COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc Medicinal Chemistry program at Leeds provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of modern chemistry, with a particular focus on applications in drug discovery and development. In the first year, students explore the fundamental concepts of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, while developing essential laboratory skills such as safe handling of chemicals, synthesis of molecules, spectroscopic analysis, and data interpretation. Modules also introduce scientific communication, sustainability, and research skills. The second year builds on this foundation with more advanced topics, including organometallic chemistry, structure-activity relationships, chemical pharmacology, kinetics, and thermodynamics. Students gain extensive practical experience, develop professional and research skills, and learn how chemical knowledge applies to drug design, pharmacokinetics, and molecular interactions. Year three allows students to focus on advanced topics such as synthetic methods, bioorganic chemistry, polymeric materials, and drug development, while undertaking a substantial research project to investigate a topic at the forefront of the field. Optional modules provide opportunities to explore ethics, big data applications, and the commercialisation of chemistry research. Across all three years, the program emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience, critical thinking, problem-solving, and the development of transferable skills, preparing graduates for careers in medicinal chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and related scientific disciplines.