Chemistry
Learn about the structure, properties and reactivity of molecules. This fundamental knowledge plays an integral role in our understanding of the world. Chemistry is a broad subject that includes organic , inorganic and physical chemistry, as well as analytical, biological and environmental chemistry.
| Award Name | Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 6 years
Full time – 3 years
Time limit – 16 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
*You can complete your studies in six years part-time and three years full-time. However, your last module (SXC390) ends in September, so you’ll receive your final results in late October rather than June/July. You should consider this if you’re planning further study and wish to use your BSc (Honours) Chemistry as an entry qualification.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you’ll need to succeed. If you’re not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
Stage 1 includes a compulsory module, Questions in science (S111) – check you’re ready to study this module.
https://www.open.edu/openlearncreate/course/view.php?id=2197
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
Chemistry graduates are well placed to enter both scientific and non-scientific jobs. The logical, reasoned approach needed for science study is relevant to a wide range of financial, business and public sector employment, so graduates – particularly those who have good communication and interpersonal skills – are in demand.
Growth areas are predicted to be: environment, energy and sustainability; biotechnology and biomedical engineering; healthcare; telecommunications; pharmaceuticals; bioinformatics; and technology transfer (transfer of scientific expertise to commercial products).
Employers include central and local government, the NHS, the water industry, food and drink companies, media and communications, the horticultural industry, multinational oil companies, the pharmaceutical industry, conservation bodies and universities – in roles such as:
• research and investigation
• product design and development
• analysis and diagnostics
• science information management
• science communication
• scientific sales
• exploration and extraction of natural resources
• health and healthcare related professions
• waste management, recycling and sustainability
• environmental management, protection and conservation
• teaching (science is a shortage subject at secondary school level, so there may be incentives to train as a chemistry teacher).
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025: Registration closes 09/01/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
BSc (Honours) Chemistry
Learn about the structure, properties and reactivity of molecules. This fundamental knowledge plays an integral role in our understanding of the world. Chemistry is a broad subject that includes organic , inorganic and physical chemistry, as well as analytical, biological and environmental chemistry. You’ll gain a thorough understanding of the subject while developing your analytical and scientific literacy skills. Online and remote experiments and two compulsory 2.5-day laboratory-based schools will build your investigative and practical skills.
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
• In Stage 1, you’ll study two 60-credit modules.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study one 60-credit and two 30-credit modules and attend a compulsory 2.5-day laboratory school.
• In Stage 3, you’ll study one 60-credit and one 30-credit module, attend a compulsory 2.5-day laboratory school and complete a 30-credit project module.
Key features of the course
• Study the classical chemistry disciplines, plus analytical, biological and environmental chemistry
• Develop investigative and laboratory skills using our state-of-the-art multi-award-winning OpenSTEM Labs
• Practice hands on skills at laboratory schools, and meet other OU chemistry students
• Apply your knowledge in an in-depth project, exploring your choice of chemistry topic
Stages 1 and 2 of this degree are the same as our Diploma of Higher Education in Chemistry (W90).
Stage 1 (120 credits)
You’ll study two 60-credit modules.
You'll study both of the following:
• Questions in science (S111) 60 credits
• Science: concepts and practice (S112) 60 credits
Stage 2 (120 credits)
You’ll study one 60-credit and two 30-credit modules and attend a laboratory school.
You'll study all three of the following:
• Chemistry in life: food, water and medicines (S248) 30 credits
• Concepts in chemistry (S218) 60 credits
Investigative approaches in biology and chemistry (S285) 30 credits
Stage 3 (120 credits)
You’ll study one 60-credit and one 30-credit module, attend a laboratory school and complete a 30-credit project module.
You'll study all three of the following:
• Chemistry: further concepts and applications (S315) 60 credits
• Evaluating contemporary science (S350) 30 credits
• Science project module: chemistry (SXC390) 30 credits
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.