Our courses are flexible so switching between courses is usually no problem within the first two years. This allows you to get a feel for the type of chemistry you most enjoy before making your final decision on what to study. There are many different disciplines within chemistry which will suit different types of students.
In common with most UK university chemistry departments, we offer both Bachelors (BSc Hons) and undergraduate Masters (MChem Hons) degree programs. The benefits of the Scottish higher education system in providing these over 4 and 5 years respectively are substantial in terms of both the breadth and flexibility of the curriculum, particularly during the early years of study. The benefits of this approach include:
Over recent years, we have seen about 20% of students take the direct entry option, although considerably more of our entrants are qualified to do so, thus reducing the duration of their degrees to 3 or 4 years respectively.
A further attractive option available to MChem students involves a one year industrial placement or an exchange with one of our partner universities overseas, undertaken during the penultimate year of their degree. In 2011/12 a total of 60 students (approximately 50% of the class) will take advantage of one of these opportunities. The benefits resulting from these experiences in terms of both academic and personal development and future employability are very substantial.
The international exchange opportunities are equally diverse, with host universities located across Europe and in Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, Russia and Taiwan. Although students taking part in these placement and exchange years remain fully matriculated with the university, and the quality of their work contributes substantially to their final degree program assessment, their tuition fees are reduced by 50% during their period away from Edinburgh.
After two consecutive years of being runner up in the Edinburgh University Students Association (EUSA) Teaching Awards for Best Department, the School finally won the Award outright against stiff competition. The Award was presented in an Oscars-style ceremony on Wed. 23rd March.
This a tribute to all of the hard work and commitment from academic and support staff, postgraduate students, and postdoctoral researchers who all contribute to the delivery of teaching in the School. We should also like to thank our undergraduate students who nominated us for the Award. You can see the award online.
One of the student comments accompanying the nomination: "Chemistry is an incredibly organised department, providing quick and helpful information on all accounts. The staff in the chemistry department are among the most helpful I've had, taking plenty of time to ensure students have help and support at every turn."
This achievement was augmented by the award of Best Director of Studies to Dr Murray Low. A great night for the School!
Teaching is carried out in three main ways:
Lectures are given by experts in their field and lead from the basics all the way up to the advanced concepts that will form the foundation of your study from third year onwards. They provide a solid grounding in the subject and will give you a chance to meet a lot of the academics in the School.
Our modern programme of courses allows you to study cutting-edge chemistry in a number of different areas. Not only do you benefit from the expertise of our staff and the flexible nature of our courses, you'll also be studying in an exciting, vibrant city. You will study with students from all over the world and graduate with all the skills necessary to succeed in your chosen career.
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