Chemistry with Materials Chemistry with Integrated Master's Keele University

Overview

The Chemistry with Materials Chemistry with Integrated Master's, MChem degree from Keele University will provide you with an advanced understanding of the fundamental theory and practical applications of materials such as batteries, fuel cells and catalysts that allow us to transport, convert, deliver and conserve energy in all aspects of our industrial society.

The Materials Chemistry specialism applies a strong grounding in chemistry towards the materials chemistry principles required to solve problems at the interfaces of chemistry, physics and engineering. Threading sustainability and industrial chemistry through traditional chemical principles and theories, you will also explore the fascinating role chemistry plays in addressing humanity's most urgent global, economic, health and environmental challenges. In the first two years of study, you will build a strong foundation of core concepts in the fundamental areas of inorganic, organic, physical and analytical chemistry. Your development as a professional chemist is a central theme throughout the degree and you will benefit from embedded core practical, professional and employability skills woven throughout each year of your studies. Your learning will be supported through interactive teaching, workshops and small group activities as well as frequent opportunities to apply key concepts in laboratory classes and other practical exercises.

During your third year you will have the opportunity to unleash your creativity and undertake an independent research project. Rather than scripted laboratory work, you will collaborate with an academic member of staff to complete approximately 80 hours of project work, spread over both semesters. You will also complete a literature review, giving you the opportunity to delve into an area of your own personal interest which you may connect to your research project, or diversify into another area.

In your final year, you will undertake an extensive, year-long independent research project. Working in a collaborative research environment, your project will advance knowledge and tackle a new question in your subject, working towards contributing your own findings to the international scientific literature in your field. Alongside your project you will participate in a series of research skills seminars that will train you in aspects of chemical research, advanced analytical techniques, and how to present data and scientific arguments to publication standard. You will also study a range of synoptic and advanced chemistry topics that include applied problem solving and research at the forefront of chemistry.

Career opportunities:

You will graduate with an advanced depth and breadth of fundamental and applied knowledge from across chemistry and relevant topics in materials science, a strong grounding in laboratory techniques and an understanding of the intersection of chemistry and materials chemistry with sustainability, ethical practices and wider societal challenges. Graduates of this programme may enter a wide range of professions, both in and out of the laboratory. You may also enhance your knowledge by undertaking further study at PhD level.

Roles related to your degree include:

• Academic chemist

• Analytical chemist

• Chemical engineer

• Environmental scientist

• Material scientist

• Nuclear engineer

• Policy advisor

• Research assistant

• Science communicator

• Science teacher

• Synthetic chemist

You will acquire skills in:

• Applied problem solving

• Chemical design

• Communication of scientific knowledge to a variety of audiences

• Digital tools

• Data analysis

• Independent learning

• Research and presentation

• Scientific investigation