Chemistry University of Reading

Overview

Key features

• The Chemistry BSc degree from the University of Reading provides solid training in chemistry and equips you with key transferable skills. You will spend your first two years learning the core subjects that all chemists need to know. Topics include trends in the periodic table, carbonyl group chemistry and chemical kinetics. You will be taught by internationally leading experts through a combination of lectures, lab classes, workshops and tutorials.
• If you do not have an A level in Maths, you will take our first year Maths for Chemists module which covers all the topics you will need for Chemistry. Depending on your level of maths, you may have the opportunity to take an option from outside the Department.
• In your final year you will study more advanced topics influenced by the cutting-edge chemistry taking place around you. The Department's staff specialise in a number of areas including nanotechnology, synthesis, polymers and advanced materials, surface science and forensic analysis, providing a wide range of options for your final year research project. You will also have the opportunity to participate in academic research. and can work alongside our world-class researchers.
• Additionally, if you are interested in teaching as a career, we offer a school-based project in your final year. Students spend one day a week for two terms working alongside both teachers and pupils on an individual project. This project gives you the necessary experience for teacher training applications and helps develop your professional skills for careers which involve working with people.

Career opportunities:

• We incorporate skills development into each year of the degree, giving you a better chance of securing work when you leave university. Upon graduation you will have a range of skills which are essential for chemists but also make you highly desirable in all areas of employment. 
• These include skills such as planning and organisation, handling information, communication, scientific and practical skills, ICT, problem solving, critical analysis, time management and business awareness. The Department also holds a careers fair at which University alumni discuss their careers and advise you on the different options available.
• Other graduates go into a range of professions, including becoming analytical scientists, chemical sales reps, organic synthetic chemists, peptide chemists, research chemists and senior analysts.
• Past students have found work for a range of companies and organisations, including Evotec, Pharmaterials, Intertek, Reed, Police Service, Pfizer, CEM Analytical Services and Thames Water.