Program Overview

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BSc (Hons) - Applied Chemistry (Top Up)

Course Overview

If you have a foundation degree in Chemistry or a related subject, you may be wondering how you can put your knowledge towards starting a career. That’s where our top-up course in Applied Chemistry comes in. We’ll help you focus towards using your skills to get a job, underpinning theoretical concepts with a practical element to show you how scientific principles can be applied in a vocational setting. You’ll gain the confidence and ICT skills you need to be a highly desired employee on the job market, allowing you to make a living out of your love for chemistry.

Key Details

• Recruiting to: UK / RoI / Settled in UK
• Course Location: Carlisle - Fusehill Street
• Institute: Institute of Science and Environment
• Delivery Style: Blended Learning
• Course Duration: Part-time: 2 Years
• Course Start Point: January
• Award: BSc (Hons)

Course Structure

What you will learn

The applied chemistry programme has been designed with employers to build upon your subject knowledge through an understanding of the application of chemistry to industrial processes, focusing on practical applications, problem-solving, transferable and key skills in order to progress in your career.

You'll develop knowledge and skills in a wide range of chemistry topics including inorganic, organic, physical, biomedical and analytical techniques. We'll teach you the best ways to put your chemistry skills to use in a dynamic job market.

Year one

• Advanced Analytical Applications To develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the applications of advanced analytical techniques used in the analysis and characterisation of drugs, nuclear materials, pollutants, food and other materials.
• Exploring Research Provides you with the skills required to conceive, design, conduct and interpret scientific research. You will be guided in developing your ability to evaluate a range of quantitative and qualitative research methods and when it is appropriate to use them.
• Dissertation To enable you to undertake an independent piece of in depth research into a topic of your choice. This module provides you with an opportunity to develop your research skills and gain valuable experience in project management.
• Nuclear Chemistry (optional) Develops a detailed knowledge and understanding of Nuclear Science. In addition, it aims to expand the fundamental understanding of the interactions between radioactivity and matter, with their chemical and biological consequences and applications to radioprotection.
• Drugs and Medicinal Chemistry (optional) This module focuses on the influence of chemistry on the understanding of diseases at the molecular level and to provide chemotherapeutic drugs/agents for the avoidance, control and treatment of various diseases.
• Polymer Chemistry (optional) The module is designed in partnership with industry and aims to give a clear understanding of the key concepts of polymer chemistry, polymer structure, polymer synthesis and recent advances in research.
• Chemistry in the Environment - Industry (optional) Designed to equip students with specialist skills in modern environmental analytical methodologies, sustainable green chemistry and waste management technologies as well as the effects of contaminants on ecosystems.
• Materials Science and Nanomaterials (optional) The aim of this module is to develop a deep understanding of the nature, properties and industrial applications of functional materials, engineering materials and nanomaterials.
• Work Based – Negotiated Learning (optional) The module is a work based learning modules which will allow students to extend their chemistry knowledge and understanding in an area of study that complements previous experience and learning.

Teaching & Assessment

How you will learn

Campus based learning is central to your experience. You will learn through lecturers, seminars, laboratory workshops, and tutorials. In this time, you will explore case studies, conduct wider reading, engage in class discussions, and study the theoretical and practical applications of your knowledge.

How you will be assessed

During your studies, you will engage in a number of assessments throughout the year. These may include exams, lab reports, problem-solving exercises, and a dissertation to name a few. These assessments will allow tutors to monitor your progress and understanding and application of concepts.

Assessment types are chosen to mimic and encourage skills required within the work environment.

Entry Requirements

Successful completion of a related foundation degree (in Chemistry or Applied Chemistry) or HND. Other HNDs will be considered and assessed on their suitability depending upon the modules studied.

Applicants with non-standard entry requirements must have a post-A level qualification in chemistry or in a subject containing a high proportion of chemistry and GCSE's at a minimum of Grade C or equivalent. Level 2 qualifications to include Maths, English and Science.

Applicants from courses based at institutions other than University of Cumbria will be assessed on their suitability depending upon the modules they have studied.

Contextual Admissions

Going to higher education can transform a person’s life. We use contextual admissions to make sure that we are accessible to everyone who has the potential to succeed. Qualifications and grades are important, but they are considered alongside other information that helps universities to identify potential and widen access to university level study. For some individuals, the disadvantages they have experienced in their life mean that they have not been able to demonstrate their full academic potential. Where a person lives and their personal circumstances can all affect their educational attainment.

We take this context into account and look for an applicant’s potential when making admission decisions. The University of Cumbria will make offers to applicants that live in postal code regions with the lowest participation in Higher Education (Polar 4 quintile 1 – you can check your postcode here) and care leavers, offers will be made at the bottom of any UCAS Tariff range. Attendance at our Masterclasses and Summer Schools will also allow applicants to receive an offer lower within the tariff range. (T&Cs apply)

Fees & Funding

Tuition Fees

2025 - 2026

• £9,535 - UK

The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs.

Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.

Additional Costs

There will be some additional costs. For example all students will need to purchase stationery and may wish to purchase some text books. Extra costs may also be applicable to cover field trips, membership fees etc. although such features are usually options within the course.

Books are reviewed annually and are therefore subject to change, course welcome information will provide you with an indicative list for the year.

Books and Journals

Most core text books are available via the University's library, however students may wish to buy copies of any texts used to support your learning on your course. This could cost between £50 - £100 per year.

Stationery

Students should budget for stationery and consumables for your own personal use. This should include notebooks, pens and pencils for taking notes in class and/or in the field. Students should also budget for the purchase of USB pen drives, as well as occasional printing and photocopying costs incurred in the preparation or submission of coursework. Whilst you will choose how much you need, expect to pay around £30 - £40 per year for these items.