| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Chemistry A-level
Overview
Chemistry is in everything you taste, smell, touch and see and as our world undergoes rapid changes, we need chemists more than ever. It will help us in the race for new antibiotics, find ways to conserve coral reefs and manufacture environmentally-friendly alternatives to current plastics.
Course Breakdown
To achieve your Chemistry A-level, you must study the following topics:
Physical Chemistry
- Atoms, compounds and molecules
- Periodic table
- Bonding and structure
- Reactions
- Equations
Organic Chemistry
- Alkanes and alkenes
- Alcohols
- Spectrometry
- Aromatic compounds
- Polymers
Inorganic Chemistry
- Periodicity
- Alkaline metals
- Halogens
- Transition elements
Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements
- We ask for a minimum of five GCSE subjects at grade 5 or higher, including GCSE English Literature or Language and a grade 6 in GCSE Maths and Chemistry/ Combined Science.
Supporting Documents Required
- School applicants will be required to provide a school report, which must include attendance. This will be assessed in conjunction with your qualifications and application during the confirmation of your place at University College Birmingham.
Guaranteed Progression
Students who achieve 56 UCAS points or more from this qualification will automatically be guaranteed a place on a degree course at University College Birmingham. Some undergraduate courses require additional entry requirements, so applicants are advised to check entry requirements before applying.
Key Information
Teaching and Assessment
There is strong emphasis on experiments and developing practical skills with class discussion, independent learning and research. To help you flourish into a confident, independent learner, we develop your thinking and research skills with notetaking and revision strategies embedded into lessons.
You will be assessed through three written examination papers (Summer of Year 2) plus a practical endorsement for chemistry.
Exam papers contain questions that will also test your understanding of experimental work and mathematical skills.
Over the two-year course, you are expected to complete a mandatory set of experiments and you will gain a certificate as evidence of your competency, the Practical Endorsement.
Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy.
Enhanced Learning Opportunity - Core Maths
To support and extend your learning experience at the sixth form centre, we are offering students on this particular A-level course the additional opportunity to study Core Maths.
Level 3 Mathematical Studies (Core Maths)
Core Maths, a one-year course equivalent to an AS-level (half an A-level), is an engaging and diverse course that gives you an excellent preparation for your future. It is about using maths to solve meaningful, real-life problems, as well as developing your data handling and critical analysis skills, equipping you with the essential quantitative skills you need for many careers and degrees.
Career Options
A-level Chemistry is essential for most science degrees, including chemical engineering, pharmacy, pharmacology, medicine, veterinary, dentistry, biochemistry and inorganic chemistry. It is often required for degrees such as biology, geology, marine biology, geography, environmental science, oceanography and forensics.
Chemists work in almost any field you can think of, including pharmaceuticals, food technology, cosmetics, toxicology, manufacturing, petrochemicals, journalism, criminal forensics, teaching and research in academia or industry.
Example Roles and Salaries
- Pharmacist: £48,000
- Journalist: £33,000
- Forensic Scientist: £30,000
- Toxicologist: £36,000
- Dentist: £74,000
- Veterinarian: £63,000
A-levels that Go Well with Chemistry
- Physics A-level
- Maths A-level
- Biology A-level
- Further Maths A-level
- Computer Science A-level
Centre of Opportunities
Our sixth form centre taps into the wider university's networks to enhance student opportunities and gives you access to world-class university facilities.
Program Outline
A-Level Chemistry at University College Birmingham
Degree Overview:
Overview:
This A-level program delves into the fascinating world of chemistry, exploring its role in various aspects of our lives and addressing pressing global challenges. It lays the foundation for further studies in various science-related fields.
Objectives:
- Develop a thorough understanding of fundamental chemical principles and their applications.
- Enhance analytical and critical thinking skills through practical experiments and research.
- Foster a passion for scientific inquiry and exploration.
- Prepare students for further studies in science, engineering, and other related disciplines.
Program Description:
The program covers three core areas of chemistry:
- Physical Chemistry: Explores the scientific principles behind chemical reactions and their real-world applications.
- Inorganic Chemistry: Examines the properties of inorganic compounds and their role in industrial processes.
- Organic Chemistry: Focuses on the study of carbon-based molecules, their applications, and the production of complex molecules like pharmaceuticals. Unique features of the program include:
- Access to Food Science and Innovation suite: Students gain hands-on experience with analytical equipment used in the dietetic and nutrition industries.
- Full access to university library: Encourages independent research and intellectual exploration.
- Dedicated learning and careers support: Provides one-to-one tutorials for academic and career guidance.
Outline:
Program Content:
The program consists of three core areas:
- Physical Chemistry:
- Atoms, compounds, and molecules
- Periodic table
- Bonding and structure
- Reactions
- Equations
- Organic Chemistry:
- Alkanes and alkenes
- Alcohols
- Spectrometry
- Aromatic compounds
- Polymers
- Inorganic Chemistry:
- Periodicity
- Alkaline metals
- Halogens
- Transition elements
Structure:
- Two-year full-time program
- Delivered through a combination of lectures, practical experiments, independent study, and research
Course Schedule:
- Typically, classes are held during weekdays, with a combination of lectures, tutorials, and laboratory sessions.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Three written examination papers at the end of year 2
- Practical endorsement for chemistry, demonstrating competency in laboratory skills
- Continuous assessment through coursework, assignments, and presentations
Assessment Criteria:
- Understanding of key concepts and theories
- Practical skills and laboratory techniques
- Communication and presentation skills
- Critical thinking and analysis
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Interactive lectures and discussions
- Hands-on laboratory experiments
- Independent research and group projects
- Use of digital learning resources and online platforms
Faculty:
- Experienced and qualified chemistry teachers
- Active researchers in their respective fields
- Dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment
Unique Approaches:
- Emphasis on practical skills development through laboratory work
- Integration of current research findings and real-world applications
- Development of research and critical thinking skills
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Chemical engineering
- Pharmacy
- Pharmacology
- Medicine
- Veterinary
- Dentistry
- Biochemistry
- Inorganic chemistry
- Biology
- Geology
- Marine biology
- Geography
- Environmental science
- Oceanography
- Forensics
- Journalism
- Criminal forensics
- Teaching
- Research in academia or industry
Career Opportunities:
- Chemists work in diverse fields, including pharmaceuticals, food technology, cosmetics, toxicology, manufacturing, petrochemicals, journalism, criminal forensics, teaching, and research.
Career Outcomes:
- Graduates are well-prepared for further studies and a variety of careers in science, engineering, and other related fields.
Other:
Enhanced Learning Opportunity – Core Maths:
Students can opt for the additional Core Maths course alongside A-level Chemistry.
Guaranteed Progression:
Students achieving 56 UCAS points from this qualification are guaranteed a place on a degree course at University College Birmingham.
University College Birmingham
Overview:
University College Birmingham (UCB) is a vibrant and welcoming institution located in the heart of Birmingham, England. It offers a diverse range of academic programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeship, and college courses. UCB is known for its world-class facilities, which have been significantly enhanced through a £200 million investment.
Services Offered:
The context does not provide specific details about the services offered to students.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCB boasts a supportive and friendly student community, where students can forge lifelong friendships and find a sense of belonging. The institution offers campus tours led by student ambassadors, who provide insights into student life and facilities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
World-class facilities:
UCB has invested heavily in its campuses, equipment, and resources, providing students with a high-quality learning environment.University of Warwick accreditation:
Many of UCB's programs are accredited and awarded by the University of Warwick, a prestigious Russell Group university, ensuring high academic standards.Location:
Situated in the heart of Birmingham, UCB offers students access to a thriving business environment, beautiful green spaces, vibrant nightlife, and a diverse cultural scene.Student choice:
UCB is the highest-ranking university in the region according to student choice, as recognized by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024.Academic Programs:
UCB offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
A variety of undergraduate degree courses.Postgraduate:
A selection of postgraduate degree courses.Apprenticeships:
Higher level apprenticeships.College:
College courses.Other:
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- 4 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including a grade 5 in GCSE Science and Maths.
International Overseas Students (outside the EU):
- Completion of the equivalent of GCSEs with a grade 5 or above in Science and Maths.
Additional Requirements:
- School report required, including attendance.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
English Language Requirements:
- International students whose first language is not English must provide evidence of their English language proficiency by achieving a minimum score of:
- IELTS: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in each individual component
- Pearson PTE Academic: 59 overall with no less than 51 in each individual component
- TOEFL iBT: 80 overall with no less than 20 in each individual component
- GCSE English Language: Grade C or above
University College Birmingham English Language Test:
- Applicants can also take the University College Birmingham English Language Test, which is offered on campus.
