BSc (Hons) Medicinal Chemistry and Forensic Science

The goal of medicinal chemistry is to support the search for new drugs to treat conditions such as heart disease and cancer. You’ll work in well-equipped laboratories, and learn to conduct effective independent research. This course prepares you to help solve problems at the intersection of chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, and pharmacology. You’ll develop essential skills for employment, such as problem-solving, presentation, and communication. For the Forensic Science element of the course, you will be taught by academics and forensic professionals, as well as gaining valuable lab and crime scene experience, helping you to stay ahead in this fast-moving science. You will be taught in our modern laboratory facilities and have access to equipment and our dedicated Crime Scene House.

Year 1

• Forensic Chemistry and Analysis
• Forensic Identification and Investigation
• Practical and Professional Chemistry Skills
• Chemical Structure and Reactivity

Year 2

• Forensic Genetics
• Spectroscopy and Advanced Analysis
• Criminalistic Methods
• Drugs of Abuse
• Molecular Chemistry and Reactions
• Principles of Drug Design
• Spectroscopy and Molecular Structure

Year 3

• Evaluation of evidence, explosives, and arson
• Forensic Science Team Research Project – ISP
• Forensic Toxicology
• Mechanisms of Drug Action
• Topics in Medicinal Chemistry

OPTIONAL MODULES

• Advanced Topics in Forensic Analysis
• Forensic Geoscience
• Chemical Kinetics, Photochemistry, and Inorganic Reaction Mechanisms
• Advanced Organic Chemistry
• Chemistry/Medicinal Chemistry Research Project
• Chemistry/Medicinal Chemistry Dissertation

Employability

Our Medicinal Chemistry graduates have excellent employment prospects, whether at the cutting edge of drug discovery or in a wide range of related fields. You might go to work for a pharmaceutical company, either as a research scientist or in a more business-related role. Alternatively, you might work in a different organization as a development chemist, a research assistant, or a site chemist. Our teaching strategy is designed to enable you to become an independent scientist who will have a great deal to offer prospective employers. Some of our graduates also undertake postgraduate qualifications such as an MSc, PGCE, or Ph.D. qualification prior to entering employment.

Previous employers:

• Vision Express
• Pharmaron UK Ltd
• Johnson Matthey
• GSQ
• Endeavour Speciality Chemicals Ltd
• NHS