Chemistry

All materials and living things consist of atoms that are linked together in many different ways in molecules. Chemistry is a study of these molecules, how they form and react. Life, metabolism, pharmaceuticals, forensic analysis and the development of new energy supplies, computer chips and medical devices: none of these can be fully developed or understood without chemistry.

Information on pathways, internships and careers is available in the Undergraduate Courses Brochure (PDF).

Chemistry is one of the degree subjects in the Chemistry Stream of the common entry Science course. After meeting the requirements for their preferred stream(s) in first year and studying at least two subjects in second year, students submit their degree subject preferences. While we aim to accommodate student preferences, places can be competitive.

For more information on choosing a degree subject at the end of Second Year, visit the Chemistry Sciences stream page.

This is a sample set of modules that a Chemistry student could study each year in UCD.

First Year

Scientific Enquiry • Basis of Organic & Biological Chemistry • Basis of Inorganic Chemistry • The Molecular World • Linear Algebra for Science • Calculus for Science • Optional Science Modules • Elective Module

Second Year

Organic Chemistry • Basis of Physical Chemistry • Basis of Inorganic Chemistry • Physical Chemistry • + modules for 1 other Science Subject • Elective Modules

Third Year

Quantum Mechanics • Instrumental Analysis • Carbonyl Chemistry & Synthesis • Structure Determination & Aromatic Heterocyclic Chemistry • Mechanism & Stereochemistry • Symmetry & Computational Chemistry • Organometallic & Solid State Chemistry • Soft Matter & Interfacial Chemistry • Chemical Thermodynamics & Physical Transformations • Advanced Transition Metal Chemistry • Option Modules • Elective Modules

Fourth Year

Research Project • Methods in Organic Synthesis • Advanced Inorganic Chemistry • Electrochemistry • Reactivity & Change • Advanced Topics in Physical Chemistry • Nanochemistry • Modern Methods & Catalysis

Timetables & Assessment
Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full-time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

Students have spent time studying in Sweden, Canada and the USA at University of Lund, University of Virginia, McGill University, University of British Columbia, University of Colorado at Boulder and Villanova University.

The pharmaceutical industry is one of the largest in Ireland, and UCD Chemistry graduates work in a variety of roles. This includes analytical roles in laboratories on the testing and analysis of active pharmaceutical ingredients, medicines, and medical devices. Some graduates pursue research chemist roles in laboratories in research and development. Management and supervisory roles are also an option in regulatory affairs, production and validation. The semiconductor, medical device and energy industries also hire a significant number of materials chemists, and graduates would be involved in semiconductor processing, effluent and raw materials monitoring, and air and water quality measurements.

Chemistry graduates also pursue PhDs in Ireland or abroad in areas as diverse as total synthesis of natural products, biological aspects of nanoscience, novel material synthesis, energy generation, synthetic organic chemistry, methodology development and polymer chemistry.

Students have the opportunity to complete a Professional Placement module worth 5 credits. This module provides students with an opportunity to undertake a placement in industry (6-10 weeks) in the summer following third year. Students in recent years have completed internships in IRLCA, Boston Scientific, APC Ltd and in hospital placements. Students can also apply for research placements in UCD labs.

Placements are secured on a competitive basis and are subject to change each year.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET
• Open Learning Entry Route
• Mature Entry Route
• DARE Entry Route
• HEAR Entry Route
• University Access

UCD Science Office

You can contact the UCD Science Office in the following ways:

• Submit your query using our dedicated Contact Form.


• Drop into the office in the UCD O'Brien Centre for Science, Science East, Room E1.09. Our office opening hours are 10am to 4pm (during term time).

What I enjoyed most about my studies was the teaching environment. The professors were actively involved in research in the fields they taught. Their enthusiasm made even the most complex topics easier to understand. The science study rooms were great spaces to work through assignments and exam prep alongside friends, which really helped me stay motivated. The social side of the course was amazing too. With so many students, it was easy to find your people, and the combination of big lectures and small tutorials helped build real connections.

Sarah, Graduate