Chemistry. Courses at the University of Plymouth

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1 Chemistry Courses at the University of Plymouth

2 Contents 1 Welcome 2 Why study Chemistry at the University of Plymouth? 8 BSc (Hons) Analytical Chemistry 10 BSc (Hons) Chemistry 12 A - Z of module descriptions The university is committed to providing information in accessible formats. If you require this information in an alternative format please contact: Faculty of Science Tel: +44 (0) science@plymouth.ac.uk Centre for Chemical Sciences chemistry@plymouth.ac.uk Accommodation Office +44 (0) accommodation@plymouth.ac.uk Careers +44 (0) careers@plymouth.ac.uk International Office +44 (0) international@plymouth.ac.uk Routes to Higher Education routes@plymouth.ac.uk Student Funding Unit +44 (0) studentfunding@plymouth.ac.uk University of Plymouth

3 Welcome to the Centre for Chemical Sciences at the University of Plymouth. Chemistry is an established, exciting and rapidly growing science that affects all our lives. The chemical sciences are collectively the largest contributor to the national economy and the study of chemistry is vital for the management of the natural world. The subject has been a feature of higher education at the University of Plymouth for more than 25 years. Within the Centre for Chemical Sciences (CCS) our staff are a key strength, being friendly, enthusiastic and professional. They are specialists in their fields and all have active research interests, spanning organic geochemistry to solid-fluid interactions, environmental and marine chemistry and sensors. Our chemistry degree courses allow you to develop your specific chemical interests. As a chemist with a wide range of practical and professional skills, you will be in great demand in the market place, where there is a wide range of opportunities from research and development to manufacturing and quality assurance. Our degree courses are recognised by the Royal Society of Chemistry, the professional body representing chemistry in the UK. At the University of Plymouth you can be sure that you will acquire the skills and knowledge to make a difference. With a choice of course options, you can also ensure that you choose the right degree for you. Whether your selection is dictated by personal interest or by your career aspirations, Plymouth has something to offer you. To find out more about what is happening at the CCS, you can visit our website at We look forward to welcoming you to Plymouth. The Chemistry Teaching Team University of Plymouth 1

4 Why study Chemistry at the University of Plymouth? Our teaching and learning We strive to deliver teaching of the highest quality and provide the best possible learning experience for our students. Our chemistry teaching received an excellent rating in the most recent subject review by the Government s audit agency. Positive features quoted by the review included: well constructed and coherent courses excellent information provided for students outstanding teaching quality well-qualified and extremely enthusiastic staff who showed a genuine desire to support students in their learning 2 University of Plymouth a significant number of staff who are actively engaged in research and this impacts directly on a number of modules, informing teaching and learning. As well as a full and varied lecture programme, you will benefit from regular laboratory experience, fieldwork, tutorials, seminars and group and individual projects. Regular student-staff meetings will provide you with further opportunities to share your study experience and enhance your learning. For more information visit Teaching and learning facilities The University of Plymouth is committed to investing in its facilities with refurbishments of existing buildings, especially laboratories. Recent improvements include ISO9001:2008 accreditation, a substantial expansion of library facilities and a resource centre accessible 24/7. The University of Plymouth has excellent teaching and learning facilities for chemistry, including: awards for chemistry teaching refurbished chemistry teaching labs a full range of modern analytical instrumentation a library stocked with a comprehensive range of text books and leading research journals internationally recognised research groups.

5 Academic support You will meet your personal tutor at the beginning of the course, and he/she will provide academic, professional and personal support while you are with us. You will also be assigned a student mentor, from the final year chemistry student group, who will be able to advise you on the day-to-day business of being a student at Plymouth. Research The Centre for Chemical Sciences (CCS) is part of the School of Earth, Ocean and Environmental Sciences and CCS staff all work within internationally-recognised research groups. CCS staff offer particular strengths in analytical chemistry, marine chemistry, organic geochemistry, and solid-fluid interactions and sensors. Working alongside CCS staff, PhD students and post doctoral fellows, you will have an opportunity to play a part in our research programmes, which will provide you with excellent skills and experience for a career in chemistry. International study opportunities The university operates an international exchange programme (ISEP) and you may choose to complete the second year of your studies at one of several North American (USA or Canada) universities with whom we have an agreement. Work placements In your final year of study you will have the opportunity to arrange a work placement as part of your research project. University of Plymouth 3

6 How your studies will be assessed You will accumulate modular credits as part of the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS). As an undergraduate student, you are expected to gain 120 credits in an academic year. The normal unit of study is a 20-credit module taught across the academic year. Approximately two-thirds of the course is assessed by coursework and the remainder by examination. University examinations are held at the end of the academic year. Transfer between courses Our chemistry courses share first and second year modules and it is possible to transfer to another chemistry degree course at the end of the second year, should you change your mind about your original choice. If you have a disability The university is very supportive of students with disabilities, and year-on-year we are making adjustments to assist students with special needs. If you have any kind of disability, please advise us of this as soon as possible. If we can identify your needs sufficiently far in advance of when you intend to start a course at the university, we are better able to put in place appropriate arrangements. This is particularly important for courses with laboratory and fieldwork requirements, which may have health and safety implications both for you and for other students. If you would like further information, please contact the university s Disability Assist Services by ing das@plymouth.ac.uk or telephoning +44 (0) to discuss your needs. Why study Chemistry at the University of Plymouth? 4 University of Plymouth

7 International students Returning to study We welcome applications from international students and have produced a special guide to help you through the application process. The guide also details all of the support services that will be available to you, including: a pre-arrival information pack the international student Orientation Programme the International Students Support Unit free English support classes various Students Union societies accommodation information. If you have not received a copy yet or you need any further help or advice, please do not hesitate to contact staff in the International Office on +44 (0) or international@plymouth.ac.uk The University of Plymouth operates a flexible admissions policy that caters for the individuality of all students - our admissions staff will give advice and guidance tailored to each person s specific circumstances and experiences. They will take into account your work and life experience, your degree of motivation and ability to succeed, your formal qualifications and any appropriate recent study. They will also be able to provide advice on the most suitable way forward for those who may not yet be qualified to begin an honours degree course. The Routes to Higher Education Enquiry Service also exists for prospective undergraduate adult learners who may require information, advice and guidance. For further information and/or an information pack, contact +44 (0) or routes@plymouth.ac.uk University of Plymouth 5

8 Why study Chemistry at the University of Plymouth? Location How to apply Plymouth is the ideal environment to study chemistry. We are a leading centre for analytical chemistry in the UK, and you will have the opportunity to use our extensive range of modern instrumentation. Our focus on laboratory skills ensures that students become confident and competent in practical skills from day one. You will develop meaningful professional skills and participate in some of the exciting research in chemistry that is undertaken at Plymouth. For more information visit You apply through the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). You will need a UCAS form, which enables you to apply simultaneously for five course/institution combinations, and a UCAS directory listing all the institutions and courses. The UCAS deadline for applications is 15 January. Each course has its own particular criteria for entry in the form of UCAS tariff points. Both international and mature students are very welcome. Overseas qualifications will be calculated to the UK equivalent and mature student applications considered on an individual basis. For applicants whose qualifications were not taken in English, you will be asked to provide evidence of your English language ability. For more information visit or 6 University of Plymouth

9 We offer you: Excellent graduate employment prospects. A practical course - 70:30 coursework:exam. Courses that are recognised by the Royal Society of Chemistry. Innovations in teaching - software, teaching materials and methods, technology. A commitment to excellence in teaching and research. A personal tutor and student mentor allowing you easy access to advice. Course committees, for you to have a say in how the course is run. Modern library facilities, study skills, Chaplaincy, counselling, disability assistance. Courses that have received national awards for curriculum development from the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Higher Education Academy. Unparalleled hands-on training with all instrumentation. Guest lecturers from industry and other external agencies. Visiting the university Introduction to the courses Visiting is the best way to get a feel for a place. The university holds an open day in June and October each year, where you can meet staff and current students, tour the campus, view accommodation and explore the local area. The Faculty of Science holds a number of preview days from January-March. You will be invited to attend one of these days if you are offered a place on one of our courses. These days are designed to help you find out as much as possible about studying chemistry at Plymouth, leaving you plenty of time to decide which university course is best for you. There are two chemistry degree courses available at Plymouth; the one you choose will depend upon your interests, aptitude and career plans. Both single honours courses share a common first and second year, allowing you to develop your interests and possible specialism, as well as giving you the flexibility to change courses if you feel that your original choice isn t the right one. The final year allows you to specialise, by taking modules that are pertinent to your degree title along with common core chemistry modules and a research project. BSc (Hons) Analytical Chemistry In addition to extensive knowledge and practical chemistry skills, you will develop an in-depth understanding of modern analytical instrumentation and its role in 21st century sciences, including pharmaceutical, forensic and environmental investigations. BSc (Hons) Chemistry As a graduate in chemistry you will have the knowledge and practical skills essential to the modern chemist. In addition, you will acquire expertise in key areas of chemistry. University of Plymouth 7

10 BSc (Hons) Analytical Chemistry Entry requirements UCAS tariff points required 300 points from a minimum of three A levels to include Chemistry grade B. AS levels considered as part of A level offer. Other combinations and non-a level qualifications also considered. UCAS code: F180 Subject summary Careers As a leading centre for analytical chemistry with state-of-the-art instrumentation, we are looking for exceptional, well-qualified and highly motivated students to take part in this highly rated and hands-on course, taught by award winning staff. You will gain a thorough grounding in core chemistry and analytical techniques throughout the course, and will gain competence in the use of state-of-the-art instrumentation from early on, via a theoretical and practical approach. These competencies are built on in your first and second years so that you have the ability to carry out leading edge analytical studies in the final year. Special features of the course include a research project, working within an internationally-recognised research group and a specialist module in forensic analysis. We have extensive links with employers, including local and multinational companies. Recent employers include Astra Zeneca, Avecia and the Laboratory of the Government Chemist. There are many opportunities for further study (eg MSc, MRes and PhD). 8 University of Plymouth

11 Your first year Your second year Final year The first year provides you with the essential skills and knowledge for a degree in chemistry. Whilst fundamental principles are important, illustrations are drawn from real life whenever possible. You will take all of the modules outlined below. First year modules Chemical problem solving and information technology Inorganic chemistry 1 Numerical methods in chemistry Organic chemistry 1 Physical chemistry 1 Professional scientific skills 1 During your second year you will begin to appreciate the differences between analytical and applied chemistry. Hence, you will be able to make an informed choice about which degree you pursue. Second year modules Analytical chemistry Analytical instrumentation Inorganic chemistry 2 Organic chemistry 2 Physical chemistry 2 Professional scientific skills 2 Your final year focuses on advanced chemistry (organic, inorganic and physical) and the development of analytical techniques. You will undertake a research project within an internationally recognised research group, giving you the opportunity to develop hands-on practical skills with state-ofthe-art research instrumentation. Final year modules Advanced analytical techniques 1 Advanced analytical techniques 2 Contemporary chemical Issues Forensic analysis Research project and professional skills or Work-based learning and professional skills University of Plymouth 9

12 BSc (Hons) Chemistry Entry requirements UCAS tariff points required Minimum of 260 points which must be from at least two A levels (including Chemistry grade B). AS levels considered as part of A level offer. Other combinations and non-a level qualifications also considered. UCAS code: F100 Subject summary Careers During your three years you will learn core chemistry skills, including laboratory techniques that will form the basis of your chemistry training. Good laboratory practice is an essential skill for the professional chemist, so you will receive extensive training in laboratory skills along with theoretical chemistry. These skills will be developed as you progress through the course. You will also have the opportunity to carry out fieldwork and apply instrumental analytical techniques on leading edge instruments, so that you have a range of competencies to underpin your career prospects as a practising chemist. With enhanced knowledge and understanding of chemistry, graduates of this course often enter industry in research and development, quality assurance, manufacturing and product support. Recent employers of graduates of this course include GlaxoSmithKline, BP, Exxon, Nalco, Perkin Elmer and local employers Kernow Analytical Technology. 10 University of Plymouth

13 Your first year Your second year Your final year The first year provides you with the essential skills and knowledge for a degree in chemistry. Whilst fundamental principles are important, illustrations are drawn from real life whenever possible. You will take all of the modules listed below. Year one modules Chemical problem solving and information technology Inorganic chemistry 1 Numerical methods in chemistry Organic chemistry 1 Physical chemistry 1 Professional scientific skills 1 During your second year you will begin to appreciate the differences between the four branches of chemistry, allowing you to make an informed choice about which degree you pursue. Second year modules Analytical chemistry Analytical instrumentation Inorganic chemistry 2 Organic chemistry 2 Physical chemistry 2 Professional scientific skills 2 At this stage you will study chemistry at an advanced level, explore contemporary chemical issues and undertake chemical research project, enabling you to gain extensive hands-on experience with modern instrumentation. Final year modules Advanced inorganic chemistry Advanced organic chemistry Advanced physical chemistry Contemporary chemical issues Research project and professional skillls or Work-based leaning and professional skills University of Plymouth 11

14 First year module descriptions Chemical problem solving and information technology You will use a wide variety of software applications, including presentation, word processing, spreadsheet, molecular drawing and modelling, and information retrieval packages. You will investigate instrument/computer interfacing and the fundamentals and architecture of modern computer programmes. Organic chemistry 1 This module provides an introduction to fundamental theoretical concepts and practical skills in organic chemistry. These include structure and bonding, spectroscopy, the reactions of organic compounds and mechanistic organic chemistry. It also provides training in fundamental practical techniques and good laboratory practice. Inorganic chemistry 1 This module provides an introduction to fundamental theoretical concepts and practical skills in inorganic chemistry. These include structure and bonding, chemical properties and the Periodic Table. It also provides training in fundamental practical techniques and good laboratory practice. Physical chemistry 1 This module provides an introduction to fundamental theoretical concepts and practical skills in physical chemistry. These include spectroscopy, the states of matter, thermodynamics and reaction kinetics. It also provides training in fundamental practical techniques and good laboratory practice. Numerical methods in chemistry You will gain a professional understanding of the concepts of chemistry, and the ability to apply them. This requires a solid grounding in mathematics and statistics and the module will help you acquire an understanding of the principles and tools needed. Professional scientific skills 1 A workshop based module, which provides vital professional and scientific skills for future employability, including career preparation. Second year module descriptions Analytical chemistry In this module you will learn about the fundamental aspects of analytical chemistry, including the concepts of precision and accuracy and their importance. Analytical instrumentation This module will allow you to apply the information learned in the analytical chemistry module. You will gain practical skills (including sample handling and data treatment) and theoretical knowledge in a range of instrumental analytical techniques. 12 University of Plymouth

15 Inorganic chemistry 2, organic chemistry 2, physical chemistry 2 These modules build on the fundamental theoretical concepts and practical skills in inorganic, organic and physical chemistry that were initiated during the first year. They also provide extensive further training in practical techniques and good laboratory practice. Professional scientific skills 2 Professional skills play an important role in the development of a chemistry graduate. This module will help you to develop written and oral communication skills within the context of chemistry, including research skills and career preparation. Final year module descriptions Advanced analytical techniques 1 You will learn about advanced practical concepts in a broad range of analytical techniques. You will also gain hands-on experience on a variety of research grade instruments. This module will also support research project work and the theory covered in the module advanced analytical techniques 2. Advanced analytical techniques 2 You will encounter advanced theoretical concepts in a broad range of analytical techniques, covering both inorganic and organic analysis. Analytical instrumentation You will be introduced to the chemistry of natural products, their relevance and applications in the aroma industry and other key areas of applied chemistry. Advanced inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry These provide specialist training in selected areas relevant to the expertise of the academic staff. Eg molecular interactions, radiochemistry, natural products, advanced spectroscopy. Contemporary chemical issues This module provides an opportunity for you to investigate some novel areas of contemporary chemistry, particularly those which are at the interface with biology, physics and technology. The topics will also focus on the research expertise of academic staff. Forensic analysis This module covers theoretical and practical aspects of key forensic analysis techniques and their applications including DNA profiling, drug analysis, forensic toxicology, optical and electron microscopy, alcohol analysis and arson. Research project and professional skills You will choose and undertake an independent research project, normally involving laboratory work, but which may also include fieldwork, on a topic relevant to the degree course. Alternatively, you will have the opportunity to arrange a work-based placement outside the university as part of your research project. Independent work is linked to the development of skills appropriate to the management of the project and entry and success in the professional workplace. You will work within a research group and be supervised by a member of the Chemistry Team. University of Plymouth 13

16 This publication is printed on 75% recycled materials with soya based dyes. The descriptions in this brochure are correct at the time of printing, but the structure and content of our courses are regularly reviewed to reflect current developments. Admissions requirements may be subject to change. For the latest information, and for further details please visit our website Faculty of Science, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA Tel: +44 (0) Fax: +44 (0)