Chemistry (MChem)

    Chemistry (MChem)

    Duration5 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    GBP 48,683 / year(s)
    Next IntakeSeptember 1, 2026
    Chemistry (MChem)

    About

    Introducing MChem Chemistry

    What is Chemistry?

    Chemistry is the study of atoms, molecules and ions — their structures, properties, synthesis and interactions with each other.

    The subject covers a wide range, from simple compounds like sodium chloride to complex molecules such as DNA.

    The importance of Chemistry

    A knowledge of Chemistry informs understanding of Science, Technology and Engineering.

    A modern chemist can make significant contributions to a sustainable and healthy future. Some examples of contributions include the development of:

    • efficient renewable energy sources
    • smart materials and devices
    • targeted medicinal therapies

    A chemistry degree from our University provides the framework for understanding the properties of molecules, from the basics to the cutting edge of today's research.

    The degree focuses on the analytical and experimental skills needed to practice the subject. It also provides insight into research through a final-year research project.

    Studying chemistry at the University of Edinburgh

    What do our students think?

    Disciplines

    Chemistry

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    Standard entry requirement

    The standard entry requirement is:

    • SQA Highers: AAAB by end of S5 or AAAA by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6.
    • A Levels: AAA - ABB in one set of exams.
    • IB: 37 points with 666 at HL - 32 points with 655 at HL.

    Minimum entry requirement

    The minimum entry requirement for widening access applicants is:

    • SQA Highers: AABB by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6.
    • A Levels: ABB.
    • IB: 32 points with 655 at HL.

    More information for widening access applicants

    Required subjects

    The grades used to meet our entry requirements must include:

    • SQA: Highers: Mathematics at A and Chemistry at B. Higher Applications of Mathematics is not accepted in place of Higher Mathematics. Advanced Higher Mathematics and Chemistry are recommended. National 5s: English at C.
    • A Levels: Chemistry and Mathematics at B. GCSEs: English at C or 4.
    • IB: HL: Chemistry and Mathematics (Analysis and approaches only) at 5. SL: English at 5 and Mathematics (Analysis and approaches only) at 6 (if not at HL).

    Find out more about entry requirements

    International applicants

    We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.

    Entry requirements by country

    Mature applicants

    We welcome applications from mature students and accept a range of qualifications.

    Mature applicant qualifications

    English Requirements

    • IELTSMin 6.5

    English Program Requirements

    Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency which will enable you to succeed in your studies..

    SQA, GCSE and IB

    For SQA, GCSE and IB students, unless a higher level is specified in the stated entry requirements, a pass is required in English at the following grades or higher:

    • SQA National 5 at C
    • GCSE at C or 4
    • Level 2 Certificate at C
    • IB Standard Level at 5 (English ab initio is not accepted for entry)

    English language tests

    We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

    • IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
    • TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
    • C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE): total 176 with at least 162 in each component.
    • Trinity ISE: ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
    • PTE Academic: total 65 with at least 54 in each component. We do not accept PTE Academic Online.
    • Oxford ELLT: 7 overall with at least 5 in each component.*

    We also accept a wider range of international qualifications and tests.

    Unless you are a national of a majority English speaking country, your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start of the month in which the degree you are applying to study begins. If you are using an IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL, Oxford ELLT, or Trinity ISE test, it must be no more than two years old on the first of the month in which the degree begins, regardless of your nationality.

    English language requirements

    (*Revised 24 May 2024 to change PTE Academic requirement from total 62 with at least 54 in each component, and to clarify that we do not accept PTE Academic online. Revised 29 August 2024 to add Oxford ELLT requirements.)

    Career

    Most of our chemistry graduates find careers in chemical or pharmaceutical companies.

    They also use their numerical, problem-solving and analytical skills in sectors such as:

    • business
    • banking
    • accountancy
    • marketing
    • advertising
    • the IT sector

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    48,683 / year(s)
    Chemistry (MChem)
    The University of Edinburgh
    The University of Edinburgh
    United Kingdom

    United Kingdom, Edinburgh

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