Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry with Foundation Year

Chemistry with medicinal chemistry is a degree that sits at the interface of fundamental chemical science and the applied science of designing medicines. It combines rigorous training in core chemistry with a focused specialisation in the biological and chemical principles that underlie how drugs are designed, synthesised, and tested. As the pharmaceutical industry continues to develop new treatments for complex diseases, the demand for chemists who understand both the science of molecules and the specific requirements of medicinal chemistry is strong and growing.

At Keele University, this four-year full-time BSc is accredited and provides a solid grounding in the core areas of chemistry alongside the specialist knowledge of medicinal chemistry. You will explore the complex biological and chemical problems involved in the design and synthesis of new clinical drugs, working in sector-leading laboratories to develop practical skills in chemical synthesis, analytical techniques, and drug design. The programme builds both the scientific depth and the professional competencies that careers in biomedical research and the pharmaceutical industry require.

A foundation year is included for students who need to build their scientific foundations before entering the main degree programme.

You will develop a toolkit of skills including drug design, chemical synthesis, pharmacological principles, and laboratory practice, alongside the analytical and critical thinking abilities that the discipline demands.

Graduates go on to careers in pharmaceutical research and development, drug discovery, clinical trials, medicinal chemistry, chemical synthesis, and quality assurance in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Many also pursue postgraduate study at master's or doctoral level, building the deep specialist expertise needed for research careers in drug discovery or biomedical science. Keele's strong research environment in both chemistry and medicinal chemistry supports progression into academic and industrial research roles.