Catalysis (MSc)

Overview

Catalysis lies at the heart of many chemical processes, from living systems to large-scale industrial reactors. By understanding and applying catalysts, we can create faster, cleaner, economical and more sustainable processes. With roughly 85% of all products manufactured involve catalysis somewhere in their production chain, career prospects for graduates with specialist knowledge in catalysis are strong. This course will provide you with a sound foundation in catalysis theory and its applications. You will be trained to use a range of laboratory equipment and techniques for testing and characterising catalysts. We will explore three branches of catalysis – heterogeneous, homogeneous and biological – and you’ll have the opportunity to specialise in the area that interests you through a major research project.

Course structure

We're committed to delivering programmes that are innovative and relevant, providing the best learning outcomes and career prospects for our students. In light of this, we're currently reviewing some elements of this programme. As such, the details shown are subject to change and indicative only. You can still apply now. We'll update this page and contact all offer holders when the review is complete to confirm any changes. This course may be taken on a one-year full-time or three-year part-time basis. There are two parts to the degree. Part one is comprised of core and optional taught modules which you will take during the autumn and spring semesters. In these modules we will provide you with a foundation in the theory of heterogeneous, homogeneous and biological catalysis. Optional modules will allow you to specialise in your area of interest. On progression to part two, you will carry out a summer research project in our research laboratories or one of our partner universities. We will make a range of project options available to you from the three areas of catalysis, molecular modelling, or computational chemistry.

Learning and assessment

The methods of teaching we employ will vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on the subject matter and the method of assessment. We teach using a mixture of lectures, workshops, tutorials, practicals and self-directed learning. Your research project will be carried out in research laboratories under the supervision of an academic member of staff with interests in a similar field. Modules relating to computing frequently take place in our computer rooms, while practical work and your research project will be undertaken in our laboratories. Students will also benefit of the weekly seminars organised by the School of Chemistry, where leading experts in various scientific fields are invited to present their work. Taught modules are assessed in a variety of different ways depending on the module content and learning outcomes (found in the module descriptions). We use course work, assessed workshops, presentations and examinations or a combination of these to assess your progress on the course.