Chemistry with Placement MChem

Heriot-Watt University ranked first in Scotland for chemistry in the Guardian University Guide 2020. MChem Chemistry with Placement is a 5-year degree accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry which includes a year working in industry or studying abroad.<br/><br/>Chemistry is a dynamic and exciting subject which makes many important contributions to the world. It is a major contributor to the Scottish and UK economies and as such is a secure career pathway. Chemistry plays a crucial role in developing new medicines, materials and energy sources using greener methods for a better future.<br/><br/>At Heriot-Watt University, we make sure the theory we teach is linked to these practical applications so that when our students graduate, they are ready to address the biggest of global challenges. Heriot-Watt University is ranked first in Scotland for chemistry in the Guardian University Guide 2020.<br/><br/>The courses within our five-year MChem Chemistry include extensive laboratory work throughout. They provide students with hands-on experience and opportunities to link theoretical knowledge from lectures to the real world. As a result, our students develop practical lab experience as well as much needed teamwork, problem solving and communication skills.<br/><br/>**Your career prospects**<br/>Chemistry graduates from Heriot-Watt University have an excellent reputation with employers who appreciate their practical abilities, confidence, and communication skills in addition to the extensive, cutting-edge theoretical knowledge they possess. <br/><br/>Graduates from chemistry can work in diverse roles across the pharmaceutical, biomedical, biochemical, health care, agriculture, food, drink and water industries. Opportunities also exist in the chemical, petroleum, electronic, aerospace and communications industries.<br/><br/>In addition to career pathways that directly use their practical skills and chemical knowledge, graduates from chemistry are actively sought by a diverse range of employers because of their problem-solving abilities, numeracy and other transferable graduate skills appropriate for management roles.<br/><br/>**Industrial placement**<br/>Students on MChem Chemistry with Placement can choose an industrial placement to develop their skills and for the company to get to know them. Students will benefit from the staff training and assessment courses of the company and gain wide experience of the industrial sector.<br/><br/>**Study abroad**<br/>Students on MChem Chemistry with Placement can choose to study one year of their degree with a Heriot-Watt University partner institution in Australia, North America, Spain, Germany or France.<br/><br/>**Accreditation**<br/>Accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry for partially meeting the academic criteria for Chartered Chemist (CChem).

Heriot-Watt are 2nd in the UK for undergraduate employability (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2024) and 25th in the UK overall (Complete University Guide, 2025). You’ll have lifelong access to their award-winning Careers Service and join the oldest alumni association in the UK with over 166,000 members in 190 countries – The Watt Club.<br/><br/>A vibrant nightlife, eclectic food scene and plenty of shops and green space – Edinburgh has it all. It’s a safe and friendly city and a great place to be a student. That’s why it’s ranked UK’s 2nd best student-friendly city (QS Best Student Cities, 2025). <br/><br/>Moving away from home is a big decision, which is why students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland are offered a £1,500 bursary. This no-strings-attached bursary means you can visit home anytime during your first year (or spend it on something else).<br/><br/>Register for your Heriot-Watt Priority Pass to make sure you are first in line when Clearing opens, or to chat with their friendly team.