About this course
Increase your knowledge of chemistry theory while carrying out a major research project on this Chemistry by Research MSc at the 黑料社. You鈥檒l work with one of our many chemistry research groups and benefit from specialist facilities as you develop practical skills and in-depth understanding in your chosen field. After graduating, you鈥檒l be in the perfect position to continue your studies in a PhD in chemistry or start a career in industry.
On this research-intensive UK chemistry research master鈥檚 course, you鈥檒l specialise in a research area of your choice, and work within one of our 7 chemistry research groups:
- Computational Systems
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical Biology, Diagnostics and Therapeutics
- Magnetic Resonance
- Organic Chemistry: Synthesis, Catalysis and Flow
- Characterisation and Analytics
- Functional Inorganic, Materials and Supramolecular Chemistry
Alongside the research project, which you鈥檒l work on throughout the year, you鈥檒l study a range of topics relating to your chosen specialism.
These could include:
- synthesis
- advanced structural, analytical and spectroscopic techniques
- materials chemistry
- modelling
- biological and medicinal chemistry
- Electrochemistry
Alongside the main course content, we鈥檒l also offer you training in areas such as laboratory safety and professional skills, such as data analysis and presenting, which will be useful in your future career.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Course lead
Your course leader is Dr Guy Denuault, Associate Professor in Electrochemistry. His research focuses on electroanalytical chemistry with particular emphasis on the theory and application of microelectrodes, scanning electrochemical microscopy, nanostructured microelectrodes, and the modelling of electrochemical processes. Read Dr Denuault鈥檚 staff profile to find out more about his work.
鈥淭he University offers a great learning environment, especially for master鈥檚 students who study in the chemistry department.鈥
Learn more about this subject area
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the 黑料社.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
You鈥檒l need a 2:1 degree in:
- chemistry
- biochemistry
- physics
- polymer science
- environmental sciences
- material science
- mathematics
Your degree must have at least 50% chemistry content.
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don鈥檛 meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Pre-masters
If you don鈥檛 meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus. .
Recognition of professional experience
If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we鈥檒l assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.
Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This is a full-time master鈥檚 course. You鈥檒l study for 12 months, from September to the following September.
The taught part of the course runs from September to June (semesters 1 and 2). This consists of modules that you鈥檒l choose with the help of your academic supervisor to reflect your chosen specialism.
The research part of the course runs for the whole year.
Exams take place at the end of semesters 1 and 2.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules :
MSc Research Project
Scientific writing and presentation skills for Chemistry MSc
This module involves the completion of a literature review in preparation for the student鈥檚 MSc dissertation project. The results of the literature review are presented in a written report and in a short oral presentation. To support the preparation of th...
You must also choose from the following modules :
Advanced Chemical Biology
Advanced Organic Chemistry (Bioorganic)
Advanced Physical Chemistry
The course deals with the nature of surfaces, both real and ideal, the energetics of adsorption at surfaces and adsorption isotherms, and the charge distribution at the liquid/solid interface. The kinetics of reactions at interfaces, including the role of...
Advanced Spectroscopy and Applications
Modern spectroscopic techniques underpin a wide range of chemical and biological research as well as serving as a valuable analytical tool. This module will introduce some of the key principles, tools and techniques that govern spectroscopic measurements ...
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Chemistry
The aim of the module is to expose the students to modern chemical informatics, machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) driven approaches for computational modelling and prediction, illustrated with applications to research in to the discov...
Atoms, Molecules and Spins: Quantum Mechanics in Chemistry and Spectroscopy
This module aims to develop an intermediate-level understanding of quantum mechanics, including familiarity with its mathematical formulation. It is intended to bridge the gap between the qualitative, pictorial approach used in the core modules of the fir...
Battery Materials and Characterisation
This module examines key features of cell design and of materials used in batteries. It links this to a range of techniques that are commonly used to study cell architecture and structure, composition and surface chemistry of battery materials. Emphasis i...
Battery Technologies and their Applications
The development of energy storage technologies plays a critical role in the transition to an environmentally sustainable society and improving people's quality of living. Energy storage technologies are necessary in a variety of very important application...
Chemistry through the Computational Microscope
This module builds on the student鈥檚 core understanding of the structure of atoms and molecules to predict their behaviour using state-of-the art computational chemistry methods. This will involve learning how quantum chemistry methods can be used to st...
Ethics in Science, Engineering and Technology: Jekyll and Hyde
Starting from the underlying themes in Jekyll and Hyde, wherein a scientific discovery can be seen as having both beneficial (Dr. Jekyll) and detrimental aspects (Mr. Hyde), this module delves into the general area of the ethics and social responsibility ...
Inorganic Materials Chemistry
Introduction to Electrochemistry I
Electrochemistry is a foundation stone for many exciting developments in, for example, chemistry, biology and materials, and it is also central to many technologies essential to modern living. In this course, you will learn about the key fundamental proce...
Introduction to Electrochemistry II
Electrochemistry is an important area of physical science covering many interesting and important topics of current scientific research. For example, it is key to the development of new power sources (batteries, fuel cells and supercapacitors) as well as...
Macrocyclic and Bio-inorganic Chemistry
This module explores some of the distinguishing features of metal ion complexes bearing macrocyclic ligands and some of the key structural and functional roles of metal ions in biology and medicine. The module serves as an introduction to these important ...
Mass Spectrometry: Theory and Application
Mass spectrometry is the key enabling technology for the 21st century. It delivers practical and sustainable innovations to enable significant advancements in areas such as healthcare delivery, life sciences, environmental management, energy, food safety,...
Medicinal Chemistry
Medicinal Chemistry is pivotal in the design, synthesis and evaluation of new medicines, and involves multidisciplinary research at the interface of Chemistry, Biology and Medicine. This module will introduce key molecular concepts and methods in Medicina...
Modelling in Electrochemistry
Electrode reactions are inherently complex as they involve interfacial charge transfer, mass transport, many species, different timescales, thermodynamics and kinetics, as well as chemical, material and electrical properties. Furthermore the electron tran...
NMR Spectroscopy: Theory and Application
NMR spectroscopy is a powerful analytical tool: by combining a wide range of 1D and 2D NMR experiments, the assignment of functional groups, atom connectivity and 3D molecular structure can be undertaken. This module will be delivered with a focus on pra...
Principles, Techniques and Energy Applications of Electrochemistry
Electrochemistry is an important area of science covering many interesting and important topics of current scientific research. For example, it is key to the development of new power sources (for example new batteries, fuel cells and supercapacitors) as ...
Stereoselective Reactions
Supramolecular Chemistry of Functional Molecules and Materials
This module will explore the fundamental basis of intermolecular interactions and illustrate how these can be exploited to form diverse supramolecular assemblies ranging from small molecules, soft gels and hard extended inorganic solids. The course will p...
Sustainable Chemistry
Synthetic Methods in Organic Chemistry
Carbon-carbon bond forming reactions lie at the heart of organic synthesis. In this course we will cover methods for carbon-carbon bond formation using carbanions and radicals, and through thermally and photochemically induced pericyclic processes. The si...
X-Ray Crystallographic Techniques, Advanced Main Group Chemistry and Applications
X-Ray Diffraction as a Characterisation Method
Students will become familiar with the types of information that x-ray diffraction can provide on the structure of a wide variety of samples. They will gain an understanding of the underlying principles and learn how to apply these to conduct the most app...
Learning and assessment
Learning
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- tutorials
- seminars
- workshops
- presentations
- independent learning (studying on your own)
- a research project
Assessment
We鈥檒l assess you through:
- coursework
- written exams
- a dissertation
Dissertation
You鈥檒l spend a year conducting an original piece of chemistry research. You'll write up your findings in a dissertation.
The project is a chance for you to develop your research skills and show in-depth knowledge of your subject.
You鈥檒l work closely with a supervisor to choose your research topic, and have regular support meetings throughout the process.
Academic Support
You鈥檒l be assigned a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Careers and employability
The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.
Download skills overview
Career pathways
Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:
Manufacturing,
Scientific and Technical,
Water and Waste Management,
Education,
Public Administration,
Defence,
Finance.
- Analytical chemist
- Associate scientist
- Energy engineer
- Academic researcher
- Colour technologist
- Forensic scientist
- Nanotechnologist
- Pharmacologist
- Toxicologist
- Biotechnologist
- Business development executive
- Data analyst
- Software developer
- Financial advisor
- Chartered accountant
- Secondary school teacher
- Management consultant
- Environmental consultant
- Clinical scientist
- Electrochemistry researcher
- Manufacturing engineer
- Pharmacy support worker
- Regulatory and compliance administrator
- Science teacher
Work experience opportunities
Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.
Careers services and support
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV and interview skills and workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, , is open to every student.
Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay 拢9,250.
- EU and international students pay 拢31,500.
Deposit
If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay 拢2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.
Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.
Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on our tuition fees for overseas students page.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.
Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
10% alumni discount
If you鈥檙e a graduate of the 黑料社, you could be eligible for a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
Postgraduate Master鈥檚 Loans (UK nationals only)
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. .
Southampton Chemistry Postgraduate International Scholarship
A scholarship of 拢3,000 is available to international students studying for a postgraduate master鈥檚 in Chemistry.
Find out more about the Southampton Chemistry Postgraduate International Scholarship, including eligibility and conditions.
Southampton Chemistry Deans International Scholarship
Four scholarships offer international students 拢5,000 off their first year of study of chemistry and chemical engineering at either undergraduate or postgraduate level.
Find out more about the Southampton Chemistry Deans International Scholarship, including eligibility, deadlines and how to apply.
Other postgraduate funding options
A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master鈥檚 study. Both from the University and other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
- Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
- Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. .
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Pay the 拢50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions, check terms and conditions).
- Submit your application.
For further details of our admission process, read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.
Application deadlines
UK students
The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time.
We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.
International students
The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time.
We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.
Application assessment fee
We鈥檒l ask you to pay a 拢50 application assessment fee if you鈥檙e applying for a postgraduate taught course.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You鈥檒l be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won鈥檛 progress until you've paid.
If you're a current or former 黑料社 student, or if you鈥檙e applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you鈥檙e exempt on our terms and conditions page.
Supporting information
When you apply you鈥檒l need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You鈥檒l need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to submit two academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application.
If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.
Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.
We may invite you to an interview, which will take place by phone if you live abroad. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if we'd like to talk to you before offering you a place.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
