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MSc in Chemistry by Research (2024 Entry)

Find out more about this MSc in Chemistry by Research degree.

Join one of our specialised research groups to conduct an MSc by Research in an exciting scientific area. With some of the best research infrastructure and facilities in the UK, you will have the opportunity to work with our leading scientists on a cutting-edge research project.


Course overview

An MSc by research provides an opportunity for you to spend one year full-time (two years part-time) conducting scientific research in an area in which you wish to specialise. You need to find an academic willing to supervise you and propose together a research topic. You write up a thesis at the end of your studies.

To contact the department directly with any questions please email chem-postgraduate at warwick dot ac dot uk.


General entry requirements

Minimum requirements

2:2 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a related subject.


English language requirements

You can find out more about our English language requirementsLink opens in a new window. This course requires the following:

  • Band A
  • IELTS overall score of 6.5, minimum component scores not below 6.0.

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

For more information, please visit the international entry requirements pageLink opens in a new window.


Additional requirements

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

Our research

Established ground-breakers and highly talented early-career researchers unite to deliver internationally excellent and world-class research across the chemical sciences with 100% of our research judged world-leading or internationally excellent by REF 2021.

Through close collaboration with the wider STEM community, our fundamental chemistry challenges the frontiers of knowledge for tomorrow whilst impactful research tackles the issues of today. Ambitious entrepreneurism and effective routes to real-world applications ensure benefits to academia, industry, and society.

With ongoing investment into state-of-the art research and education facilities and infrastructure, we sit firmly at the forefront of science globally, both now and in the future as we grow to meet the rising demands for flexible, world-class innovation.

Current research themes include:

  • Chemical, Structural and Synthetic Biology
  • Materials and Polymers
  • Synthesis and Catalysis
  • Measurement and Modelling

You can find out more information about each theme on our website.

You can also read our general University research proposal guidanceLink opens in a new window to help guide you in articulating your research question.

Find a supervisor

You can use the link below and discuss with them the area you would like to research.

Explore our Chemistry Staff DirectoryLink opens in a new window where you will be able to filter by:

  • Research Theme
  • Research Specialism
  • Global Challenge

You can also see our general University guidance about finding a supervisor.

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.

Find your research course fees


Fee Status Guidance

The University carries out an initial fee status assessment based on information provided in the application and according to the guidance published by UKCISA. Students are classified as either Home or Overseas Fee status and this can determine the tuition fee and eligibility of certain scholarships and financial support.

If you receive an offer, your fee status will be stated with the tuition fee information. If you believe your fee status has been incorrectly classified you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire (follow the instructions in your offer) and provide the required documentation for this to be reassessed.

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides guidance to UK universities on fees status criteria, you can find the latest guidance on the impact of Brexit on fees and student support on the UKCISA website.


Additional course costs

Please contact your academic department for information about department specific costs, which should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:

  • Core text books
  • Printer credits
  • Dissertation binding
  • Robe hire for your degree ceremony

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support

Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.

Living costs

Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.

Department content block about careers

Chemistry at Warwick

Do you share our enthusiasm for chemistry and its applications, from medicine to renewable energy?

We are one of the UK’s top chemistry providers, highly-ranked for both teaching and research. Our courses will offer you an excellent all-round experience that allows you to explore and follow your curiosity.

The skills you will develop will equip you to pursue a future career in a number of industries with a number of employers.

Find out more about our research students’ careers and destinations on our website.

Find out more about us on our websiteLink opens in a new window


Our Postgraduate Taught courses

We offer non-accredited and Royal Society of Chemistry accredited course routes, depending on your career aspirations.


Our Postgraduate Research courses

How to apply

The application process for courses that start in September and October 2024 will open on 2 October 2023.

For research courses that start in September and October 2024 the application deadline for students who require a visa to study in the UK is 2 August 2024. This should allow sufficient time to complete the admissions process and to obtain a visa to study in the UK.

How to apply for a postgraduate research course  

After you’ve applied

Find out how we process your application.

Applicant Portal

Track your application and update your details.

Admissions statement

See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

Join a live chat

Ask questions and engage with Warwick.

Warwick Hosted EventsLink opens in a new window

Our hosted events run throughout the year, with a mixture of virtual and in-person sessions. These events are a great way to learn more about our courses and departments, chat to current students and staff, and find out more information about accommodation, careers, and how to apply.

Postgraduate Fairs

Throughout the year we attend exhibitions and fairs online and in-person around the UK. These events give you the chance to explore our range of postgraduate courses, and find out what it’s like studying at Warwick. You’ll also be able to speak directly with our student recruitment team, who will be able to help answer your questions.

Live chats

Join a live chat with our staff and students, who are here to answer your questions and help you learn more about postgraduate life at Warwick. You can join our general drop-in sessions or talk to your prospective department and student services.

Warwick Talk and Tours

A Warwick talk and tour lasts around two hours and consists of an overview presentation from one of our Recruitment Officers covering the key features, facilities and activities that make Warwick a leading institution. The talk is followed by a campus tour which is the perfect way to view campus, with a current student guiding you around the key areas on campus.