Chemistry

Course summary

Chemistry occupies a central position in the sciences and its study teaches you to handle a large body of knowledge, to extract salient points and to formulate rules. You will discover how important Chemistry is in modern society, how it impinges on all aspects of our everyday lives, and how it explains the material world. You will develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills. You will also extend your observational, deductive and manipulative skills and gain a deeper appreciation of the scientific method. Chemistry will appeal to you if you are self-motivated and have the determination to succeed, the ability to analyse situations, the intuition to select relevant information and explanations, and a logical mind with the capacity to interpret. A healthy interest in the world around you and the enthusiasm to appreciate that Chemistry is a living, progressing and fascinating subject would, of course, be most welcome. If you are considering Chemistry A level, you should be a reasonable mathematician with a strong pass at GCSE or IGCSE. If you are not studying Mathematics at A level, you are expected to attend a Mathematics for Science course. A good pass in Chemistry at GCSE or IGCSE is expected as many of the topics studied at A level have already been met and this knowledge is then built upon and extended. You are expected to subscribe to Chemistry Review and New Scientist as well as to read the science sections of newspapers/media websites. You are also encouraged to attend Science Activities on a Monday afternoon. Chemistry A level is often studied in conjunction with other sciences and can lead to a wide range of degree options, from pure Chemistry to applied Chemistry courses like Biochemistry, Material Sciences, Pharmacology or Natural Sciences. In addition, it is required for all Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine courses at UK universities.