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Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry MChem (Hons)
Why choose this course?
Chemistry is a fundamental science that has a huge impact on our day-to-day lives.
The crucial roles that the pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry industries have played in the fight against Covid-19, have also increased public awareness and perception of the challenges being faced, and thus the national strategic importance of these industries.
This integrated masters course places emphasis on research alongside developing your laboratory, practical and professional skills, and a specialism in medicinal chemistry in the final year of the degree.
To provide a base for this advanced learning, the course shares Years 1, 2 and 3 with the Chemistry BSc (Hons) course.
| Attendance | UCAS code/apply | Year of entry |
|---|---|---|
| 4 years full time | F123 | 2023 (Clearing) 2024 |
| 5 years full time including professional placement | F122 | 2023 (Clearing) 2024 |
| 8 years part time | Apply direct to the University | 2023 (Clearing) 2024 |
| Location | Penrhyn Road |
Reasons to choose Kingston University
- Kingston's state-of-the-art laboratories include networked computers for each workspace, which are newly refurbished through a £6 million investment.
- 95.7% of students were satisfied with the IT resources and facilities on this course (NSS 2023).
- This MChem degree is ideal if you are considering a career as an industrial or medicinal chemist.
- Two independent research projects, at least one of which will in medicinal chemistry, enable you to develop advanced research skills.
What you will study
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 1 introduces the fundamental aspects of the subject. Three foundation modules consolidate your existing knowledge and provide a base on which you can develop advanced concepts. You will learn and develop the laboratory and practical techniques needed for the later years of the course. You will also broaden your knowledge through a module that discusses environmental chemistry. A further module of academic and professional skills enables you to enhance transferable skills valued by employers.
Core modules
Foundation Organic and Physical Chemistry
30 credits
This is a core module for Chemistry degree courses. It introduces the structure and isomerism observed in organic molecules, then describes the preparation and chemical reactions (including the mechanisms involved) of the hydrocarbons and monofunctional organic molecules. The main principles of molecular systems, chemical reactivity and kinetics, including those of gas-phase reactions, are described before presenting the essential principles of chemical thermodynamics and molecular quantum mechanics.
Foundation Inorganic and Environmental Chemistry
30 credits
This is a core module for chemistry degree courses. The module introduces various bonding models including the structure and bonding of inorganic solids. Trends in the periodic table are illustrated by coverage of the chemistry of Group 1, 13 and 17 elements. The module introduces you to atmospheric and aquatic pollution and goes on to cover the impact of pollutants on the environment.
Introduction to Spectroscopy and Experimental Techniques
30 credits
This module provides an introduction to basic laboratory techniques and procedures such as weighing and volumetry, proceeding to descriptions of laboratory manipulations, elemental analysis and general practical knowledge. There is included an introduction to spectroscopic techniques in terms of simple theory, as well as a practical introduction to the identification of simple organic compounds. These compounds will sometimes be synthesised in the course of the practical element of the module, which will also serve to demonstrate laboratory techniques of preparation and purification of these organic materials.
Academic Skills for Molecular Sciences
30 credits
This is a core module for all chemistry and pharmaceutical science programmes. The module aims to give you a thorough grounding in mathematics, statistics, key and transferable skills (e.g. exam strategy, effective use of calculators, library and referencing, avoiding plagiarism, problem-solving and personal development planning etc.) and IT skills.
Year 2 takes a more in-depth look at organic and medicinal chemistry, inorganic and physical chemistry. You will continue to carry out experimental work, developing the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to become a competent professional. Additional modules, covering experimental and analytical chemistry, will expand your skills for interpreting the results of modern spectroscopic investigations. An optional sandwich year provides an opportunity to gain first-hand experience of how chemistry is applied in an industrial situation.
Core modules
Inorganic Chemistry
30 credits
This module is a core module for the Chemistry fields. The module builds upon the theory and principles developed in Foundation Inorganic Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry and applies them second and third row transition metal, the lanthanides and Group 14. It introduces solid state chemistry with a consideration of defects and conductivity. The module also introduces bonding and reactivity of inorganic complexes and organometallics. Nearly 25% of the teaching time is spent in the laboratory carrying out synthetic work and quantitative analysis.
Organic and Medicinal Chemistry
30 credits
This is a core module Level 5 module for the Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Science fields.
The module seeks to develop and expand your knowledge of both Organic Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry subject areas and introduces important principles, reactions and mechanisms in organic chemical reactivity as well as basic mechanisms of drug action. It develops your understanding of the methodology of organic synthesis following concepts introduced at level 4 and includes important organic chemistry topics such as carbanion reactivity of carbonyl compounds, the reactions of aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds, stereochemistry, asymmetric synthesis and retrosynthesis
It also introduces the specific reasons why a small amount of a drug molecule can exert a complex biological response. It uses examples from a range of medicinal areas in order to illustrate these key processes as well as giving an introduction on the ideas of drug design and the role this plays in the modern pharmaceutical industry.
This module also gives you experience of using spectroscopic techniques for chemical structure elucidation. Lectures and workshops are designed to develop your problem-solving and team-working skills. Practical skills will also be developed during two 3-hour laboratory experiments from weeks 9 to 12 of teaching block 1. These experiments will reinforce the concepts of enolate and aromatic chemistry taught during teaching block 1. In teaching block 2, you will present a poster concerning a medicinal natural product, to integrate organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry in a real-world context. This module is essential for those wishing to take the more advanced Level 6 Organic Chemistry modules.
Physical Chemistry
30 credits
This is a core module for Chemistry degree courses. The module discusses the electrochemistry of ionic solutions including both strong and weak electrolytes; cell electrochemistry and the associated applications to chemical thermodynamics; phase equilibria and colligative properties; transition state theory of chemical reactions; complex reaction mechanisms and their kinetic analysis; an introduction to statistical thermodynamics and partition function; and the quantum mechanics and theory underlying both rotational (microwave) and vibrational (Infra-red and Raman) spectroscopies, including rigid rotor and centrifugal distortion models and both simple harmonic and anharmonic vibration models and their interactions.
Analytical and Experimental Chemistry
30 credits
This is a core module for BSc Chemistry and MChem students. It takes forward the themes of analysis and practical procedures (with an emphasis on analytical and organic chemistry) that were introduced in previous modules. It incorporates both a more rigorous approach to laboratory work, coupled with developing the research skills required to devise experiments and then objectively assess results, followed by preparing high-quality reports and presentations.
The analytical methodologies and experimental techniques are those used routinely in academia, industry, and other laboratory research - spectroscopy; organic syntheses; molecular modelling; inorganic and physical chemistries; and the uses of applied separation technologies in common use.
The modes of obtaining and evaluating findings, by use of electronic databases (eg. Reaxys®) in addition to conventional printed literature sources. The ability to write coherent, evidence-based, yet succinct reports is a component.
Students will also gain opportunities to develop other important skills, from utilising statistics to planning and presentation techniques, all of which improve employability.
Over 50% of the formal contact teaching time is spent on practical work. Core teaching material is uploaded onto Canvas with lectures explaining key concepts.
In Year 3, you will undertake more specialised study of the inorganic, physical and organic chemistry taught in Years 1 and 2, with the chance to choose optional modules in areas of drug development, analytical or advanced materials and industrial chemistry. There is also a project module, which forms an important part of this year's work and allows you to investigate a research topic in a chosen area of interest.
Core modules
Organic and Natural Product Chemistry
30 credits
This is a core module for Chemistry and M. Pharm. Sci degree courses, and is optional for the BSc. Pharm. Sci. Degree course. The module builds upon and develops further, topics introduced in the earlier level 5 module CH5002, for example, stereoselective synthesis and retrosynthetic analysis. In addition, new topics are introduced such as pharmacognosy, combinatorial chemistry, photochemistry, free radical chemistry and pericyclic reactions. The lectures and associated workshops will encourage the development of problem solving and team working skills, in order to prepare you for your future careers. These skills will be practised during laboratory-based exercises, where you will participate in group "mini-projects" which will be assessed using a range of methodologies that include oral presentations, report writing and poster presentations.
Inorganic Chemistry 2
15 credits
This is a core module for both the MChem Chemistry, MChem Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry and BSc Chemistry courses. It introduces bio-inorganic chemistry and supramolecular chemistry, as well as further developing your understanding of organometallic and main group chemistry, including spectroscopic characterisation.
You will be introduced to modern aspects of organometallic and supramolecular chemistry and explore the importance of inorganic compounds in living systems. You will also develop key skills in practical air-sensitive chemistry.
Physical Chemistry 2
15 credits
This is a core module for both the MChem Chemistry, MChem Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry and BSc Chemistry courses. It takes forward the themes of atomic and molecular electronic structure, photochemistry and spectroscopy that were introduced in the previous modules and develops a more rigorous theoretical footing.
You will explore important concepts of surface chemistry through the study of various surface phenomena such as adsorption and micellization.
The module also has a focus on scientific communication, you will learn how to explain complex scientific information to a non-expert audience.
Project
30 credits
This module is a core module for Level 6 Pharmaceutical Science, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical and Chemical Sciences top up and Pharmaceutical Studies students and an option module for Forensic Science students. The module provides you with an opportunity to undertake a scientific project and develop skills required to plan a project, develop a methodology, analyse the data and disseminate the results. Two types of projects are offered to you: an experimental or a non-experimental project. The end point is the same in both cases: review and critical evaluation of data generated from laboratory experiments or collected from published works.
Optional modules
Advanced Materials and Industrial Chemistry
30 credits
This module addresses some of the most current and industrially relevant areas of applied chemistry. Key topics include polymer chemistry, Nano materials synthesis and applications, heterogeneous catalysis, green chemistry, sustainable practices in chemistry, intellectual property and health and safety. Materials conveyed in lectures will be further reinforced via workshops and laboratory practical classes. Areas covered in the module will be evaluated via summative assessments and final exam, and group presentations, that will test critical thinking, communication skills, team work and handling Q&A. Overall, this module will provide a grounding in commercially and industrially relevant topics in chemistry as well as providing key employability skills.
Advanced Analytical Science
30 credits
This is a core module of MPharmSci (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science and MChem(Hons) Chemistry and an option for BSc (Hons) Chemistry and BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science students. It takes forward the themes of spectroscopy that were introduced in the previous modules and develops a more rigorous theoretical footing and advanced applications. In parallel to this, analytical themes are introduced, covering radiochemical analysis, electroanalysis and thermal analysis.
Drug Development
30 credits
This module deals with the pharmacology involved in the treatment of various disease types and details the synthetic chemistry behind the development of drug molecules and evaluates the structure activity effects from pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic perspectives. The module also outlines the process for intellectual property protection and exploitation, toxicological events that might affect the body and the body's immunological response to toxic insult or disease.
On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound knowledge of the mode of action of a range of modern drugs against a number of disease states.
- Demonstrate practical skills in drug synthesis and spectroscopic characterisation.
- Critically evaluate the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic effects of changes to the structure of certain drugs and suggest appropriate synthetic methodology to accomplish this.
- Describe a range of toxins and their effects on the body and how the body may respond.
- Explain the process for patent protection and the steps involved in bringing a drug from bench to market.
In Year 4, you will specialise in medicinal chemistry by studying the discovery, design and development of pharmaceuticals, including the application of tools such as computational chemistry and assay screening techniques. A research project in medicinal chemistry will enable you to develop these skills further. Progression to Year 4 requires the completion of the compulsory modules and one option module.
Core modules
Research Project
60 credits
The project module is core for MChem and MPharmSci courses and is designed to foment the necessary conceptual and practical skills in research, which are immediately applicable across disciplines and to enable the development of communications skills for the dissemination of the outcomes of research. Where possible, research should be communicated via publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Topics in Drug Design, Discovery and Development
30 credits
This is a core module for the MChem Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry Course.
You will explore the synthetic chemistry behind the development of drug molecules and evaluates quantitatively the structure activity effects from pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic perspectives.
You will learn about advanced experimental techniques in spectroscopy and compound separation will be discussed in the context of drug discovery and development. You will also cover intellectual property protection and risks of exploitation.
Medicinal Chemistry in the Pharmaceutical Industry
30 credits
The module is intended to allow students to gain knowledge and understanding of how medicinal chemistry is used to discover small molecule therapeutics or biologics. Topics such as computational chemistry, biomarkers and medical imaging also feature in the module. In addition, other study units relevant to the pharmaceutical industry are introduced; for example pharmacodynamics and assay screening techniques.
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
- Analyse key aspects of the development of medicines by studying cutting edge developments in medicinal chemistry.
- Apply the tools studied in this module to solve drug discovery problems.
Please note
Optional modules only run if there is enough demand. If we have an insufficient number of students interested in an optional module, that module will not be offered for this course.
Foundation Year
If you would like to study one of our science degrees at Kingston University but are not yet ready, you can include an extra foundation year within your chosen degree. Please see the science foundation year course page for details of modules.
Future Skills
Knowledge to give you the edge
Embedded within every course curriculum and throughout the whole Kingston experience, Future Skills will play a role in shaping you to become a future-proof graduate, providing you with the skills most valued by employers such as problem-solving, digital competency, and adaptability.
As you progress through your degree, you'll learn to navigate, explore and apply these graduate skills, learning to demonstrate and articulate to employers how future skills give you the edge.
At Kingston University, we're not just keeping up with change, we're creating it.
What our students say
Entry requirements
If you would like to join us through Clearing 2023, please call our Clearing hotline on 0800 0483 334 (or +44 020 8328 1149 if you are calling from outside the UK) and speak to our friendly and knowledgeable hotliners who will be able to provide information on available courses and will guide you through your options.
Please note the entry requirements listed below are for 2024 entry only.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching methods include lectures, workshops and practical classes. Theory work is backed up by independent or group-based practical study.
Assessment typically comprises 60% exam and 40% coursework, including practical exercises and in-course tests. Projects are assessed by practical work, presentation of results and a written report.
Who teaches this course?
This course is delivered by the School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry.
The School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry offers an outstanding and diverse portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in biological and biomedical sciences, chemistry, forensic science, pharmacy, pharmacological and pharmaceutical sciences, and sport science and nutrition.
We've invested heavily in the development of new facilities including laboratories for teaching and research to provide students with access to ultra-modern equipment in a wide range of teaching facilities.
Postgraduate students may run or assist in lab sessions and may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.
Facilities
There is a wide range of facilities for practical work at our Penrhyn Road campus, where this course is based. You will have access to a modern environment with the latest equipment, including:
- the £9.8 million Eadweard Muybridge building with state-of the art laboratories, including labs dedicated to chemistry;
- specialist equipment, such as:
- gas and liquid chromatography;
- electron and confocal microscopy;
- a range of spectrometers, including mass spectrometers, infrared spectrometers and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers;
- nuclear science equipment;
- thermal analysis;
- x-ray diffractometers; and
- electrochemical analysis;
- computing laboratories and a team of IT technicians to offer assistance.
The libraries offer:
- subject libraries, plus a free inter-library loan scheme to other libraries in the Greater London area;
- online database subscriptions; and
- a growing selection of resource material
Course fees and funding
Additional costs
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.
Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.
After you graduate
Graduates work in areas such as research, chemistry, product development and engineering, and teaching.
What our students say
Work placement year
How you can work in industry during your course
Placements:
- provide work experience that is relevant to your course and future career
- improve your chances of graduating with a higher-grade degree
- enhance your CV
- lead to a graduate job
- enable you to earn a year's salary whilst studying (the vast majority of placements are paid)
- help you to select your final-year project.
"To be successful, tomorrow's leaders will need to be far more rounded individuals than ever before. They will collaborate in pursuit of shared goals. They will guide, challenge and support...They will have an appetite for change and a hunger for continuous improvement, and they will have an ethos of learning and development..." Jeremy Darroch, Former Chief Executive, Sky.
"Doing a placement year effectively gives you one foot in the door of a future job and to stand out from the crowd... as well as enhancing my CV... and future interviews. It's a great motivator to be successful in my studies as it only serves to open even more doors and gain more skills." Placement student at Jagex Games Studios Ltd.
There is a lot of support available for students looking to secure a placement (e.g. a jobs board with placement vacancies, help with writing CVs and mock interviews). Getting a placement and passing the placement year are ultimately the student's responsibility.
Examples of placements
Placements can be with large multinational companies, international companies, local companies and small start-ups; offering a diverse range of posts. Here are some examples of employers and roles:
| Construction-based placement employers | Construction-based placement roles |
|---|---|
| RG Group Multiplex Costain Willmott Dixon Fluor |
Assistant site manager Assistant trades package manager Assistant logistics manager Health and safety officer Construction engineer |
| Science-based placement employers | Science-based placement roles |
| Reckitt and Benckiser GSK Drug Control Centre Minton Treharne and Davies Ltd Various local and international hospitals |
Bioanalytical sciences Lab assistant Pharmacy assistant Sports coach |
| Engineering-based placement employers | Engineering-based placement roles |
| Airbus BAM Nuttall Nissan Bosch Wozair |
Analysis of aircraft structure Construction resources specialist Site engineer assistant |
| Computing and IS-based placement employers | Computing and IS-based placement roles |
| Disney Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe IBM McKinsey Intel |
Database coordinator Software developer Website developer App developer |
| Mathematics-based placement employers | Mathematics-based placement roles |
| Lloyds Banking Group AXA Allianz PAU Education, Spain |
Analyst Investment solutions Research analyst Accounts assistant |
Study or work abroad
Key information set
The scrolling banner(s) below display some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Course changes explained.
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
