MChem Forensic & Analytical Chemistry at University of Strathclyde

The MChem Forensic & Analytical Chemistry is an integrated master's degree delivered by the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry in partnership with the Strathclyde Centre for Forensic Science. It is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences, the only UK course with this dual accreditation. Students can take a paid 12-month industrial placement and complete a final-year research project.

Faculty: Faculty of Science  |  Department: Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry  |  Duration: 5 years (MChem)  |  Intake: September 2027  |  Study mode: full-time (integrated masters)  |  Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 covers foundation chemistry and mathematics plus physics or biology, with electives such as forensic science and drug discovery. Years 2 and 3 cover inorganic, organic, biological and physical chemistry, forensic trace analysis and analytical chemistry with laboratory work increasing to four afternoons a week. Year 4 is an optional paid 12-month placement or research placement, and Year 5 includes a research project and specialisms such as DNA analysis, toxicology, process analytical chemistry and atomic/nuclear spectroscopy.

Career pathways

Graduates work in the chemical industry, forensic science, food and water quality testing, environmental protection, industrial materials monitoring and the restoration of artworks and historical artefacts, in roles such as analytical chemist, biotechnologist and clinical scientist (biochemistry). The accredited degree leads towards Chartered Chemist status.

Official programme page