Molecular Chemistry

Description: The Master's degree program in Molecular Chemistry at Radboud University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of chemical structures, reaction mechanisms, and the synthesis of molecules at the atomic and molecular levels. This program emphasizes the development of advanced skills in designing and analyzing complex chemical systems, as well as applying experimental and computational techniques to solve real-world problems in chemistry and related fields. Students will explore a wide array of topics including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, gaining a deep understanding of molecular interactions, spectroscopy, and catalysis. The program also offers specialized courses in modern fields such as nanochemistry, chemical biology, and sustainable chemistry, preparing students for careers in research, industry, or further academic pursuits. Throughout the program, students engage in extensive laboratory work, gain experience with state-of-the-art instruments, and participate in research projects under the guidance of experienced faculty members. Collaboration and communication skills are emphasized, enabling graduates to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and present their findings clearly. The Master's in Molecular Chemistry aims to equip students with a solid foundation in chemical principles, innovative problem-solving abilities, and the flexibility to adapt to rapidly evolving scientific landscapes. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for PhD studies, employment in pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and materials industries, or roles in research and development, quality control, and consultancy. The program's strong focus on research, complemented by practical skills, ensures that students are ready to contribute to scientific advancements and address current challenges related to health, environment, and technology.

Key courses: Systems Chemistry, Advanced Organic Synthesis, Molecular Materials, Polymer Chemistry, Instrumental Analysis.

A completed Bachelor's degree

In general, you are admitted with the equivalent of a Dutch Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Science with relevant subjects, or a related programme in molecular science. In case of other pre-education, students must have passed preliminary examinations containing the subject matter in the admission criteria below (or equivalent literature). Any deficiencies in this matter should be eliminated before you can take part in a specialisation. If you want to make sure that you meet our academic requirements, please contact the academic advisor.

Courses with ‘final qualifications’ compliant to general textbooks in the majority of the following scientific domains:

• General Chemistry: min 3 EC from standard university textbook, e.g. Chemistry by Zumdahl (Cengage Learning)
• Chemical Analysis: min 3 EC from standard university textbook, e.g Quantitative Chemical Analysis by Harris (Freeman)
• Organic chemistry: min 6 EC from standard university textbook, e.g. Organic Chemistry by Bruice (Pearson)
• Inorganic chemistry: min 3 EC from standard university textbook, e.g. Inorganic Chemistry by Housecroft & Sharpe (Pearson)
• Physical chemistry/thermodynamics: min 6 EC from standard university textbook, e.g. Physical Chemistry by Atkins & De Paula (Freeman)
• Mathematics and physics: min 6 EC from standard university textbook, e.g. College Physics by Serway, Faughn & Vuille (Brooks/Cole)
• Quantum mechanics/chemical bonding: min 9 EC from standard university textbook, e.g. College Physics by Serway, Faughn & Vuille (Brooks/Cole)
• Spectroscopy: min 3 EC from standard university textbook e.g. Fourier Transforms in Spectroscopy by Kauppinen & Partanen (Wiley-VCH)
• Solid state chemistry/physics: min 6 EC from standard university textbook, e.g. Solid State Physics by Hook & Hall
• Experimental skills (min 6 EC of practical courses on organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry and/or physics)
• 30 EC of chemistry- or physics-related courses on third year bachelor level

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

• A TOEFL score of >575 (paper based) or >90 (internet based)
• An IELTS score of >6.5
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

* Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Bachelor's degree program in Molecular Chemistry at Radboud University offers students a comprehensive foundation in the principles and applications of chemistry, with a particular focus on molecular structures, reactions, and the mechanisms that govern chemical processes. The program emphasizes a strong theoretical background combined with practical laboratory skills, preparing students for careers in research, industry, or further academic study.

Throughout the program, students explore core topics such as organic and inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical methods, and biochemistry. They gain hands-on experience through laboratory exercises, projects, and internships, which enhance their ability to design experiments, analyze data, and solve complex chemical problems. The program also incorporates elements of mathematics and physics to support a thorough understanding of molecular phenomena.

Radboud University fosters a research-oriented learning environment, encouraging students to participate in scientific research projects, often in collaboration with faculty members recognized for their expertise in molecular chemistry. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an investigative mindset, all essential for a successful career in science.

The program aims to prepare graduates for a variety of roles, including research scientists, chemical industry professionals, and further specializations through master's programs in fields like medicinal chemistry, materials science, or molecular biology. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, students are also encouraged to consider the societal impact of chemical sciences and contribute to developing sustainable solutions in chemistry.

Language of instruction is primarily English, reflecting the international orientation of the program and preparing students for a global scientific community. The program duration is typically three years, and students are supported by state-of-the-art laboratories, modern teaching methods, and access to extensive academic resources.

Overall, Radboud University’s Molecular Chemistry bachelor’s program offers a rigorous and inspiring education in chemistry, grounded in scientific research and aimed at equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for a successful scientific career.