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This MSc in Synthetic Chemistry is designed for Chemistry graduates who are interested in deepening their knowledge of synthetic chemistry with a view to pursuing a career in either the fine chemical or pharmaceutical industries. There is a strong demand for these synthetic chemistry skills, e.g. nine of the top ten largest pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in the world have major facilities in Ireland, and seven of the ten top best-selling pharmaceutical products are made in Ireland.

Students will take 60 credits in taught modules focusing on areas such as the synthesis of organic compounds and drug-like substances, techniques for structure determination, and methods for drug discovery. In addition, there is a 30 credit research project and students will be able to choose research topics in relevant areas, including catalysis, carbohydrate chemistry and asymmetric synthesis. The UCD School of Chemistry has vibrant research in catalysis and the synthesis of biologically active compounds, and it has strong links with pharmaceutical and fine chemical companies in Ireland and globally.

What modules can I take?

The structure of the programme is as follows:

90 credits taught masters: 60 credits taught modules and 30 credits research project

Careers & Employability

The MSc in Synthetic Chemistry provides a basis for graduates to enter the chemical, pharmaceutical, bio-pharmaceutical and materials industries. Analytical services, environmental protection, and primary and secondary school teaching present other possible opportunities. This course is also a route for some students into a PhD programme.

Programme Outcomes

• Analyse scientific results and communicate them clearly, both verbally and in written form, according to the conventions of the discipline.
• Be able to use on-line resources for searching the literature and collating and analysing primary research.
• Demonstrate an ability to take significant responsibility, both alone and in groups, and be able to act in a wide variety of professional levels and contexts.
• Demonstrate the ability to self-evaluate, and take responsibility for self-directed further study or continuous professional development.
• Demonstrate the specialised technical knowledge and skills required to work safely in synthetic chemistry laboratories.
• Design and implement efficient, safe and sustainable methods for the synthesis of molecules and materials especially drug-like ‘small molecule’ targets.
• Develop and employ methods for the measurement, characterisation, and analysis of molecular systems.
• Display, to a high level, a systematic and in-depth knowledge of methods for the synthesis of target molecules.
• Understand the nature of scientific research and be able to design, plan and execute research projects.