MSci Chemistry with Computing (F131)

2024 entry | view 2025 entry

Course summary

Do you love both chemistry and computing? Why choose between them? Modern chemistry relies on the latest computer technologies 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 MSci 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, as well as fundamental concepts in inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, and applications in analytical, environmental, materials and theoretical chemistry. In this degree programme, state-of-the-art computational methods are taught through examples drawn from the physical sciences; we call this 'scientific computing'.

Our MSci course is suited to you if you want to gain a solid foundation for a career in coding, scientific computing, data analysis, the chemical industry or research. You will learn to design experiments, interpret results and apply computing skills to problems in chemistry. You will also take units in mathematics, develop your communication and presentation skills, and work on group projects, researching and addressing problems faced in different sectors.

The course builds toward an independent research project. You will collaborate with our leading academics and their research teams who are experts in computing and in chemistry to address a current problem in chemistry. For example, you may consider global warming, antibiotic resistance or improve the fundamental understanding of chemical reactions.

We have one of the biggest groups of computational chemists in the country. Units will be taught by experts in fundamental chemistry, computational chemistry, scientific computing and research software engineering; the application of computing skills in chemistry will be emphasised throughout the chemistry units.

Course structure

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

Go to programme catalogue

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.

A*AA including AA in Chemistry and Mathematics
AAB including AA in Chemistry and Mathematics

Find out if you are eligible for a contextual offer
D*DD in Applied Science BTEC National Level 3 Extended Diploma with Distinctions in five required Chemistry units, plus A in A-level Mathematics (or equivalent)

Find out more about BTEC entry requirements
38 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in Chemistry and either 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) or 7 at Standard Level in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches)
34 points overall with 17 at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in Chemistry and either 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) or 7 at Standard Level in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches)

Find out if you are eligible for a contextual offer
88% 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 AA at A-Level or equivalent in Chemistry and Mathematics).

More about Access to HE entry requirements
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.

Search international qualifications
More about UK qualifications.