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Chemistry with Environmental and Sustainable Chemistry
Undergraduate (Level 8 NFQ , Credits 240 )
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 all our courses including pathways, internships and careers information is available in the UCD Science Undergraduate Courses Entry 2024 Brochure (PDF).
For more information regarding this course, please click School of Chemistry
How do I apply?
For EU students, please apply via MyUCD. The following entry route(s) are available:
| Description | ENTRY | Duration | Application Opening Date | APPURL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry with Environmental and Sustainable Chemistry(CHS2) - Undergraduate Degree (Non EU) | Entry in |
Full Time - 4 Year(s) | Apply from - Oct 2023 |
Apply |
Chemistry with Environmental & Sustainable Chemistry is one of the degree subjects available through the Chemistry stream in the common entry Science course. Students study similar modules for all degree subjects in the Chemistry stream in first year and will study modules for a minimum of two degree subjects in second year. At the end of second year, students choose their degree major. Assuming students meet all the academic requirements in first and second year, students are guaranteed a degree subject from the stream they are studying in second year. We do our best to ensure that students go on to study their top degree subject choice. As we offer plenty of degree subjects in each stream, students have a number of similar degree subjects to choose from as their degree major. For more information on choosing a degree major 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.
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 spent time studying in Sweden, Canada and the USA at University of Lund, University of Virginia and McGill University.
I was always interested in environmental protection and science. The common entry Science course allowed me to develop a holistic understanding of the environment by taking classes in Biology and Geology in addition to my Chemistry modules. I enjoyed Chemistry with Environmental & Sustainable Chemistry the most as it is very solutions focussed. I completed a three-month internship with the Environmental Protection Agency in the summer after third year. I was part of the Industrial Licence Enforcement team in Dublin. I researched and wrote an 8000-word report on 22 special area of conservation peat bog sites and worked as part of a team to prepare for the new solid fuel regulations that came in place last year.
Niamh Gurrin, Student