ObjectivesThe Chemistry Department offers a unique portfolio of high quality courses that are designed to give graduates a varied range of employment opportunities. Although our programmes are carefully structured to ensure students cover all the relevant materials they are also flexible, allowing students the chance to move between many of the different programmes at the end of their first year. Chemistry is a broad discipline and amongst the many courses offered in our Department you will find one that is tailored to your specific interests. We are committed to high quality teaching and student support and we are very active in research. We have internationally recognised research groups specialising in biological chemistry, green chemistry & molecular properties. We take pride in our research-led teaching which ensures that our syllabus is filled with cutting-edge topics and our graduates are ready to work in the chemical industry. Students successfully completing the University of Leicester Sciences Foundation Year Programme can progress automatically to the first year of any of our degrees.
Entry requirementsEntry Requirements * A Levels Three A levels usually required including Chemistry. Two AS levels considered in place of one A level. General Studies accepted. * GCSE: Mathematics is essential if not held at A or AS level. * Access to HE course: Pass, with at least the requisite credits at level 3. * European Baccalaureate: Pass with 65% overall. * International Baccalaureate: Pass Diploma with 30 points. * Leicestershire Progression Accord: 230-270 points as above plus full Accord credits. * BTEC Nationals: Diploma with DMM, plus any subject / GCSE requirements. * Other Qualifications: Other national and international qualifications welcomed. * Mature students welcomed: Alternative qualifications considered. * Second Year Entry: Possible for those with advanced qualifications compatible with our degree structure. * Applicants are normally interviewed. * All applicants receiving an offer will be invited to visit the Department. * These degrees are not available on a part-time basis.
Academic titleBSc Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Course descriptionBSc Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Programme
First and Second Years
The first two years are the same for both the BSc and MChem degrees. The core chemistry modules are supplemented by courses on the basic principles of molecular biochemistry, cellular biology, and physiology necessary for an understanding of the biological action of medicines. The mechanisms of drug action and how they are transported around the body to the site of action are covered in depth. Details of specific medicines involved in the central nervous system are also covered.
Third Year in Industry
You have the option of spending a year in paid employment at a pharmaceutical company. While in industry you will work on a research project, which will be written up as a report and assessed as part of your degree. There are three chemistry modules that must be completed by distance learning.
Final Year
Alongside a set of core chemistry modules, there will be further detailed studies of medicinal topics including cancer, infective diseases, and disease states affecting vital organs. It will be shown how these are treated by modern medicines. Detailed case studies will also be presented on how medicines evolve from an idea to the market place in industry. You will also undertake a research project, which will be assessed as part of your degree.