Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry Keele University

Overview

The Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry M.Chem. at Keele University provides an advanced academic pathway for those aspiring to become independent researchers in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. This integrated master's programme combines fundamental chemical principles with a specialised focus on the design and synthesis of clinical drugs. Students engage in high-level practical training and professional development to master complex biological and chemical problem-solving.

Why Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry at Keele University?

• Study at a university ranked first in the UK for student satisfaction in Chemistry by the National Student Survey 2025.
• Benefit from a programme accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, ensuring your qualification meets rigorous industry standards.
• Train in the £34 million Central Science Laboratories, featuring industry-standard instrumentation and research-grade equipment.
• Work alongside active researchers in specialist fields such as drug optimisation and the chemistry-biology interface.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 18200 per year
• National fee: GBP 2026 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Year 1

• Practical and Professional Chemistry Skills
• Chemical Structure and Reactivity
• Chemistry Connections
• Sustainable Chemistry
• Science and Society

Year 2

• Practical and Professional Chemistry
• Chemical Characterisation and Transformations
• Environmental Analysis
• Structure and Function in Medicinal Chemistry
• Drug Design

Year 3

• Kinetics, Catalysis and Mechanism
• Synthetic Strategies in Organic Chemistry
• Mechanisms of Drug Action
• Chemical Analysis: Instrumentation and Evaluation
• Independent Research Project

Year 4

• Synoptic Topics and Modern Trends in Chemistry
• MChem Research Training
• MChem Independent Research Project

Careers with Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry

Graduates are equipped with the advanced analytical and computational skills required for high-level roles in the global pharmaceutical and chemical industries. The integrated master's level of study specifically prepares students for careers as professional research scientists or for progression to doctoral research. The curriculum embeds employability through mock interviews with chemical companies and workshops led by industry experts.

Potential career destinations include roles such as medicinal chemist, analytical chemist, toxicologist, and pharmaceutical scientist. Graduates may also find opportunities in environmental science, forensic investigation, or as science communicators and policy advisors. The programme's focus on drug design and synthetic chemistry ensures students are ready for the technical demands of modern drug discovery laboratories.