Join the fight against disease by learning how to create better and safer drugs for society with a degree in Chemistry for Drug Discovery and Development.
Our BSc (Hons) Chemistry for Drug Discovery and Development aims to develop skills in the design and development of active molecules, all the way through to the final pharmaceutical products available to patients. Students can gain knowledge of synthetic chemistry and develop experience in drug formulation and manufacture within the regulatory context of the pharmaceutical industry. This will involve the substantial practical experience of advanced laboratory techniques.
In this programme, students have the opportunity to develop a comprehensive knowledge of chemistry alongside subject-specific and generic skills to develop a strong understanding of how chemistry is applied to problems with a direct impact on society. Our programmes are designed to produce highly employable graduates with a broad background in academic chemistry and significant experience in the application of chemistry in contexts relevant to society and industry.
How You Study
The programme takes an integrated approach to organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, exploring how they work together.
Students have the opportunity to focus initially on organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry through an integrated approach that emphasises connectivity. Laboratory workshops and extensive use of specialist equipment provide the chance for students to develop hands-on skills.
Later in the course, students can apply their experience to a range of real-world applications, including industry-informed interdisciplinary projects. A significant research project also aims to develop students in a specialism of their choice. Throughout the course, there is an emphasis on developing the professional skills required for a future career in the industry.
The course includes lectures, seminars, laboratory-based practical classes, and lectures from visiting scientists. Extensive small-group teaching and innovative team-based learning aim to create a supportive learning environment to help students train through practice and problem-based approaches.
Contact Hours
Contact hours vary by course and can take many forms, including lectures, seminars, and workshops. A full-time undergraduate student should expect to undertake a minimum of 37 hours of study each week during term-time, supplementing contact hours with independent study. This is an important aspect of university-level education. As a general rule, you will be expected to spend two to three hours working independently for every hour in class.
Methods of Assessment
The way in which you will be assessed will depend on your chosen course. It may include coursework, written and practical exams, portfolio development, group work, or presentations. A full breakdown of current assessment methods can be found on the individual course pages of this website. The University of Lincoln’s policy is to ensure that staff return assessments to students promptly.
Modules
First Year
Core Chemistry 1.1: Introduction to Energy, Change and Electronic Structure (Core)
Core Chemistry 1.2: Molecular Structure, Bonding and Mechanism (Core)
Introduction to Pharmaceutical Science (Core)
Introduction to Professional Practice (Core)
Practical Chemistry 1.1: Fundamental laboratory techniques (Core)
Practical Chemistry 1.2: Introduction to synthetic methodologies and molecular characterisation (Core)
Professional Practice 1: Analytical Sciences (Core)
Second Year
Core Chemistry 2.1: Stability, Structure and Mechanism in Molecular Systems (Core)
Core Chemistry 2.2: Chemistry of Activated Systems and Radicals (Core)
Drug Formulation and Delivery (Core)
Fundamentals of Pharmacology & Toxicology (Core)
Practical Chemistry 2.1: Organic synthesis, purification and advanced characterisation (Core)
Practical Chemistry 2.2: Inorganic synthesis and structural methods (Core)
Professional Practice 2.2: Pharmaceutical Sciences (Core)
Third Year
Biological Chemistry (Core)
Business, Regulation and Ethics for the Pharmaceutical Scientist (Core)
Core Chemistry 3.1: Defining Shape, Symmetry and Stereochemistry (Core)
Core Chemistry 3.2: Heterogeneous Systems, Surfaces and Nanoscience (Core)
Practical Chemistry 3.1: Advanced techniques in IO-chemistry (Core)
Structured project (Core)
How You Are Assessed
The way students are assessed on this course may vary for each module. Examples of assessment methods that are used include coursework, such as written assignments, reports or dissertations; practical exams, such as presentations, performances or observations; and written exams, such as formal examinations or in-class tests. The weighting given to each assessment method may vary across each academic year. The University of Lincoln aims to ensure that staff return in-course assessments to students promptly.
Scholarships
For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships.
Entry Requirements 2021-22
United Kingdom
GCE Advanced Levels: BBC, to include a grade B from A-Level Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall, with Higher Level Grade 5 in Chemistry.
BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science*: Distinction, Merit, Merit. **not all modules are accepted. Please contact our Admissions team for further information.
Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points, including 40 points from 15 credits in Chemistry
Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English, Maths and Science. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.
International
Non-UK Qualifications:
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.
Teaching and Learning During Covid-19
At Lincoln, Covid-19 has encouraged us to review our practices and, as a result, to take the opportunity to find new ways to enhance the student experience. We have made changes to our teaching and learning approach and to our campus, to ensure that students and staff can enjoy a safe and positive learning experience. We will continue to follow Government guidance and work closely with the local Public Health experts as the situation progresses, and adapt our teaching and learning accordingly to keep our campus as safe as possible.
Features
Skills Development and Professional Practice
Our Chemistry courses have an embedded explicit skills development programme through the professional practice modules. The programme delivers a systematic programme in skills development, which includes CV writing and interview skills. The modules exemplify the application of chemistry into key employment sectors and present chemistry through an integrated approach.
Industry Challenges
A series of themed industry challenges are co-delivered during the professional practice modules through industry partnerships with multi-national and SME organisations representing the analytical, formulation, pharmaceutical, and energy, and environmental sectors.
After systematic project planning and management training, students can devise and present technical proposals in response to the challenge. After consultation and feedback from a joint academic and industry panel, students can execute project plans and report within industry-standard methods. The professional practice modules aim to prepare students for placements and future employment.
Placements
Students may have the opportunity to undertake placements. When students are on an optional placement in the UK or overseas or studying abroad, they will be required to cover their own transport and accommodation and meal costs.
Placements can range from a few weeks to a full year if students choose to undertake an optional sandwich year in industry (where available). Students are encouraged to obtain placements in the industry independently. Tutors may provide support and advice to students who require it during this process.
Career Opportunities
Chemistry graduates may pursue a wide range of science-related careers in sectors including energy, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and consumer and personal care products.
As well as the opportunities available to Chemistry graduates, those with specialisms in drug discovery and development can also aim for careers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. This can involve positions in molecular diagnostics, bioanalysis, and immunology. Some graduates may choose to continue their studies at the postgraduate level.
