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Edinburgh Campus

Content

This career-focused MChem Medicinal Chemistry with Placement degree has been developed to equip students with the necessary expertise to excel in pharmaceutical and drug development settings while gaining invaluable real-world experience. The programme at Heriot-Watt University offers a rigorous and modern education combined with a structured placement year in industry, giving you a competitive edge in the job market and preparing you for a successful career in pharmaceutical and chemical sciences.

Over five years, you will build a strong foundation in core chemistry disciplines — including chemical reactivity, molecular structure and bonding, spectroscopy, and organic synthesis. As you progress, your studies will increasingly focus on medicinal chemistry topics such as pharmacology, enzyme kinetics, drug design, molecular modelling, and pharmaceutical analysis, as well as the use of AI and machine learning in drug development.

As part of MChem Medicinal Chemistry with Industrial Placement, you can choose an industrial placement in the pharmaceutical, chemical, or biotechnology sector. You will gain first-hand experience as an industrial scientist, develop your technical and professional skills, and enhance your career prospects in the medicinal chemistry field.

Hands-on laboratory work is embedded throughout the course, developing your technical skills and reinforcing theoretical knowledge. The placement year provides an exceptional opportunity to apply these skills in a professional environment, gaining first-hand experience of industrial research, laboratory practices, and project management — and building the confidence, adaptability, and industry connections that employers value.

Entry Requirements

2027 entry requirements:
4 Highers at AAAB (Standard entry) or BBBC (Widening access entry) including Chemistry and one from Maths, Engineering Science or Physics plus English and Maths or Applications of Maths at National 5.

For entry to year 2 you would require Advanced Higher Maths and Chemistry at AB or BA plus above.