MSc in Physical Organic Chemistry (Subject to Validation)
Subject to approval by Cardiff University, this course is expected to be available from September 2009.
Course Aims:
This new course explores the physical aspects of organic chemistry. Physical organic chemistry finds application in many differing situations such as organic synthesis, chemical biology, green chemistry, catalysis, materials science and alternative energy research. The course will train the student in the scientific approach employed in physical organic chemistry. This approach involves the combined use of different techniques, such as theory, computational science, mechanistic analysis, organic synthesis and a variety of instrument-based techniques. This combined approach can then be applied to solve problems through a quantitative understanding of key processes.
Course Description:
Students will gain a feel for the potential applications of the techniques and approaches of physical organic chemistry and will be able to apply this knowledge to developing a quantitative understanding of reactions and proposing potential improvements to existing processes in organic chemistry, biology, biosynthesis, environmental and green processes. The acquired skills will be put into practice in a short project forming part of currently ongoing research.
Duration
1 year full-time, 3 years part-time.
Special Features:
- There will be an opportunity for students to undertake a short research project applying the skills acquired through the taught modules.
- The course will provide opportunities for students to develop key skills including learning skills, information handling, (quantitative) data analysis, presentational skills and critical analysis.
Entry Requirements:
The course is suitable for graduates in chemistry or a related discipline, e.g. chemical engineering, physics, pharmacy, pharmacology and biochemistry, with a First or Second class UK Honours degree, or equivalent.
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate competency in English language (at least 6.5 in IELTS or a TOEFL score of 580 or 232 CBT).
