Chemistry at Oxford University
Chemistry at Oxford University is more than a subject — it is a gateway to pioneering scientific discovery, cutting-edge research, and a future of innovation. Consistently ranked among the world’s top universities for chemistry, Oxford offers a rigorous and intellectually stimulating program that blends theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience. Whether you aim to pursue advanced research, enter the pharmaceutical industry, or contribute to sustainable solutions, Oxford equips you with the expertise, skills, and network to excel globally.
In this guide, we will explore the course structure, entry requirements, research opportunities, and career prospects that make Chemistry at Oxford University a world-class choice for aspiring chemists.
Course Overview
| UCAS Code | F100 |
|---|---|
| Entrance Requirements | A*A*A (with both A*s in science or maths subjects) |
| Course Duration | 4 years (MChem) |
Subject Requirements
- Required subjects: Chemistry and Maths
- Recommended subjects: Another science or Further Maths
- Helpful subjects: Not applicable
Other Course Requirements
- Admissions tests: None
- Written work: None
Admissions Statistics
| Interviewed | 66% |
|---|---|
| Successful | 18% |
| Intake | 180 |
About the Course
Chemistry is a broad and dynamic science focused on the study of matter at the atomic and molecular levels. Key areas of the subject include:
- Synthesis
- Structure
- Reaction mechanisms
- Properties
- Analysis
- Transformations of various materials
Chemists play a vital role in innovation—it is difficult to find any modern product that has not benefited from their creativity. Chemistry also forms the foundation for disciplines like biochemistry and molecular medicine and is central to numerous global industries.
At Oxford, teaching and research are deeply interconnected. The University boasts one of the world’s top chemistry departments, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and a wide spectrum of world-class research in areas such as:
- Synthesis and catalysis
- Medicinal and biological chemistry
- Sustainable energy solutions
- Advanced materials
- Cutting-edge measurement techniques
- Theoretical and computational chemistry
Students gain hands-on experience through a dynamic practical course taught in modern laboratories. The department is also renowned for successfully commercialising research, generating significant funding for the University.
The MChem is a four-year integrated course. It is not modular, meaning the subject is taught and assessed holistically—this approach allows students to fully explore the connections between different areas of chemistry.
All students study the core curriculum, with opportunities to specialise in later years. The fourth year (Part II) is entirely research-focused, a hallmark of Oxford’s Chemistry programme since 1916.
► To learn more about Chemistry at Oxford, watch our video: Chemistry at Oxford.
► For a closer look at our undergraduate teaching labs, visit: Chemistry Teaching Laboratory.
Work Placements and International Opportunities
In the fourth year (Part II) of the course, students undertake full-time research as part of an established research group. For a select number of students, this may include the chance to work in industrial laboratories or at partner universities overseas.
Additionally, many students secure vacation work placements through the University’s Careers Service, and some opportunities are also available within the Chemistry department itself.
Course Structure
Year 1
Courses: Students are introduced to the fundamental areas of Chemistry—Inorganic, Organic, and Physical Chemistry—alongside Mathematics for Chemistry. Topics such as Biological Chemistry and Physics are also covered, with a strong focus on their relevance to chemistry.
Teaching Methods: Instruction is delivered through lectures, practical lab work, tutorials, and small group classes.
Assessment:
- Preliminary Examination: Four written papers
- Continuous assessment of practical work
Year 2
Courses: The second year deepens students' knowledge and covers the majority of the core curriculum. Topics include Theoretical Chemistry, Biological Chemistry, Molecular Spectroscopy, and Synthetic Chemistry.
Teaching Methods: A combination of lectures, practical work, tutorials, and small group classes.
Assessment:
- Part IA Examinations: Three written papers
- Continuous assessment of practical work
Year 3
Courses: Students complete the core material and choose from a range of optional courses, many of which are aligned with current research areas in the department.
Teaching Methods: Learning continues through lectures, practical sessions, tutorials, and small classes.
Assessment:
- Part IB Examinations: Seven written papers
- Continuous assessment of practical work
Year 4 (Extended Terms)
Research: The final year is dedicated entirely to a full-time research project within one of Oxford’s leading research laboratories. Each student is supervised by a faculty member and has full access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
Assessment:
- Part II Examination: Submission of a thesis and an oral examination
The final degree classification is awarded at the end of the fourth year.
Note: This course is currently under review. For the most up-to-date information on course content and any changes, please refer to the Chemistry website.
Academic Requirements
A-levels: AAA, including Chemistry and Mathematics. Both A* grades must be in science or mathematics subjects.
See the full list of acceptable A subjects here.
Advanced Highers (Scotland): AA or AAB, including Chemistry and Mathematics.
International Baccalaureate (IB): Total score of 40 points (including core points), with one of the following subject combinations:
- For applicants taking HL Mathematics:
- 7 in HL Chemistry
- 6 in HL Mathematics
- Overall: 766 at Higher Level
- For applicants taking SL Mathematics:
- 7 in both HL Chemistry and a second HL science subject
- 7 in SL Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
- Overall: 776 at Higher Level
Other Qualifications: We accept a range of UK and international qualifications. View the full list of accepted qualifications here.
Contextual Consideration: Where possible, we assess your academic achievements in the context in which they were earned. Learn more about how we use contextual data here.
Subject Requirements Details
Essential: Applicants must have studied Chemistry and Mathematics at A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB, or an equivalent qualification.
- For IB students, a 7 in Standard Level Mathematics is acceptable only if taken as Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches.
Recommended: An additional science subject or Further Mathematics is strongly recommended to strengthen your application.
Additional Notes:
- If your science A-levels include a practical component, you will be expected to pass the practical assessment as part of your offer conditions.
- If English is not your first language, you may need to meet Oxford’s English language requirements.
- If your personal or educational background means you are unlikely to meet the standard entry grades, but you have a strong interest in Chemistry, consider applying for the Chemistry with Foundation Year programme.
For full details on academic requirements and eligibility, please visit the official course pages.
Applications
All applicants must follow the standard application process outlined on the Applying to Oxford pages. Below are specific details for those applying to this Chemistry course:
- Admissions Test: No admissions test is required for this course.
- Written Work: Applicants are not required to submit any written work as part of the application.
What Are Tutors Looking For?
- Strong academic ability and motivation
- Potential for advanced study in Chemistry
- Analytical thinking and clear communication
- Willingness to engage with unfamiliar problems and explore possible solutions
More information on the selection criteria can be found on the Chemistry website.
► To learn more about the admissions process, watch our video: Oxford Chemistry Admissions.
Careers
Chemistry forms the foundation of many of the UK’s most economically significant industries, all of which rely on a steady supply of highly skilled graduate chemists. The vast majority of our graduates either enter employment immediately or continue with postgraduate study.
Studying Chemistry not only sharpens your analytical and problem-solving abilities but also equips you with a wide range of transferable skills that are valuable across numerous professions.
Approximately 55% of our graduates pursue research or further academic study. Others move into diverse careers such as:
- Scientific journalism
- Consultancy
- Patent law
- Teaching
In the long term, more than half of Chemistry graduates remain in roles that are directly or indirectly related to the field.
Support is available throughout your time at Oxford and beyond, with the University Careers Service offering guidance, resources, and networking opportunities. Additional career information is available through the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Fees and Funding
| Fee Status | Annual Course Fees (2025–26) |
|---|---|
| Home | £9,535.00 |
| Overseas | £59,260.00 |
For full details on fee status eligibility, please visit the Fee Status webpage.
More information about tuition costs can be found on our Course Fees page. Please note that fees typically increase each year. For guidance on expected changes, see our page on likely increases to fees and charges.
Living Expenses
Living expenses at Oxford may be lower than anticipated, thanks to the extensive resources and support provided by colleges and the University. For the academic year starting in 2025, estimated living costs range between £1,425 and £2,035 per month while studying in Oxford. The academic year consists of three eight-week terms, meaning most students are in residence for just over six months per year. However, it is advisable to budget for a nine-month period to ensure you have sufficient funds to cover essential expenses during the holidays.
For more detailed information, please visit our Living Costs webpage.
Financial Support
Home Students (UK, Irish nationals, and eligible others*)
- Tuition Fees: A tuition fee loan is available from the UK government to cover course fees in full for Home students undertaking their first undergraduate degree. This means you won’t need to pay your tuition fees upfront.
- Bursaries and Living Costs Support: In 2025, Oxford will offer one of the most generous bursary packages in the UK.
- Students with a household income of around £50,000 or less may be eligible for financial support.
- Additional funding is available for those from households earning £32,500 or less.
- The UK government also offers living cost support for students who meet residence requirements.
*From 1 August 2021, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals are eligible for UK student finance only if they have UK citizens’ rights (e.g. pre-settled or settled status, or are Irish citizens under the Common Travel Area agreement). Support varies based on your residency status.
→ See further details on eligibility here.
Islands Students (Channel Islands and Isle of Man)
Students from the Islands receive different financial support compared to the rest of the UK. Please consult your local funding agency for guidance:
Overseas Students
International students can find funding opportunities under the “Other Scholarships” section of our Oxford Bursaries and Scholarships page.
Note: If you have already completed an undergraduate degree, you may be considered an Equivalent or Lower Qualification (ELQ) student. In this case, you are not eligible for UK government or Oxford financial support.
Additional Fees and Charges – Chemistry
In the fourth year, Chemistry students engage in full-time research under the supervision of a member of the academic staff. This final year is made up of three extended terms, each lasting 12 to 13 weeks, resulting in a total of 38 weeks—longer than the standard academic year.
As a result, you should budget for higher living costs during this year, since you will be required to remain in Oxford for a longer period.
→ View the estimated cost of living for an additional month here.
This research-focused final year is a distinctive feature of the Oxford Chemistry course and provides you with valuable research skills that are highly regarded by both academic institutions and employers.
Life at College
Oxford’s colleges are central to its reputation as one of the world’s leading universities. As a student, you will be a member of a college, your academic department(s), and the University—giving you the best of both worlds: access to a globally renowned institution and a close-knit academic community.
What Colleges Offer
- A porters’ lodge (staffed entrance and reception)
- Dining hall
- Lending library (often open 24/7 during term)
- Student accommodation
- Tutors’ teaching rooms
- Chapel and/or music rooms
- Laundry facilities
- Green spaces
- A common room (known as the JCR – Junior Common Room)
Accommodation
- All first-year students are guaranteed college accommodation—either on the main site or in a nearby annexe. This makes it easy to settle in, as your neighbours will also be new to Oxford.
- Most colleges offer accommodation for at least one more year, and some provide housing for the entire duration of your degree.
- You can choose to stay in college housing throughout, or opt to live elsewhere after your first year—often with friends from other colleges.
Student Support
- Your college tutors will primarily support your academic development but are also available for broader advice.
- Additional staff, such as welfare officers, are there to help you settle in and can offer guidance on health, wellbeing, and practical matters.
- Many students also receive support from peers, through college families or as trained peer supporters via the University Counselling Service.
→ Read more about Oxford colleges and how to choose the right one for you here.
Connect with Us
The Department of Chemistry offers a range of dedicated outreach programmes, events, and activities designed to promote chemistry and support talented students from all backgrounds in applying to the course.
Our goal is to inspire young people to pursue studies in the chemical sciences beyond school and to provide the guidance they need to achieve this ambition.
One key initiative is UNIQ, Oxford’s flagship outreach programme for UK state school students in their first year of further education. Each year, UNIQ offers over 1,500 students the chance to experience Oxford-style teaching and receive tailored support with their university applications.
If you’re interested in studying Chemistry at Oxford, we encourage you to explore the subject-specific resources and opportunities available on the Department of Chemistry website.
Please note: some outreach events may require advance booking or have specific eligibility criteria.
In addition to department-led activities, we also encourage you to explore the University’s outreach event calendar for upcoming University-wide, subject-specific, and college-based events.
A wide range of supercurricular resources to support learners of all ages is available through:
- The University’s Digital Resource Hub
- The Suggested Subject Resources webpage
- Oxplore, our interactive learning platform for 11–18-year-olds
Prospective applicants can also sign up for step-by-step guidance on completing their Oxford application.
To learn more about Oxford’s widening access initiatives and discover other ways to engage with us before applying, please visit the relevant pages on the University website.