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From the moment you are born, and throughout your life, you are surrounded by chemistry; the air you breathe, the food you eat and the clothes you wear – they’re all chemistry.It’s the scientific study of substances: what they are made of, how they interact with each otherand their role in the world.This is a challenging A Level, very highly regarded by universities and employers alike. Chemistry is a practical subject where you’ll develop key transferable skills through carrying out experiments, recording your discoveries and solving problems, often applying Mathematics.You will learn about:• The fundamentals of chemistry• The periodic table and energy• Organic chemistry and analysis• Physical chemistry and transition elementsChemistry is taught in well-equipped, modern science labs.
Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language. You will also need a grade 6 or above in Mathematics and two Sciences.
On this course you will study:Year 1:Foundations of Chemistry: This module builds on GCSE Science and includes basic ideas about the structure of atoms and molecules. There is a significant focus on developing your numerical skills and confidence in tackling mole calculations. You will also develop your understanding of electronic structure and the three-dimensional shapes of molecules.Periodic table and energy: You will study the chemistry of the halogens and group 2 metals in depth, alongside an overview of trends in chemical behaviour across the periodic table. You will learn how to identify substances through simple qualitative tests. Fundamental ideas in Physical Chemistry such as enthalpy change and chemical equilibria are introduced.Core organic: Basic concepts such as bonding and systematic naming are covered. The chemistry of alcohols and haloalkanes introduces a systematic study of functional groups. Organic synthesis and instrumental techniques for analysis complete the first year of study.Year 2:Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements:This includes a mathematical treatment of reaction rates and chemical energetics. The study of redox reactions includes more complex mole calculations, an introduction to electrode potentials and the construction of fuel cells. A study of the chemistry of the transition metals completes this module.Organic Chemistry and Analysis: Covers the chemistry of benzene and organic nitrogen compounds, the structure and function of polymers and further organic synthesis. Analytical techniques include chromatography and NMR. Practical skills are developed throughout the two years. You will be able to synthesise and analyse organic products such as aspirin.
All of our lecturers are leading subject and industry professionals. Chemistry is taught in well-equipped, modern science labs. Lecturers will explain chemical principles; you will carry out problem solving activities which often involve application of mathematical techniques. Experimental work forms a vital component of the course and you will be assessed on your practical skills. You must be prepared to commit a lot of key facts and formulae to memory.
The course is assessed through three examinations at the end of the second year. Experimental work forms a vital component of the course and your practical skills will be evaluated for the Practical Endorsement. You will keep a lab book throughout the two years to provide evidence for this.
Chemistry is an A Level subject accepted by universities for a whole range of degrees. In the past, our students have progressed to degrees within the health sciences such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, Midwifery, Occupational Therapy, Radiography, Optometry, Paramedic Science, Biomedical Sciences, Forensic Science, Neuroscience, Pharmacy and Pharmacology.