BSc Chemistry with Computing (F130)

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Course summary

Do you like both chemistry and computing? Why choose between them? Modern chemistry relies on the latest computer technologies and computing to address global challenges facing the environment and human society.

Join a University ranked first in the UK for Chemistry research (THE analysis of REF 2021), with an excellent reputation for teaching and learning (UK top ten for Chemistry, Guardian University Guide 2023).

The BSc Chemistry with Computing course combines study of the structure and synthesis of matter with development of computational and data analysis skills. It creates a new kind of scientist, one with a firm foundation in chemistry, a sound appreciation of computing and data analysis, and an understanding of what can be achieved by combining them.

The course offers a unique combination of units and projects incorporating coding, machine learning and high-performance computing, with fundamental concepts in inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, and applications in analytical, environmental, materials and theoretical chemistry. In this degree, state-of-the-art computational methods are taught through examples drawn from the physical sciences; we call this 'scientific computing'.

You will learn to design experiments, interpret results and apply your computing skills to problems in chemistry. You will take units in mathematics while developing your communication and presentation skills.

Options for your final year project include working in a research laboratory or addressing a problem faced by researchers in academia, industry or a local school. You might develop databases and science resources, explore computing applications or carry out chemistry education research. Regardless of the setting, an expert in scientific computing and a specialist in chemistry will both be involved.

We have one of the biggest groups of computational chemists in the country. Units are taught by experts in fundamental chemistry, computational chemistry, scientific computing and research software engineering.

Course structure

Full details about the course structure and units for this course can be viewed in the programme catalogue.

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Entry requirements

We accept a wide variety of qualifications and welcome applications from students of all backgrounds. Below is a guide to the typical offers for this course.

AAA including Chemistry and Mathematics
ABB including A in Chemistry and B in Mathematics

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DDD in Applied Science BTEC National Level 3 Extended Diploma with Distinctions in five specified Chemistry units, plus A in A-level Mathematics (or equivalent)

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36 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in Chemistry, and either 6 at Higher Level (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) or 7 at Standard Level (Analysis and Approaches) in Mathematics
32 points overall with 16 at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in Chemistry and either 5 at Higher Level in Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) or 7 at Standard Level in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches)

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85% overall, with 8.5 in Chemistry and Mathematics
Advanced Higher: AA in Chemistry and Mathematics, and Standard Higher: AAAAA
Access to HE Diploma in Science (or similar titles). The 45 graded Level 3 credits must include: at least 30 credits at Distinction and 15 at Merit or above; and at least 12 credits at Distinction from specified Chemistry units and 12 credits at Distinction in specified Mathematics units (including algebra, calculus and trigonometry), plus successful completion of a University of Bristol test and interview (or A at A-Level or equivalent in Chemistry and B at A-Level or equivalent in Mathematics).

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Requirements are as for A-levels, where you can substitute a non-subject specific grade for the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate at that grade.
Requirements for principal subjects are as for A-level, where D1/D2 is A*, D3 is A, M1/M2 is B, and M3 is C.
The University of Bristol welcomes applications from international students, and we accept a wide range of qualifications for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

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