If you’re thinking of studying Chemistry, it is vital that you have a passion as well as a natural aptitude for your chosen subject. If you are inquisitive by nature and you have always interested in basic scientific principles, then it is very likely that you will enjoy the course.

Of course, it is also important that you have the adequate experience required to study a degree in Chemistry, or a related subject. If eventually you do decide to take a degree in chemistry, you will be building on top of the knowledge you acquired while studying for your previous exams. In this sense, it is important that you have a thorough understanding of this complex subject matter before deciding to study it at University.

While studying for your final exams at school, you will cover a wide range of subject matters and modules, some of which will be of more interest to you than others. It is important to consider whether there is any one particular field of chemistry you are interested in as there are many diverse Chemistry –based degrees such as Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry and biomedical Chemistry.

Given the diversity of the subject matter, there is a lot of opportunity for those who graduate with a degree in Chemistry, particularly if they have done well. Although the average graduate starting salary for those who study Chemistry in the UK is £18,917 per year many graduates decide to partake in some further post-graduate study. However this can differ from country to country.

Many graduates who decide not pursue further study often find themselves using their skills assisting with research in their chosen field implementing the skills that they learnt during their time at University.

Some Chemistry graduates also pursue careers in other industries where their knowledge and expertise can be put to good use such as journalism, business and law, while many opt to use their skills to travel the world working on conservation projects.

There is tough competition for places on Chemistry Degree Programmes as the course lends itself to such a diverse range of opportunities in the jobs market.

A basic Bsc in Chemistry will most likely take 3 years to complete, but most reputable University’s allow students the opportunity to gain work experience for a year between the second and final year of their degree programme.  If this option is available, then it is well worth considering as not only does it help students gain a firm grasp on the subject matter, but it will also increase your levels of employability.

Different academic institutions will require you to have achieved different grades, but in general most degree programmes will expect you to have at least studied Maths and Chemistry at A-level and have a firm grasp of English. If you are a foreign student and English is not your first language then you will be required to sit an IETLS test for any course and score a minimum of 6.0-6.5.

With so many Universities offering so many different courses, deciding where to study can often seem like an overwhelming task, so it’s important to narrow your options down by deciding just exactly what it is that you want to study and examine the modules and degree programmes offered by different academic institutions.

You also need to be realistic about your academic capabilities when making your application as different universities request different entry requirements. Prestigious universities such as St Andrews and Cambridge expect their students to have achieved either 3 A*s – A grades at A-level or equivalent, whereas other Universities will have lower entry requirements for undergraduate courses. Most post-graduate courses will require students to have a minimum of a 2.1.

Similarly, it is also important to look at the University alumni and the connections your university has within the Chemistry business industry. Often large companies forge relationships with selected universities and will prioritise their students for work placements, networking opportunities and graduate schemes.

When selecting a University, consider your own personality, and whether you feel you would enjoy living in the local area. If you enjoy socialising and thrive in the hustle and bustle of a busy environment then applying to a large University in the heart of a big city may be your best option. If not, then apply to a smaller University with more of a close-knit community.

It is also important to consider the price of tuition fees alongside the cost of living. If you’re struggling financially, you may want to consider applying for a scholarship or bursary.