This is a sample pathway for a degree in Chemistry. Topics include physical, inorganic and organic chemistry, chemistry of materials, instrumental analysis and spectroscopy.

First Year

Chemistry • Mathematics • Optional Science modules • Elective module

Second Year

Chemistry • +1 Science subject • Elective modules

Third Year

Chemistry • Elective modules

Fourth Year

Chemistry (includes a research project).

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.

The pharmaceutical industry is one of the largest in Ireland, and UCD Chemistry graduates work in the following:

• Analytical roles in laboratories on the synthesis, testing and analysis of active pharmaceutical ingredients, medicines and medical devices.
• Research chemist roles in laboratories in research and development.
• Management and supervisory roles in regulatory affairs, production and validation.

The semiconductor and 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
• 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 spent time studying at the following universities:

• University of Lund, Sweden
• University of Virginia, USA
• McGill University, Canada
• University of British Columbia, Canada
• University of Colorado at Boulder, USA
• Villanova University, USA 

"I am fascinated by the world around me, from the fundamental laws of our universe to the mechanisms of life itself. I have found Chemistry in UCD to be a place where my own curiosities and my passion to make a difference have been nurtured and developed. The lecturers are all kind, helpful and supportive, and their passion for their work is something I continue to find inspiring. Through UCD I was lucky enough to be awarded a scholarship to study for a term in the US, where I made many friends and grew as a chemist, and as a person. The UCD community is an incredible environment and there is a society or club for everyone."

Liam Jowett, Graduate