of life.

Work placements

You have the opportunity to apply for a year-long work placement between your second and third year – either in the UK or abroad. This gives you a real-world experience to prepare you for your future career. In previous years students have obtained placements in  pharmaceutical and materials chemical industries, scientific recruitment agencies and in education. By securing a placement with one of our industry partners, you will enter the jobs market with a CV that attracts employer attention.

Completion of a year-long work placement will allow you to achieve an Advanced Professional Diploma alongside your degree.

Research Project

During your final year you will combine the skills and knowledge you have gained to undertake a specialist research project working alongside an expert in your chosen subject area. Opportunities are available for both lab and non lab-based science projects allowing you the flexibility to focus on a specific area of interest.

Field trips

Students have benefited from a European field trip to world renowned chemical research facilities. The trip included tours of the facilities, seminars and discussions with leading chemists, as well as exposure to the culture of the region. The majority of the cost for this trip was covered by the university. 

Networking opportunities

The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) will help you to connect with the wider chemistry community. Representatives and staff from Sheffield Hallam’s Chemistry Society (ChemSoc) sit on the committee for the local section of the RSC – so they will keep you up to date with the latest local and national chemistry events.

Competitions

Each year students have the opportunity to showcase their project work to the department of Biosciences and Chemistry, and in the final year at a national chemistry conference gaining invaluable skills in presenting to the scientific community.

Future careers

This course prepares you for a wide range of careers including:

• analytical science
• academic chemistry research 
• pharmaceutical and drug development
• polymer and materials chemistry
• regulatory affairs and chemical patent law
• teaching and education
• scientific sales and recruitment

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for world-leading companies such as:

• analytical chemists at AstraZeneca
• biological monitors for the Health and Safety Laboratory
• validation chemists for Waters Ltd
• polymer scientists at Reckitt Benckiser
• communications account manager at Notch Scientific Communications

Many graduates also progress to specialist Masters courses or carry out research for a PhD to enhance their scientific careers.