Chemistry deals with the composition, structure and behaviour of the atoms and molecules that make up all forms of matter. The Chemistry sector provides materials to feed, drugs to fight disease and science to help protect the environment. The career possibilities upon completion of a Chemistry degree are many.
Understanding the world at an atomic level is essential to all areas of science and an undergraduate degree in Chemistry from a UK university will prepare students for scientific careers in business and industry, or for postgraduate study in chemistry.
Many UK universities offer degrees in chemistry, but selected institutions excel. Factors that go into a university performing well include graduate prospects, industry connections and student satisfaction scores, and you can learn more about the top five UK universities (Guardian University Guide 2021) to study chemistry below.
If you have any questions about studying in the UK, do not hesitate to arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.
Top Five UK Universities for Chemistry
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford has been named as the best university in the world for five years running (Times Higher Education World Rankings) and is also the oldest university in the English speaking world. The University comprises 39 colleges, over 100 libraries and more than one third of Oxford’s student body is international with 10,900 students from across 160 countries and territories.
What the University say: “Oxford has one of the leading chemistry departments in the world with state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories and world-class research in a broad range of areas including: synthesis and catalysis; medicinal and biological chemistry; sustainable energy; advanced materials; innovative measurement; and theoretical and computational chemistry.”
- Course to consider: Chemistry MChem
2. Durham University
Durham University is a collegiate public research university in northern England, founded in 1837. As a collegiate university its main functions are divided between the academic departments of the university and its 17 colleges. Durham has a strong Employability and Careers team and is ranked in the top 55 universities in the world for Employer Reputation as per the QS World Rankings 2022.
What the University say: “The BSc course is an ideal preparation for those who want to demonstrate their degree-level literacy, numeracy and independent study skills prior to a career in, for example, finance or management. The degree concludes with a final year research-led, literature-based dissertation, in which you explore and critically analyse an area of chemistry literature, demonstrating the research skills you have developed.”
- Course to consider: BSc Chemistry
3. University of Lincoln
The University of Lincoln is set within the historic city of Lincoln on the beautiful Brayford Pool city-centre campus. Lincoln was ranked TEF Gold for teaching quality, and the University is in the top 20 for student experience in the UK (11th out of 131) in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021.
What the University say: “At Lincoln, we aim to integrate the core chemistry disciplines with advanced topics aligned to the major scientific challenges of the 21st Century. These include nanoscience for new materials and devices, the chemistry-biology interface for drug discovery, nuclear chemistry for safe energy generation, biotechnology for new manufacturing methods, and sensors for forensic medical and environmental applications.”
- Course to consider: BSc Chemistry
4. University of St Andrews
As a 600-year-old institution, it's no surprise that the University of St Andrews is known across the globe as a world leader in education. St Andrews' is Scotland’s top university and ranked 2nd overall in the UK (Guardian Good University Guide 2021).
What the University say: “At St Andrews, you will be prepared for a career in chemical-related industries such as fuels, pharmaceuticals and fragrances. You will also be able to concentrate on our key chemical specialties such as materials, medicinal , molecular and nanotechnology.”
- Course to consider: Chemistry MChem
5. University of Bristol
The University of Bristol is ranked 62nd in the world (QS World University Rankings 2022), is in the top 10 most targeted universities by top UK employers (High Fliers 2021) and has 11 subjects in the world top 50 (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022). Based in Bristol, one of the UK’s most thriving and creative cities, you’ll enjoy the freedom and excitement of living in a big city, but within a safe and supportive campus community.
What the University say: "We are one of the UK's elite chemistry departments, recognised globally for world class research and teaching. We attract outstanding faculty, researchers and students from all parts of the world. The BSc Chemistry programme offers a superb grounding in chemistry with the opportunity to specialise in your final year."
- Course to consider: BSc Chemistry
Study Chemistry in the UK
If you need further advice about what is required to study Chemistry in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today. Our international consultants can help you find the right course to study in the UK at foundation, undergraduate or postgraduate level.
