BSc Chemistry at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

Chemistry is a core science that underpins drug and medical device development, materials and sensors. Students build a grounding in chemical principles from molecular structure and reaction mechanisms to analytical and practical laboratory skills, and gain problem-solving, quantitative and research skills. The programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry and partially fulfils the academic requirements for Chartered Chemist (CChem); it is also accredited by the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland. BSc students with excellent performance may transfer to the MChem up to the end of Stage 3.

Department: School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering | Duration: 3 years full-time | Intake: 2027/28 academic year | Study mode: full-time | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Study covers chemical principles, molecular structure and reaction mechanisms, with analytical and practical laboratory training in both theoretical and experimental chemistry.

Career pathways

Chemistry degrees provide skills for the chemical industries, education and research, and are valued by employers for problem solving, data analysis, communication and creativity. The School has links with employers including Almac and Seagate and with spin-out companies such as Nuada, Ionic Technologies, Catagen and Green Lizard Technologies. Graduates may progress to PhD study or taught Masters such as the MSc in Pharmaceutical Engineering.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Typical offer BBB at A-level including Chemistry and a second Science subject, plus GCSE Mathematics grade C/4. Acceptable second Sciences: Biology, Computer Science, ICT (not Applied), Environmental Science, Environmental Technology, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Nutrition and Food Science, Physics, Technology and Design. A maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award or AQA Extended Certificate counts, with a Distinction equated to a B. Irish Leaving Certificate: H3H3H3H3H4H4 or H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level H3 in Chemistry and a second Science (Ordinary Level O4 in Mathematics if not at Higher Level). International Baccalaureate: 32 points including 6,5,5 at Higher Level including Chemistry and a second Science, plus GCSE Mathematics C/4 (Standard Level 4 accepted in lieu). Access Course: average 80% with no module below 70%, including relevant Chemistry modules. Graduates: minimum 2:2 Honours degree with subject requirements met. GCSE English Language C/4 required. Last year's GCSE profile was five passes at C/4 or better including English Language and Mathematics. Offers are normally based on three A-levels; repeat candidates may be asked for one grade higher; relevant HNC/HND applicants considered; interviews are not normally held. International applicants: IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component, or an equivalent acceptable qualification. Applications are made through UCAS; the University does not normally interview candidates.

Domestic applicants: GBP 4,985 a year (2026/27). NI/ROI residency, full-time undergraduate tuition; 2026/27 rate Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time

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