Chemistry with Foundation Year BSc (Hons)

Sheffield Hallam University

Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information.

Course summary:

• Develop real-world chemistry problem-solving skills in the context of biological, environmental, materials and pharmaceutical science.
• Gain experience of industrially-relevant analytical instrumentation, modern synthetic techniques and application of computing in chemistry.
• Take the opportunity to complete a work placement – either in the UK or abroad.
• Transfer onto an MChem route for a specialist year of research intensive study working alongside our internationally recognised researchers.

Chemistry impacts everything around you. This course will give you the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to be part of exciting scientific developments that affect all areas of life.

If you don't meet the entry requirements for our BSc (Hons) courses, or you’d like extra preparation before starting degree-level study, we recommend you join the foundation year. You will build your confidence in biology, chemistry and maths, and apply your theoretical knowledge in practical laboratory sessions. You will also familiarise yourself with Sheffield Hallam’s staff and facilities — ensuring that you are fully prepared to begin at degree level study.

How you learn:

Throughout the course you will develop practical skills in our state-of-the-art laboratories. You will learn underlying theories that support chemistry – alongside the data analysis, project design and management skills required to be an independent scientist.

In years 1 and 2 you will gain a breadth of knowledge in physical, organic, inorganic and analytical chemistry. In your final year you have a choice of modules which will allow you to specialise in a specific area of chemistry.

The foundation course content is delivered and assessed in a variety of innovative and exciting ways, helping you to gain skills required for success on your chosen degree route. You will study 6 modules designed to prepare you for future success while studying one of our bioscience or chemistry degrees. Attending and participating in the laboratory activities is central to your course, as it is where you develop not only practical skills, but also learn to keep effective records and analyse data, as well as working both independently and with others.

• core lectures and workshops
• practical lab sessions
• small group academic tutorials
• field trips
• project work

Applied learning - Work placements

You have the opportunity to apply for a year-long work placement between your second and third year – either in the UK or abroad. This gives you a real-world experience to prepare you for your future career. In previous years students have obtained placements in pharmaceutical and materials chemical industries, scientific recruitment agencies and in education. By securing a placement with one of our industry partners, you will enter the jobs market with a CV that attracts employer attention.

Completion of a year-long work placement will allow you to achieve an Advanced Professional Diploma alongside your degree.

Research Project

During your final year you will combine the skills and knowledge you have gained to undertake a specialist research project working alongside an expert in your chosen subject area. Opportunities are available for both lab and non lab-based science projects allowing you the flexibility to focus on a specific area of interest.

Field trips

Students have benefited from a European field trip to world renowned chemical research facilities. The trip included tours of the facilities, seminars and discussions with leading chemists, as well as exposure to the culture of the region. The majority of the cost for this trip was covered by the university.