Chemistry with a Year in Industry University of Reading

Overview

Throughout this Chemistry with a Year in Industry BSc degree from the University of Reading during the first two years you will learn the core chemistry topics which all chemists need to know. Topics include trends in the periodic table, carbonyl group chemistry and chemical kinetics. You will be taught by world-leading experts through a combination of lectures, lab classes, workshops and tutorials.

Key features

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.

The work placement in your third year gives you the opportunity to gain industrial experience as well as the chance to apply your knowledge and skills to real-life situations. Recent host companies have included GlaxoSmithKline, Unilever and Procter & Gamble.

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.

If you are interested in teaching as a career, we offer a school-based project in your final year. You will 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.

All our chemistry courses are very flexible and, depending on your grades, you can transfer between them at the end of your first or second year.

Career opportunities:

We incorporate skills development into each year of your degree, giving you a better chance of securing work when you leave university. Upon graduation you will have developed 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 and time management.

The experiences gained whilst working in industry also make you highly employable as they demonstrate independence, adaptability and business awareness.

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 in a range of companies and organisations, including Evotec, Pharmaterials, Intertek, Reed, Police Service, Pfizer, CEM Analytical Services and Thames Water.