Course summary

Study the mathematical techniques that are driving advances in modern chemistry. You'll explore topics ranging from the use of artificial intelligence to predict chemical reactions, to the discovery of new drugs through quantum mechanical modelling. On this three-year degree you’ll combine your passion for chemistry with your talent for maths. This subject has important applications in fields such as: analytical chemistry biotechnology drug discovery nanotechnology programming and computational chemistry You'll gain advanced analytical and statistical skills, with the chance to apply these to practical problems. By choosing from complementary chemistry and maths options you can also tailor your studies to suit your interests. Supporting your studies You’ll join a supportive Chemistry community, with a personal academic tutor to provide any extra help you need, both academically and personally. Your tutorial group will be small, 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 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 – 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 Southampton is a Russell Group university and our chemistry research is joint first in the UK for research intensity (Complete University Guide 2022). This means you’ll be taught by staff who are involved in the latest discoveries. Our academics are advancing battery technology, designing drugs for hard-to-treat cancers, and using digital modelling to develop new medicines, to name just a few examples. They will share their passion with you, bringing the most up-to-date knowledge to your seminars and lectures. The breadth of their research activities gives you a wide choice of project topics. Your career There are a large number of roles outside of scientific research where a strong scientific underpinning is beneficial. This bachelor’s level degree gives an excellent grounding in chemistry and mathematics, and is ideal for those who may not want to pursue research, but see a place for science in their future career. Your mathematical and chemistry skills and knowledge will be valuable in a range of careers including: Accountancy Banking Business analysis Engineering Human resources Management consultancy Marketing Programming and software development Project management Scientific journalism Scientific sales Teaching If you’re not sure what path to choose, a career-focused activities in year two will help you understand the options and map them to your strengths and interests. These activities include talks from industry speakers, giving you a flavour of different career paths. Students interested in teaching can enhance their CVs by volunteering in outreach or chemical education research. There will also be opportunities to get involved in research.