Content

Year 1: foundation classes in Chemistry and Mathematics, and Physics or Biology; choice of elective classes including Forensic Science, Drug Discovery and Chemical Engineering; you spend one afternoon a week in the laboratory and the rest of your time in lectures and tutorials.

Years 2 and 3: specialist classes in Inorganic, Organic, Biological, Physical and Analytical Chemistry and Forensic Trace Analysis; laboratory work increases to four afternoons per week.

Year 4: 12-month paid industrial placement, specialising in either forensic or analytical chemistry; academic research and knowledge exchange placements are also available.

Year 5: specialist topics including DNA Analysis, Toxicology, Process Analytical Chemistry and Atomic/Nuclear Spectroscopy; research project and dissertation in a specialist topic of your choice.

Entry Requirements

2025 entry requirements

Standard entry:
4 Highers at AABB or AAAC including Chemistry and Maths at B plus English at National 5 (if not held at Higher). Higher English preferred. Advanced Higher Maths and Chemistry recommended for sixth year entrants.

Widening access entry:
4 Highers at ABBB or AABC including Maths and Chemistry at B plus English at National 5 (if not held at Higher). Higher English preferred. Advanced Higher Maths and Chemistry recommended for sixth year entrants.

Entry to year 2 may be possible with 3 Advanced Highers at ABB including Maths, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

A Foundation Apprenticeship is accepted in place of a non-essential Higher.