Chemistry (Extended), BSc Hons at University of Greenwich

Our extended chemistry degree gives you a broad knowledge of the subject and has an extra year to prepare you for degree-level study. You’ll require lower entry points than on our three-year course.

Our extended degree in chemistry will give you the theoretical knowledge and practical skills you'll need for successful careers in research and development, the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, environmental pollution, and health and safety.

The course starts with a foundation year to build up your skills for subsequent years. After this, you'll study the same modules offered on our three-year course. As well as getting a broad education in all branches of chemistry, you'll gain transferable skills that are sought after by employers in other sectors, such as business and public service.

What you should know about this course

•  This four-year course is identical to the three-year course but has a foundation year with lower entry requirements
•  If you have the ability but not the qualifications, this course is your first step to graduation
•  The foundation year includes academic writing, computing skills, an introduction to the subject and more.

Careers and placements

Will I have a work placement?

Students go to a range of companies and organisations of varying sizes for their placements, including large multi-national firms, government agencies, the NHS and small to medium sized companies engaged in research, analytical services and manufacturing. 

• Previous students have worked in: Eon, Dyson, ADEY, PS Analytical and E-liquids, GSK, NHS hospitals.
• IAESTE (British Council) placements to Brazil, Dubai and Poland.
• We have a dedicated team to search for and inform students about relevant opportunities and help students prepare for interviews.

How long is my placement?

Students can undertake a summer placement for between 6 weeks to a maximum of 3 months, which is acknowledged by the award of a Certificate of Industrial Experience. Students are also encouraged to apply for sandwich placements lasting between 9-12 months which sit between the second and third year of the degree.

What are the financial arrangements?

The Faculty expectation is that students are as far as possible treated like other employees of the company or organisation. It is expected that students on sandwich placements will be paid throughout their time with the company. In some cases, students on summer placements have had expenses only covered by the company. Students on sandwich placements are required to pay a reduced fee to the University for their placement year.

What sort of careers do graduates pursue?

Chemistry is a central science, and a qualification in this subject will offer a wide variety of career opportunities in research and development, teaching, the chemical and pharmaceutical industries (production development, analytical science, quality assurance and information science), forensic science, environmental pollution, and health and safety.

Are internships available?

Interns can gain valuable employment experience within the faculty – subject to resources. Personal tutors will be able to advise students on where to access course internships.

Do you provide employability services?

We have a team dedicated to enhancing student employment outcomes. We have an Employer Partnerships Manager developing relationships with companies to provide placement and employment opportunities. Other members of the team focus on helping students to develop their knowledge of job markets, production of effective CVs, cover letters and application forms, understanding HR selection processes, preparing final year students for graduate job applications and applying for placements. Visit our Employability & Careers Service pages.