Analytical chemistry is important to many different fields, and a master’s degree in this area is one of the most sought after by employers.

Being able to isolate and analyse the chemicals in a sample - and to interpret the findings – is crucial for determining the health of an environmental system, developing sustainable manufacturing techniques that pollute less, or even which athletes deserve a medal.

The master’s in analytical chemistry uses problem-based teaching methods, presenting a problem that an analytical chemist might face and then letting you plot your own course to the solution. The class sizes are very small and many students develop a strong sense of community because of the extensive lab work. They also appreciate that the laboratories are very well equipped with instrumentation that only professional researchers would expect.

The project-based structure means that students see a problem through from beginning to end, from setting up their own labs to writing and presenting the results. You will work closely with leading researchers with low teacher-student ratios.

You will be surrounded by the world’s top chemists, not only some of the people who chose the Nobel winners but even attending the Nobel lectures of the prize winners themselves.

Career opportunities

The career prospects for someone with master’s in analytical chemistry are extremely good. The degree is very flexible and can be used in many fields including healthcare, the environment, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and more. For the last ten years graduates of this programme have found full employment upon graduation.