MChem Medicinal Chemistry: The University of Manchester

Course description

Medicinal Chemistry is for you if you have a strong interest in the biological aspects of chemistry. In addition to the core courses, you take top-rated courses such as: foundation biology, medicinal and pharmaceutical biochemistry, rational drug design and chemotherapy.

In the third year of the MChem programme you study advanced courses in Organic, Natural Product and Medicinal Chemistry as well as Chemotherapy and Rational Drug design. Practical work in the third year takes the form of a group research project.

In the fourth and final year, you carry out an extended project in Organic Chemistry or Pharmacy (in association with one of the Schools' research groups). You study specialist courses in chemistry and medicinal chemistry, including commercially important drugs and advanced chemotherapy and attend specialist lectures chosen in consultation with your project supervisor.

Career opportunities

MChem Medicinal Chemistry graduates go into a wide range of careers. You will be numerate, literate, versatile, creative and skilled in problem solving. You will, of course, be particularly well suited to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry. In general around 50% of our Chemistry graduates have a first job directly using their chemical knowledge, 25% go on to a further degree and the remaining 25% opt for diverse careers in areas such as finance, management, computing and IT.

Entry requirements

• Academic entry qualification overview: A Level: Grades ABB-ABC (to include Chemistry plus one other science or maths subject).
• English language: Minimum grade C in GCSE English Language.  IELTS - minimum 6.5. TOEFL - minimum 233 (computer-based) or 577 (paper-based) or 90 (internet-based).
• A level: Grades ABC including Chemistry and one other science or maths subject.
• AS level: Two AS Levels may be accepted in place of one A Level.
• Unit grade information: The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit grade information which, like all other available information, will inform the consideration of applications.
• GCSE: A good range of subjects including English, Maths and Sciences with minimum grades of A-C.
• Key Skills qualification: The University warmly welcomes applications from students studying the Key Skills qualification.
• International Baccalaureate: 32 points overall with at least 16 at Higher Level including Chemistry plus at least one other science subject from Maths, Physics or Biology at Higher Level. English must be offered at standard level.