Chemistry with Environmental & Sustainable Chemistry

Two major problems are facing industrialised society. How do we maintain our standards of living without, firstly, using non-renewable resources as sources of energy and as raw materials for manufacturing industries and, secondly, compromising our local and global environment? Chemistry with Environmental & Sustainable Chemistry will be central to solving these problems. This discipline, which draws from all branches of chemistry, will enable us to produce the materials and energy we use through ways that minimise the impact on the environment. Furthermore, it will be crucial in developing a variety of resources (solar power, biofuel synthesis, fuel cells, etc.) for use in renewable energy generation. The degree subject is suitable for students who have an interest in the use of chemistry in tackling these urgent problems.

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 with Environmental & Sustainable 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
Environmental & Sustainable Chemistry • Organic Chemistry • Physical Chemistry • Basis of Inorganic 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 • Optional Modules in Earth Sciences & Ecology • Elective Modules 

Fourth Year
Research Project • Advanced Inorganic Chemistry • Electrochemistry • Green and Sustainable Chemistry • Methods in Organic Synthesis • Modern Methods & Catalysis •Sustainable Development Chemistry • Reactivity and Change • Nanomaterials Chemistry 

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 and McGill University.

Apart from the disciplines that are available to graduates with a BSc in Chemistry, graduates in Chemistry with Environmental & Sustainable Chemistry will be particularly suited to employment in the environmental and emerging energy industries, including commercial environmental analysis, alternative energy industry, Environmental Protection Agency, ESB and Bord Gáis.

Graduates can also pursue a range of MSc or PhD opportunities in Ireland or abroad.

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 the Environmental Protection Agency and Colas Bitumen Emulsions East. Students can also apply for research placements in UCD labs.

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

More information about the internship module and application process.

• 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).

By studying an undergraduate degree in the Science programme, you will be joining a global community of scientists and will be taught by world-class researchers at the forefront of research in one of the most innovative and diverse programmes in Ireland, encompassing biology, sustainability, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, mathematics and computer science. Faculty who teach on the Science programme draw on their research to provide an inclusive and equitable education for scientists who will be leaders and innovators in a range of industries and research institutes working towards a sustainable and equitable future. 

The curriculum is informed by the following research:

• Exploring and understanding the processes that drive and can mitigate and enable adaptation to global change from evolutionary, environmental and social perspectives at levels ranging from molecular and genetic to individual, ecosystem and landscape

• Translating fundamental discoveries to a greater understanding of health and disease, with the ultimate aim of informing novel drug discovery

• Performing fundamental and applied research with a focus on current societal challenges including the energy transition, environmental change, geohazards and access to natural resources

The College of Science offers a range of degree subjects within the Science and Sustainability common entry courses that embed sustainability principles and are working towards the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Good Health and Well-being (SGD 3)
• Quality Education (SDG 4)
• Affordable and Clean Energy (SGD 7)
• Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
• Sustainable Cities and Communities (SGD 11)
• Responsible Consumption and Production (SGD 12)
• Life Below Water (SDG 14)
• Life on Land (SDG 15)

The programmes at UCD are designed to equip students with the best education in their chosen field, while at the same time embedding the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs) in their education where most relevant.

I have always been passionate about STEM, and UCD gave me the opportunity to explore many areas of interest with excellent facilities and support. I chose to study this course because it integrates biology and physics in a way that elegantly explains the world around us. The laboratory sessions have been the most enjoyable part of my studies, allowing me to build practical skills, collaborate with peers, and learn from experts. I’m especially interested in how chemistry can address global challenges like climate change. After graduation, I hope to pursue a PhD and contribute to Ireland’s sustainability and EU 2050 climate goals.

James, Student