Physical Organic Chemistry

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.

Special Features

• There will be an opportunity for students to undertake a short research project applying the skills acquired through the taught modules.

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.

Available Modules

• Techniques in Physical Organic Chemistry
• Statistical Mechanics and Kinetics
• Biosynthetic Approach to Natural Products
• Structure and Mechanism in Organic Chemistry
• Current Techniques in Chemical Biology and Modern Applications
• Parameterised Methods

Skills Acquired

The course will provide opportunities for students to develop key skills including learning skills, information handling, (quantitative) data analysis, presentational skills and critical analysis.

The course is suitable for graduates in chemistry or a related discipline, e.g. chemical engineering, physics, pharmacy, pharmacology and biochemistry, with a 1st or 2nd class UK Honours degree, or equivalent.Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to pass either IELTS/TOEFL exams.Note: International students pursuing part-time programmes of study are not eligible for Tier 4 (General Student) visas and must have alternative leave to remain in the UK if they intend to study at the University in person.Please include in your personal statement why you are applying for this course, with specific details such as what you what your future aspirations are, how your educational or professional background makes you a suitable applicant and what interests you about the course. Generic statements will not be accepted. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 75 (Grade B) TOEFL paper-based test score : 600 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.