Course summary

• Develop real-world chemistry problem-solving skills in the context of biological, environmental, materials and pharmaceutical science.
• Gain experience of industrially-relevant analytical instrumentation, modern synthetic techniques and application of computing in chemistry.
• Take the opportunity to complete a work placement – either in the UK or abroad. 
• Transfer onto an MChem route for a specialist year of research intensive study working alongside our internationally recognised researchers

Chemistry impacts everything around you. This course will give you the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to be part of exciting scientific developments that affect all areas of life. 

If you don't meet the entry requirements for our BSc (Hons) courses, or you’d like extra preparation before starting degree-level study, we recommend you join the foundation year. You will build your confidence in biology, chemistry and maths, and apply your theoretical knowledge in practical laboratory sessions. You will also familiarise yourself with Sheffield Hallam’s staff and facilities — ensuring that you are fully prepared to begin at degree level study.

How you learn

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

Throughout the course you will develop practical skills in our state-of-the-art laboratories. You will learn underlying theories that support chemistry – alongside the data analysis, project design and management skills required to be an independent scientist. 

In years 1 and 2 you will gain a breadth of knowledge in physical, organic, inorganic and analytical chemistry. In your final year you have a choice of modules which will allow you to specialise in a specific area of chemistry. 

The foundation course content is delivered and assessed in a variety of innovative and exciting ways, helping you to gain skills required for success on your chosen degree route. You will study 6 modules designed to prepare you for future success while studying one of our bioscience or chemistry degrees. Attending and participating in the laboratory activities is central to your course, as it is where you develop not only practical skills, but also learn to keep effective records and analyse data, as well as working both independently and with others.

You learn through

• core lectures and workshops
• practical lab sessions 
• small group academic tutorials
• field trips
• project work

Course leaders and tutors

Alex Hamilton

Senior Lecturer in Physical Chemistry

My teaching covers all aspects of Physical Chemistry. My research group apply state-of-the-art computational simulations to understand reaction mechanisms and design … Read more

Applied learning

Work placements

You have the opportunity to apply for a year-long work placement between your second and third year – either in the UK or abroad. This gives you a real-world experience to prepare you for your future career. In previous years students have obtained placements in  pharmaceutical and materials chemical industries, scientific recruitment agencies and in education. By securing a placement with one of our industry partners, you will enter the jobs market with a CV that attracts employer attention.

Completion of a year-long work placement will allow you to achieve an Advanced Professional Diploma alongside your degree.

Research Project

During your final year you will combine the skills and knowledge you have gained to undertake a specialist research project working alongside an expert in your chosen subject area. Opportunities are available for both lab and non lab-based science projects allowing you the flexibility to focus on a specific area of interest.

Field trips

Students have benefited from a European field trip to world renowned chemical research facilities. The trip included tours of the facilities, seminars and discussions with leading chemists, as well as exposure to the culture of the region. The majority of the cost for this trip was covered by the university. 

Networking opportunities

The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) will help you to connect with the wider chemistry community. Representatives and staff from Sheffield Hallam’s Chemistry Society (ChemSoc) sit on the committee for the local section of the RSC – so they will keep you up to date with the latest local and national chemistry events.

Competitions

Each year students have the opportunity to showcase their project work to the department of Biosciences and Chemistry, and in the final year at a national chemistry conference gaining invaluable skills in presenting to the scientific community.

Future careers

This course prepares you for a wide range of careers including:

• analytical science
• academic chemistry research 
• pharmaceutical and drug development
• polymer and materials chemistry
• regulatory affairs and chemical patent law
• teaching and education
• scientific sales and recruitment

Previous graduates of this course have gone on to work for world-leading companies such as:

• analytical chemists at AstraZeneca
• biological monitors for the Health and Safety Laboratory
• validation chemists for Waters Ltd
• polymer scientists at Reckitt Benckiser
• communications account manager at Notch Scientific Communications

Many graduates also progress to specialist Masters courses or carry out research for a PhD to enhance their scientific careers.

Where will I study?

You study at City Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

City Campus

City Campus is located in the heart of Sheffield, within minutes of the train and bus stations.

City Campus map | City Campus tour | Keeping safe on Campus

Location

Howard Street
Sheffield
S1 1WB

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Adsetts library

Adsetts Library is located on our City Campus. It's open 24 hours a day, every day.

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Entry requirements

Modules

Module and assessment information for future years is displayed as currently validated and may be liable to change. When selecting electives, your choices will be subject to the core requirements of the course. As a result, selections may be limited to a choice between one of two or more specified electives in some instances.

You will be able to complete a placement year as part of this course. See the modules table below for further information.

Fees and funding

Additional course costs

This link allows you to view estimated costs associated with the main activities on specific courses. These are estimates and, as such, are only an indication of additional course costs. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the choices you make during your course.

Legal information

Any offer of a place to study is subject to your acceptance of the University’s Terms and Conditions and Student Regulations.