Master of Science in Chemistry

Overview

Chemistry underpins much of modern life — from new materials and everyday products to the chemical processes that sustain living systems and shape the non-living world. This Master’s programme builds on that foundation by training students to translate observations from nature into research and development, addressing societally important challenges such as energy production, conversion and storage, and contributing to sustainable technological progress.

The course is research-oriented and equips students with advanced scientific methods, subject-specific depth across chemistry sub-disciplines, and transferable skills relevant for careers in academia, industry and applied research. Instruction is delivered in English, and the programme allows considerable flexibility so you can tailor your studies to your interests.

Students can combine core study with elective modules and may obtain an additional certificate by selecting up to two focused thematic profiles, enabling targeted specialization alongside a broad chemical education.

Programme requirements (study content and options)

• Core knowledge and skills you will acquire:

  • Chemical research and scientific working methods
  • Current challenges within the core and sub-disciplines of chemistry
  • Scientific and profession-qualifying competencies relevant to chemistry application areas

• Elective fields (choose courses from these areas):

  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Macromolecular Chemistry
  • Theoretical Chemistry
  • Energy Technology

• Optional certificate (select up to two thematic profiles to combine with your subject focus):

  • Chemistry of Energy Storage and Conversion
  • Sustainable, Green and Environmental Chemistry
  • Chemistry of Molecular Materials — Light–Matter Interaction
  • Chemistry of Healthcare and Biomaterials

Curriculum overview

The MSc curriculum covers multiple sub-disciplines of chemistry and combines classroom learning with active, research-focused laboratory training. Teaching formats include lectures for core theory, seminars for in-depth discussion and literature analysis, and practical, research-oriented lab courses that give hands-on experimental experience. Students build their individual study plan by choosing courses from the available offerings while following the constraints laid out in the programme’s study order and examination regulations.

The programme places strong emphasis on developing both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory competence. By working across different fields and participating in seminars and lab projects, students deepen subject-matter knowledge, learn to design and carry out experiments, and practise presenting and defending scientific results.

Key modules and learning outcomes

• Core and elective modules across the main chemical sub-disciplines, delivered through lectures and seminars.
• Research-oriented laboratory courses that develop experimental technique, data collection, and troubleshooting skills.
• Seminars aimed at critical reading of current literature and improvement of scientific communication.
• Learning outcomes include advanced theoretical knowledge in chosen chemistry fields, practical laboratory competence, independent research capability, critical evaluation of scientific evidence, and effective oral and written presentation of results.

Requirements (summary)

• Participation in lectures, seminars and research-oriented lab courses as defined by the programme.
• Individual course selection is permitted but must comply with the study order and examination regulations.
• Consult the programme’s study order and examination regulations (PDF) for the exact compulsory modules, credit requirements and assessment rules.

Graduates acquire advanced research skills and subject-specific competences that prepare them for roles in research and development, quality control, and process development within the chemical industry, energy and materials sectors, pharmaceuticals, and environmental technology. The programme’s emphasis on energy conversion and storage, sustainable chemistry and molecular materials is particularly relevant for employers focused on green technologies and energy solutions.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for academic careers and doctoral studies. Students aiming for research-intensive positions or a PhD will benefit from the programme’s lab-oriented training and opportunities to engage in specialised projects and collaborations with partners in industry and academia.