Sustainable Chemistry MSc
- RankingTop 100QS World University Rankings
- Delivery formatIn person
- Start dateSeptemberDuration1 year full-time
- AwardMaster of Science
- Entry requirements2:1 Honours Degree in Chemistry or a closely related discipline.
- Fees£11,740 (full-time)
Page contents
Course overview
Prepare to tackle the most urgent sustainability challenges we face. Our Sustainable Chemistry Masters course provides the skills and knowledge you need to boost your career prospects in this growing global field.
Chemistry has a key role in helping us find a sustainable future. You’ll learn how to measure the sustainability of products and processes, and develop transferable skills for roles in a sustainability-focused chemical sector.
The MSc is a 1 year full-time advanced course. 120 credits of modules assessed through coursework, short reports and presentations and a 60 credit research project.
This semester focuses on developing a fundamental knowledge of Circular Economy and Life Cycle Assessment. These modules will underpin the material to be taught in term 2 and the research projects. In addition, you'll have a research skills module that will develop your skills in developing literature reviews and critiquing different presentation styles. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in some engaging assessments including Dragon's Den pitches.
Course highlights
You’ll deepen your understanding with options for specialist study and find solutions to global challenges. Explore how chemistry can help develop carbon-free fuels, create materials for energy storage and discover innovative plastic recycling methods. Study with us and learn how to implement greener, energy-efficient production techniques in high demand.
- Engage in specialist modules exploring how sustainable chemistry tackles major challenges, such as developing carbon-free fuels and new recycling methods for plastics
- Conduct independent research with world-leading teams within the School's brand new research-focused Molecular Science Building
- Learn key principles of sustainability, the circular economy, and life-cycle assessment
- Delve into advanced areas of sustainable chemistry, gaining insights into cutting-edge research
Birmingham is ranked 80th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, maintaining our position in the top 100 universities globally and placing us 12th amongst UK universities.
Benefit from teaching led by world-leading researchers and engage in original research projects within collaborative research groups, continuing Birmingham's tradition of groundbreaking innovation and impactful research.
Course delivery
Teaching is led by our world-leading researchers in the School of Chemistry, complemented by seminars from international sustainability experts. Research projects will be carried out in the groups of our sustainable chemistry experts.
- Learn through of a series of engaging lectures which demonstrate how experts will approach problems in your field, helping you think critically and apply concepts.
- Take part in seminars that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning.
- Receive immediate feedback from instructors during workshops, enabling timely corrections and improving your application of concepts.
- Develop a spectrum of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, time management, and communication through project work.
- Benefit from 1:1 supervision that offers personalised learning which gives you the opportunity to get tailored guidance and feedback that meets your individual needs.
Module information
This programme is a 1 year full time taught masters degree (180 credits) consisting of 120 credits of taught modules and a 60 credit research project.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
2025/26 Session
The following must be taken:
Module Title | Code | Credits |
---|---|---|
Energy Storage and Conversion 1 | 03 39177 | 10 |
Green Chemistry 1 | 03 39179 | 10 |
Life Cycle Assessment | 03 39181 | 20 |
Project Management | 03 40681 | 20 |
Research Project | 03 39187 | 60 |
Research Skills | 03 39184 | 20 |
The Circular Economy | 03 39186 | 20 |
Select 20 credits from the following list. Module 39178 may only be taken in combination with 39177 and Module 39178 may only be taken in combination with 39177.
Module Title | Code | Credits |
---|---|---|
Energy Storage and Conversion 2 | 03 39178 | 10 |
Green Chemistry 2 | 03 39180 | 10 |
Materials for Sustainable Chemistry | 03 39183 | 10 |
Sustainable Polymer Chemistry | 03 39185 | 10 |
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours degree
in Chemistry or a closely related discipline
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill
English Presessional Programmes
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
- £11,740
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying courses over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
- 29 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Career opportunities
Sustainable chemistry is a global growth area, with experts in demand across energy, manufacturing, and recycling sectors. This course is designed to give you the skills, knowledge, and leadership abilities you need to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing society.
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham has developed into a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Student support
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