Program Overview

Introduction to the Chemical Research MSc Program

The Chemical Research MSc program at University College London (UCL) is designed to provide students with an intensive research experience, equipping them with the skills necessary for a career in research or industry. The program is particularly suitable for those wishing to embark on a research career and is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC).

Program Overview

The program consists of a combination of advanced taught courses and an intensive novel research project, providing 'hands-on' training in methods and techniques at the cutting edge of scientific research. Students will develop a systematic approach to devising experiments and/or computations and gain familiarity with a broad range of synthetic, analytical, and spectroscopic techniques.

Key Features of the Program

• The principal component (50%) of this degree is an intensive novel research project.
• Advanced taught courses can be selected to cover branches of chemistry of interest.
• A review of aspects of the scientific literature relevant to the research project.
• Training in transferable skills for scientists.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have:

• A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree in a science or engineering discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
• English language requirements: Level 1.

Equivalent Qualifications

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from a list of countries. The equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on the program page.

Course Structure

The program is delivered through a combination of:

• Online and face-to-face lectures
• Seminars and workshops
• Tutorials
• Laboratory classes
• Research supervision

Assessment

Assessment is through unseen written examination and coursework. The literature project is assessed by written dissertation, and the research project is assessed by a written report, supervisor appraisal, an interim oral presentation with viva voce, and poster presentation.

Modules

• Compulsory modules:
  • Masters Literature Project
  • Chemical Research Research Project
  • Transferable Skills for Scientists
• Optional modules:
  • Simulation Methods in Materials Chemistry
  • Advanced Topics in Environmental and Energy Materials
  • Topics in Modern Chemistry

Research Areas

Students can undertake a project that aligns with their existing interests in areas such as:

• Organic synthesis
• Inorganic/materials chemistry
• Physical chemistry
• Computational chemistry

Employability

The MSc is designed to provide students with first-hand experience of cutting-edge research in chemistry, making it particularly well-suited for those aiming to pursue doctoral studies or an academic career. The advanced research and critical thinking skills developed throughout the program are highly transferable and valued across commercial sectors.

Fees and Funding

• UK tuition fees (2026/27): Ł16,000
• Overseas tuition fees (2026/27): Ł42,700
• The program offers various scholarships, including the Bseisu-UCL Scholarship and the UCL East London Scholarship.

Accessibility

The department will endeavor to make reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities. Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services team.