Course summary

Do you like both chemistry and computing? Why choose between them? Modern chemistry relies on the latest computer technologies and computing to address global challenges facing the environment and human society. Join a University ranked first in the UK for Chemistry research (THE analysis of REF 2021), with an excellent reputation for teaching and learning (UK top ten for Chemistry, Guardian University Guide 2023). The BSc Chemistry with Computing course combines study of the structure and synthesis of matter with development of computational and data analysis skills. It creates a new kind of scientist, one with a firm foundation in chemistry, a sound appreciation of computing and data analysis, and an understanding of what can be achieved by combining them. The course offers a unique combination of units and projects incorporating coding, machine learning and high-performance computing, with fundamental concepts in inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, and applications in analytical, environmental, materials and theoretical chemistry. In this degree, state-of-the-art computational methods are taught through examples drawn from the physical sciences; we call this 'scientific computing'. You will learn to design experiments, interpret results and apply your computing skills to problems in chemistry. You will take units in mathematics while developing your communication and presentation skills. Options for your final year project include working in a research laboratory or addressing a problem faced by researchers in academia, industry or a local school. You might develop databases and science resources, explore computing applications or carry out chemistry education research. Regardless of the setting, an expert in scientific computing and a specialist in chemistry will both be involved. We have one of the biggest groups of computational chemists in the country. Units are taught by experts in fundamental chemistry, computational chemistry, scientific computing and research software engineering.