Medicinal and Biological Chemistry

Chemistry plays a significant role in our society. It is central to developing drugs, creating vaccines, and treating illnesses.

You will explore the interplay between chemistry and biology to develop an understanding of human disease and drug design. The course is built on core chemistry but also includes modules in physiology and pharmacology. In these modules, you will learn about drug delivery, metabolism and targeting, drug structures and toxicities and cancer agents.

On this integrated masters degree, the fourth year includes masters-level modules and a major research project. You can choose from a wide range of areas in chemistry for what your own project will be on, depending on your interests or career aspirations. You will benefit from the active research and latest insight of our research groups, as well as using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.

In the first year, you will take introductory modules in chemistry, physiology and pharmacology, including practical training. Our Mathematical Toolkit module is designed for students who do not have A level mathematics or equivalent.

In the second year, you will cover topics in physical, inorganic and organic chemistry in more depth. You'll also study modules in spectroscopy, biological chemistry and pharmacology.

In the third year, you will study advanced modules in chemistry and drug discovery. You can also choose from optional modules such as Complementary and Alternative Medicines, and Molecular Microbiology and CRISPR Systems.

In the fourth year, you will be welcomed into one of the research groups within the School of Chemistry to undertake an in-depth research project. All projects will involve a review of relevant published work and the planning and execution of a research topic under the guidance of two supervisors.