Chemistry

From human health to climate change, chemistry is critical to solving today’s biggest global challenges. On this degree you’ll gain the skills and knowledge you need to make a difference to our world and society.

Study topics that spark your curiosity in areas such as sustainable chemistry, chemical biology and the fast-growing field of computational chemistry – where chemistry and digital skills meet. You’ll carry out experiments in recently refurbished labs, and learn from inspirational academics at a Russell Group university where extraordinary research advances feed into your degree.

You’ll be prepared for a role as a professional chemist or may choose to use your skills in another field. Our graduates have achieved success in sectors including finance, banking, accountancy, sales and marketing, management, patent law and teaching.

Supporting your studies You’ll be part of a supportive Chemistry community, with a personal academic tutor to provide any extra help you need, both academically and personally. During years one and two the size of tutorials is limited to five students, so you’ll have plenty of time and attention from your tutors.

Between classes, the Chemistry department will be your ‘home’ on campus, where you can grab a coffee in the common room, catch up with friends and talk to staff.

Outstanding undergraduate laboratories Ranked 4th in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2024 you can take advantage of our recently refurbished labs, which opened in 2019 as part of a £12m investment in Chemistry’s facilities. You’ll study in bright and spacious modern laboratories using new, high-tech equipment, which is the same as you’ll find if you go on to work in the chemical industry. Each student has a laptop to use in the laboratory, for analysing data and writing laboratory reports.

Gain hands-on practical experience with research-grade equipment such as NMR and IR spectrometers and X-ray diffractometers. You’ll make and analyse your own samples, with full support and training, rather than sending samples to be analysed or watching demonstrations. And your lab work will incorporate modern ‘green’ chemistry practices that are used in industry.

Learn about research as it happens Part of a research-active Russell Group university, Chemistry at Southampton means you’ll be surrounded by trailblazing research, and you’ll be taught by the people who are doing it.

Our academics are advancing battery technology for cleaner energy, designing drugs for hard-to-treat cancers, and using digital modelling in the fight against COVID-19, to name just a few examples. They will share their passion for their specialist areas with you, bringing the most up-to-date knowledge to your seminars and lectures. And you’ll have the opportunity to join one of their research groups, for your third-year project or by doing a summer placement.