Integrated Masters

What is an integrated Masters degree? 

An integrated Masters (MChem) is a four-year degree that extends your three-year undergraduate studies to Masters level. Many students choose to do this due to the greater breadth and depth of study that comes with enhancing their degree. 

Benefits of an integrated Masters 

•    The majority of our UK students undertake a MChem, BSci course as it’s the most direct way of meeting the educational requirements for subsequent registration as a Chartered Chemist.
•    You’ll have the opportunity to take part in a wider range of project work, including a major research project in your final year. You’ll study more advanced topics in chemistry and learn why chemistry is important in industrial, economic, environmental, and social contexts.
•    You’ll develop practical transferable skills such as teamwork, decision-making, delegating, identifying and solving problems, and communication, all of which are attractive to employers. 
•    In a demanding graduate employment market, an integrated Masters degree can enhance your employability by advancing your knowledge and equipping you with sought after professional skills. 
 
Below are some examples of frequently asked questions. 

What happens if I decide during my studies that I no longer wish to undertake the fourth year? 

If you decide during your degree that you no longer wish to undertake the fourth year, that isn't a problem. You have until the middle of the third year to decide whether you wish to graduate after three years with a BSci degree. 

We usually recommend that international students initially apply for a three-year BSci as there might be visa implications if you decide to switch to a three-year course. You can apply to extend your visa to either an integrated Masters or separate Masters from within the UK. 

Is it possible to apply directly for a three-year undergraduate course? 

If you’re sure from the start that you only want to study for three years you can apply directly for a BSci degree course. 

Does the BSci have lower entry requirements than the MChem?

No, the MChem, BSci and BSci courses have the same entry requirements.

Is student finance available for integrated Masters programmes? 

The government offers integrated masters funding in the form of standard student finance. Rather than applying for a postgraduate loan, candidates should apply through the undergraduate student finance platform.