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Chemistry, Ph.D. / MSc by Research / M.Phil.

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High-quality, high-impact chemistry research at our world-class centres

Key Course Details

  • UK
  • EU
  • International
Ph.D. 3 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 4,407
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 4,500
Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 2,203.50
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 2,250
MSc by Research 1 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 4,407
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 4,500
MSc by Research 2 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 2,203.50
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 2,250
M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 4,407
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 4,500
M.Phil. 4 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 2,203.50
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 2,250
Ph.D. 3 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 4,407
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 20,850
Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 2,203.50
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 10,450
MSc by Research 1 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 4,407
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 20,850
MSc by Research 2 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 2,203.50
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 10,450
M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 4,407
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 20,850
M.Phil. 4 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 2,203.50
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 10,450
Ph.D. 3 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 20,250
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 20,850
Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 10,150
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 10,450
MSc by Research 1 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 20,250
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 20,850
MSc by Research 2 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 10,150
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 10,450
M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 20,250
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 20,850
M.Phil. 4 Year Part Time
Location
Singleton Park Campus
Start Date Tuition Fees - Year 1
Apr or Jul 2021 £ 10,125
Oct 2021 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2022 £ 10,450

Course Overview

Start dates: PhD/MPhil/MSc by Research - 1st October, 1st January, 1st April & 1st July.

Chemistry research is thriving at Swansea University. Spanning a wide range of fields, it is set to multiply at a rapid pace over the next three years. Our research groups are currently focused on four themes:

  • Energy
  • Health 
  • New and advanced molecules and materials
  • Water and the environment

These initiatives transcend traditional discipline boundaries and integrate core areas of organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistries while intersecting with engineering, medicine, and other scientific disciplines.

The new Chemistry department at Swansea has a purpose-built, state-of-the-art Chemistry Hub containing modern teaching laboratories, research space and access to a diverse line of research infrastructures.

High-quality, high-impact chemistry research is already taking place in world-class centres at Swansea.

These include:

  • The Centre for NanoHealth
  • The Institute of Mass Spectrometry
  • The Institute of Life Sciences 
  • The Energy Safety Research Institute
  • Multidisciplinary Nanotechnology Centre
  • The Centre for Water Advanced Technologies and Environmental Research
  • The Materials Research Centre

Integrating the new Chemistry department with Engineering, the Medical School and other College of Science departments help us to cultivate an environment of research excellence. This environment allows you to conceptualise, innovate and develop products in a way suited to research in the 21st century. You will be equipped to generate disruptive step-change advances with a tangible impact on urgent global challenges.

Programme Disclaimer

Postgraduate Prospectus

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Welsh Medium Study

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Swansea Science Doctoral Training Centre fosters a growing vibrant community of PhD students

Entry Requirements

The Department of Chemistry are keen to invite applications from well-qualified candidates whose research interest focusses around the themes of Energy, Health, New & Advanced Molecules & Materials, and Water & the Environment.

Qualifications

MSc by Research: Applicants for MSc by Research must normally hold an undergraduate degree in chemistry or a related subject at 2.1 level (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University). See - Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019 and Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019.

MPhil: Applicants for MPhil must normally hold an undergraduate degree in chemistry or a related subject  at 2.1 level (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University). See - Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019 and Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019.

PhD: Applicants for PhD must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level in chemistry or a related subject, or a master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ in chemistry or a related subject (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University). See - Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019 and Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019. 

English Language
IELTS 6.0 Overall (with no individual component below 5.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here.

As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Requirement

Non UK/EU applicants are required to obtain ATAS clearance for this programme of study. Successful applicants are sent ATAS application details by the University PGR Admissions team. Further details on the ATAS scheme can be found at on the government Academic Technology Approval Scheme webpage.

Reference Requirement

As standard, two references are required before we can progress applications to the College/School research programme Admissions Tutor for consideration.

Applications received without two references attached are placed on hold, pending receipt of the outstanding reference(s). Please note that any protracted delay in receiving the outstanding reference(s) may result in the need to defer your application to a later potential start point/entry month, than what you initially listed as your preferred start option.

You may wish to consider contacting your referee(s) to assist in the process of obtaining the outstanding reference(s) or alternatively, hold submission of application until references are sourced. Please note that it is not the responsibility of the University Admissions Office to obtain missing reference(s) after our initial email is sent to your nominated referee(s), requesting a reference(s) on your behalf.

The reference can take the form of a letter on official headed paper, or via the University’s standard reference form. Click this link to download the university reference form.

Alternatively, referees can email a reference from their employment email account, please note that references received via private email accounts, (i.e. Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail) cannot be accepted.

References can be submitted to pgradmissions@swansea.ac.uk.

How you are Supervised

Your work will be supported by inspirational staff including Professor Simon Bott, recipient of eight awards for his instructional teaching at the University of Houston.

Welsh Provision

There are opportunities for Welsh speakers to study through the medium of Welsh and our dedicated academy for Welsh-medium study, Academi Hywel Teifi, is here to support you throughout your time at Swansea University. We offer you:

  • An interview through the medium of Welsh when applying for a place.
  • The option to receive your personal correspondence in Welsh - we will then communicate with you in your language of choice.
  • The option to write and submit your coursework or exams through the medium of Welsh (even if you have chosen to study in English), and every effort will be made to mark your work in its original language.
  • A Welsh-speaking personal tutor.
  • One-to-one support to improve your academic Welsh language skills.

To see further details about the level of provision delivered in Welsh on this particular degree scheme, please see the Welsh-language course page for further information.

Since 2011, there has been a 113% increase in the number of students studying through the medium of Welsh at Swansea University and our TEF* data over the last two years shows that Welsh-medium students are high achievers with regard to employability (*Swansea University TEF return 2017 and 2018).

Tuition Fees

Ph.D. 3 Year Full Time

Start Date UK EU International
October 2020 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
January 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
April 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
July 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
October 2021 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
January 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
April 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
July 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850

Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time

Start Date UK EU International
October 2020 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,150
January 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,150
April 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,150
July 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,150
October 2021 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
January 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
April 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
July 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450

MSc by Research 1 Year Full Time

Start Date UK EU International
October 2020 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
January 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
April 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
July 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
October 2021 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
January 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
April 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
July 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850

MSc by Research 2 Year Part Time

Start Date UK EU International
October 2020 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,150
January 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,150
April 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,150
July 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,150
October 2021 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
January 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
April 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
July 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450

M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time

Start Date UK EU International
October 2020 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
January 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
April 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
July 2021 £ 4,407 £ 4,407 £ 20,250
October 2021 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
January 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
April 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850
July 2022 £ 4,500 £ 20,850 £ 20,850

M.Phil. 4 Year Part Time

Start Date UK EU International
October 2020 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,125
January 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,125
April 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,125
July 2021 £ 2,203.50 £ 2,203.50 £ 10,125
October 2021 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
January 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
April 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450
July 2022 £ 2,250 £ 10,450 £ 10,450

Tuition fees for years of study after your first year are subject to an increase of 3%.

You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page.

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

International students and part-time study: It may be possible for some students to study part-time under the Student Visa route. However, this is dependent on factors relating to the course and your individual situation. It may also be possible to study with us if you are already in the UK under a different visa category (e.g. Tier 1 or 2, PBS Dependant, ILR etc.). Please visit the University information on Visas and Immigration for further guidance and support.

Current students: You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page.

EU Transitional Bursary available for September 2021.

Funding and Scholarships

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study.

Government funding is now available for Welsh, English and EU students starting eligible postgraduate research programmes at Swansea University. To find out more, please visit our postgraduate loans page.

To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

Academi Hywel Teifi at Swansea University and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol offer a number of generous scholarships and bursaries for students who wish to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. For further information about the opportunities available to you, visit the Academi Hywel Teifi Scholarships and Bursaries page.

Additional Costs

Access to your own digital device/the appropriate IT kit will be essential during your time studying at Swansea University. Access to wifi in your accommodation will also be essential to allow you to fully engage with your programme. See our dedicated webpages for further guidance on suitable devices to purchase, and for a full guide on getting your device set up.

You may face additional costs while at university, including (but not limited to):

  • Travel to and from campus
  • Printing, photocopying, binding, stationery and equipment costs (e.g. USB sticks)
  • Purchase of books or texts
  • Gowns for graduation ceremonies

How to Apply

Before applying, please identify a research topic or area by consulting our list of current research areas.

Once you have identified a research topic or an area, please complete a Research Proposal Form which can be downloaded, and discuss this with the Admissions Tutor, Professor Juan Mareque-Rivas, by email.

UK applicants: you can then submit your application online. 

EU and Overseas applicants: you can then submit your application online. 

How to apply for postgraduate study

Suggested Application Timings

In order to allow sufficient time for consideration of your application by an academic, for potential offer conditions to be met and travel / relocation, we recommend that applications are made before the dates outlined below. Please note that applications can still be submitted outside of the suggested dates below but there is the potential that your application/potential offer may need to be moved to the next appropriate intake window.

October Enrolment

UK Applicants – 15th August

EU/International applicants – 15th July

January Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th November

EU/International applicants – 15th October

April Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th February

EU/International applicants – 15th January

July Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th May

EU/International applicants – 15th April

EU students - visa and immigration information is available and will be regularly updated on our information for EU students page.

Suggested Application Timings

In order to allow sufficient time for consideration of your application by an academic, for potential offer conditions to be met and travel / relocation, we recommend that applications are made before the dates outlined below. Please note that applications can still be submitted outside of the suggested dates below but there is the potential that your application/potential offer may need to be moved to the next appropriate intake window.

October Enrolment:
UK Applicants – 15th August
EU/International applicants – 15th July

January Enrolment:
UK applicants – 15th November
EU/International applicants – 15th October

April Enrolment:
UK applicants – 15th February
EU/International applicants – 15th January

July Enrolment:
UK applicants – 15th May
EU/International applicants – 15th April

 

PhD Programme Specification

Programme Information
Award Level (Nomenclature) PhD in Chemistry
Programme Title Chemistry
Director of Postgraduate Research Professor Maurizio Piai
Awarding Body Swansea University
College/School College of Science
Subject Area Chemistry
Frequency of Intake October, January, April, July
Location

Singleton Campus/Bay Campus

Mode of Study

Full/Part time

Duration/Candidature 3/6 years
FHEQ Level 8
External Reference Points QAA Qualification Descriptors for FHEQ Level 8
Regulations Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 
Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation N/A
Exit Awards N/A
Language of Study English

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after enrolment.

Programme Summary

This PhD in Chemistry at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial research project led by your own interests and motivation. It is a highly respected qualification which can lead to a career in academia or industry as well as provide a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The PhD title is awarded following a successful oral (viva voce) examination of the thesis. You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be opportunities to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and national or inter-national conferences and take part in collaborations with other research centres, universities and industrial partners There may also be opportunities to develop your teaching skills through undergraduate tutorials, practical lab demonstrations and seminars.

Programme Aims

This PhD programme will provide doctoral researchers with:

  1. The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading collaborative research environment.
  2. Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
  3. Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement. 

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

  • Entry and confirmation of candidature
  • Main body of research
  • Thesis and viva voce examination

Doctoral researchers may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University or with/at a University approved partner. The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 3 years duration full time (6 years duration part time). 

Assessment

Doctoral researchers for the PhD in Chemistry are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The format of the thesis and the maximum word limit for the main text are determined in conformity with current University regulations. The word limit is 100,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination. The thesis will be sent to internal and external examiners who will be asked to assess the thesis on the ground of original work representing a significant contribution to the field, whether the research is worthy of high-quality scientific publication(s), whether it shows good knowledge of the field, critical judgement, presentation style etc.

Doctoral Researcher Supervision and Support

Doctoral researchers will be advised by a supervisory team of at least two supervisors; a primary (or first supervisor) and co-supervisor (or secondary supervisor), who are typically appointed by the College. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ College/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will be the main contact throughout the doctoral research period and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisors will vary from case to case. The supervisory team may also include supervisors from industry, or a specific area of professional practice, to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities. 

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the doctoral researcher to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money@Campuslife, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Swansea Employability Academy). 

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme, doctoral researchers should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

  • Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of research through the development of a written thesis.
  • Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research, critical review or other advanced scholarship. 
  • Disseminate new knowledge gained through original research or other advanced scholarship via high quality peer reviewed publications within the discipline.
  • Apply research skills and subject theory to the practice of research.
  • Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised. 

Attitudes and values

  • Conceptualise, design and implement a project aimed at the generation of new knowledge or applications within Chemistry.
  • Make informed judgements on complex issues in Chemistry and other related fields, often in the absence of complete data, and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience.
  • Apply sound ethical principles to research, with due regard for the integrity of persons and in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
  • Demonstrate self-awareness of individual and cultural diversity, and the reciprocal impact in social interaction between self and others when conducting research involving people.

Research Skills

  • Respond appropriately to unforeseen problems in project design by making suitable amendments.
  • Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media and events, including conference presentations, seminars and workshops.
  • Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.
  • Develop the networks and foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
  • Implement advanced research skills with a substantial degree of independence.
  • Locate information and apply it to research practice.

Skills and Competencies

  • Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent environments.

Progression Monitoring

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the doctoral researcher is expected to meet regularly with the supervisory team, and at most meetings it is likely that the doctoral researcher’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the doctoral researcher’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. During the Academic year, engagement of the researcher with the programme is monitored periodically, approximately at monthly intervals.

Learning Development 

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors (https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/undertake-research-with-us/postgraduate-research/training-and-skills-development-programme/).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable doctoral researchers to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating. There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the College of Science and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the doctoral researcher in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the College of Science is developing a research culture that aligns with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies.

Research Environment 

Swansea University’s research environment combines an environment that promotes innovation with excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself.

Chemistry research at Swansea University is pioneering multidisciplinary technology development in key themes of energy and environment; health; new and advanced molecules and polymers; nanotechnologies and advanced materials. These research initiatives transcend the traditional discipline boundaries, integrate the core areas of inorganic, organic, physical and analytical chemistries and intersect with other scientific disciplines, medicine and engineering. Our international research spans everything from surface science using molecular beams and spectroscopic techniques, to novel nanoparticle drug delivery systems to innovative plastic recycling techniques, polymer synthesis, energy storage, semiconductor devices and novel inorganic materials for optoelectronics and. We collaborate closely with industry to translate our research into real-world applications and commercialisation.
Career Opportunities

Having a PhD demonstrates that graduates can work effectively in a team, formulate, explore and communicate complex ideas and manage advanced tasks. Jobs in academia (e.g. postdoctoral research, lecturing), industry (e.g. research in chemical, medical, advanced-materials and high-tech industries), education, government, management, as well as many other opportunities within the public or private sector (e.g. administrators, marketing specialists, scientific consultants, patent attorneys and entrepreneurs) are possible. The varied skills obtained by Chemistry PhD graduates will allow them to make a significant and positive impact on society.

The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

MSc by Research Programme Specification

Programme Information
Award Level (Nomenclature) MSc by Research in Chemistry
Programme Title Chemistry
Director of Postgraduate Research Professor Maurizio Pial
Awarding Body Swansea University
College/School Science
Subject Area Chemistry
Frequency of Intake October, January, April, July
Location

Singleton Campus

Mode of Study

Full/Part time

Duration/Candidature 1/2 years
FHEQ Level 7
External Reference Points QAA Qualification Descriptors for FHEQ Level 7
Regulations Degree of Master’s by Research 
Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation N/A
Exit Awards N/A
Language of Study English

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after enrolment.

Programme Summary

This MSc by Research in Chemistry at Swansea will enable you to undertake a research project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can enable a future career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 40,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The Masters is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. 

Programme Aims

This Masters programme will provide students with:

  1. The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
  2. Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
  3. Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

  • Entry and confirmation of candidature
  • Main body of research
  • Thesis and viva voce examination

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 1 year duration full time (2 years duration part time). 

Assessment

Students for the Masters by Research in Chemistry are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The word limit is 40,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination (viva voce).

Supervision and Support 

Students will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ College/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the student journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the student to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money@Campuslife, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Swansea Employability Academy).

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme, doctoral researchers should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

  • Critically reflect on the existing knowledge base, current problems and/or new insights, in the field of Chemistry.
  • Demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline.
  • Apply research skills, methodologies and subject theory to the practice of research.
  • Create, interpret and analyse knowledge in the specific field of study through original research.  

Attitudes and values

  • Undertake research tasks and make informed judgements with minimum guidance. 
  • Apply sound ethical principles to research, with due regard for the integrity of persons and in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
  • Demonstrate self-awareness of individual and cultural diversity, and the reciprocal impact in social interaction between self and others when conducting research involving people.

Research Skills

  • Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level.
  • Approach and resolve complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
  • Evaluate and apply relevant techniques for research in Chemistry.
  • Apply research methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, propose new hypotheses.
  • Work in groups, presenting conclusions and reflecting difference of opinion.
  • Implement independent research skills.
  • Locate information and apply it to research practice.
  • Design and implement a research project.

Skills and Competencies

  • Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and initiative in complex situations.
  • The exercise of initiative and personal responsibility.
  • Decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations.
  • The independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.

Progression Monitoring

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the student is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the student’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the student’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. 

Learning Development 

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors (https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/undertake-research-with-us/postgraduate-research/training-and-skills-development-programme/).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable students to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating. There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the College and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the student in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the College is developing a research culture that will align with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies.

Research Environment 

Swansea University’s Research Environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself.

The College of Science

Swansea College of Science has been recognised as being world-leading and having an impact globally. So many members of the College have contributed to this outcome; the researchers and colleagues who facilitate the excellent research environment and the students who debate and challenge the ideas that are always bubbling here. The amount of talent in the College is vast, and the quality and diversity of research is truly outstanding.

Career Opportunities

Having a Master’s by research degree shows that you can communicate your ideas and manage tasks. Jobs in academia, education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. 

The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

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