The degree programme of Master of Science (MSc) by Research in the School of Chemistry consists of a twelve-month (full time) research project with a distinct contribution to knowledge. Projects are supervised by one of our staff members who will monitor the progress of your research training. After this period, the candidate should write a thesis and may be asked to defend it in a viva examination.
This programme is ideal if you already have a significant knowledge of your subject at undergraduate level (e.g. BSc), and are now looking to learn research techniques for one year in a real lab environment within a research group. The MSc by Research has no taught component; however you will receive proper training in research-related skills such as scientific communications and public engagement and you will be able to attend masters courses taught as part of our standard integrated MSci degree programme.
The application procedure is similar to that of a PhD application. and you can apply at any time of the year. Before applying, you should contact a potential supervisor with your enquiries. Please visit our research pages for more information on the research that we undertake.
International Students and Scholarships
Over 40% of the young researchers in the School of Chemistry have come to Birmingham from outside the UK, and this contributes to the strong international atmosphere that is a major feature of the School of Chemistry. Students from the EU, generally, have the same scholarship opportunities as UK students. International students from outside the EU can obtain information on postgraduate scholarships from the links below:
Visit us
If you'd like to find out more about the programmes on offer, or to fully understand the difference you could make by joining us, there is no better way than visiting the University at the next open day.