MChem Medicinal Chemistry at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

This degree gives a strong grounding in chemistry with a specialised focus on designing and making drug-like molecules through organic chemistry, drug design and synthetic chemistry. Students gain a multidisciplinary training at the interface of chemistry and biology, including biochemistry. The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Institute of Chemistry in Ireland, and Almac Discovery contributes to parts of the teaching. The MChem is for high-calibre students aiming to practise medicinal chemistry at the highest levels and fulfils the academic requirements for Chartered Chemist (CChem).

Faculty: Chemistry and Chemical Engineering | Department: School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering | Duration: 4 years full-time | Intake: 2027/28 entry | Study mode: full-time (integrated) | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students cover the core divisions of chemistry together with biochemistry and drug design, building laboratory skills and drug-development insight over four years.

Career pathways

Graduates are prepared for pharmaceutical research and industry, drug discovery, quality control, regulatory affairs, scientific and technical leadership roles, or postgraduate study in chemistry and pharmaceutical science.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA including Chemistry and a second Science subject, plus GCSE Mathematics grade B/6 (second sciences accepted: Biology, Computer Science, ICT (not Applied), Environmental Science, Environmental Technology, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Technology and Design). A maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award or AQA Extended Certificate is accepted, with a Distinction* equated to A. IB Diploma: 36 points including 6,6,6 at Higher Level including Higher Level Chemistry and a second Science, plus GCSE Mathematics B/6 (Standard Level 5 in Mathematics accepted). Irish Leaving Certificate: H2H2H3H3H3H3 including H2 in Chemistry and a second Science. Graduates: minimum 2:2 Honours degree provided subject requirements are met. HNC/HND and Access Course qualifications are not considered for MChem entry (a change-course offer for the BSc may be made). All applicants must have GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Applicants are not normally asked to attend interview. International applicants: IELTS 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification.

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

International applicants: GBP 28,500 a year. International and EU Other rate for 2027/28 entry Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 4 years full-time

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