Open University

BSc (Honours) in Chemistry

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this qualification, you’ll have knowledge and understanding of:

• The fundamental concepts, principles, theories, methods and language used in the main branches of chemistry, as well as a basic understanding of its role as the central science across a wider range of scientific disciplines
• The contribution of chemistry to informed debate, and the ability to recognise and evaluate different lines of evidence and appreciate the limits of current scientific knowledge
• At least one selected area of chemistry is at the forefront of the discipline, informed by literature and independent research.

Cognitive skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

• Select and apply conceptual knowledge and understanding of chemistry to devise and implement strategies, develop and present reasoned arguments, and solve problems in familiar and unfamiliar contexts
• Identify, interpret, analyse and critically evaluate chemical information and data from a range of different sources
• Apply the methods and techniques you have learned to review, consolidate and extend your knowledge and understanding of chemistry.

Practical and professional skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

• conduct practical investigations in a responsible, safe and ethical manner taking proper account of risk assessment and health and safety regulations
• initiate, design and report on investigations that may involve the acquisition of primary or secondary data
• obtain, record, collate and analyse data derived from practical investigations and interpret and report results on their significance in the light of underlying theory, practical issues and relevant information from other sources
• take personal responsibility to identify goals and organise your tasks effectively, recognising the necessity for continuing development personally, professionally and in your studies.

Key skills

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to:

• Use a range of digital practices and tools to retrieve, use, create, analyse, share and present data, information and knowledge
• Select and apply appropriate quantitative methods and tools, appreciating the limits of accuracy and precision in chemical and analytical measurements
• Communicate chemical information, data, arguments and ideas accurately and effectively in a style that suits the purpose and audience
• Work autonomously and interact effectively with others to explore aspects of chemistry, enhance your learning and performance and achieve joint outcomes.

This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• You’ll start Stage 1 with a 60-credit introductory science module, then continue with another 60-credit science module.
• At Stage 2, you’ll study one 60-credit module and two 30-credit modules. Plus attend a lab school.
• At Stage 3, you’ll study a 60-credit module and a 30-credit module, plus attend a lab school. You’ll complete your degree with a 30-credit project module.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

You'll study both of the following:

• Questions in science (S111)
• Science: concepts and practice (S112)

Stage 2 (120 credits)

You'll study all three of the following:

• Chemistry in life: food, water and medicines (S248)
• Concepts in chemistry (S218)
• Investigative approaches in biology and chemistry (S285)

Stage 3 (120 credits)

You'll study all three of the following:

• Chemistry: further concepts and applications (S315)
• Evaluating contemporary science (S350)
• Science project module: chemistry (SXC390)

Assessment

Our assessments are all designed to reinforce your learning and help you show your understanding of the topics. The mix of assessment methods will vary between modules.

Computer-Marked Assignments

• Usually, a series of online, multiple-choice questions.

Tutor-Marked Assignments

• You’ll have a number of these throughout each module, each with a submission deadline.
• They can be made up of essays, questions, experiments or something else to test your understanding of what you have learned.
• Your tutor will mark and return them to you with detailed feedback.

End-of-Module Assessments

• The final, marked piece of work on most modules.
• Modules with an end-of-module assessment won’t usually have an exam.

Exams

• Some modules end with an exam. You’ll be given time to revise and prepare.
• You’ll be given your exam date at least 5 months in advance.
• Most exams take place remotely, and you will complete them at home or an alternative location.
• If a module requires you to take a face-to-face exam, this will be made clear in the module description, and you will be required to take your exam in person at one of our exam centres.

Skills for career development

By the time you achieve your qualification, you’ll be an adaptable graduate with a range of transferable skills that are highly valued in the labour market – such as analytical, numerical and communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving and proficiency in using computers. You’ll also have a good understanding of where your strengths and interests lie, and be well prepared for your next step – whether it’s further study or employment.

Employers also look for evidence of experience in the workplace to support the skills gained through the degree. To succeed, graduates will need to be flexible and multi-skilled, with the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment.

Career relevance

Chemistry graduates are well-placed to enter both scientific and non-scientific jobs. The logical, reasoned approach needed for science study is relevant to a wide range of financial, business and public sector employment, so graduates – particularly those who have good communication and interpersonal skills – are in demand.

Growth areas are predicted to be: environment, energy and sustainability; biotechnology and biomedical engineering; healthcare; telecommunications; pharmaceuticals; bioinformatics; and technology transfer (transfer of scientific expertise to commercial products).

Employers include central and local government, the NHS, the water industry, food and drink companies, media and communications, the horticultural industry, multinational oil companies, the pharmaceutical industry, conservation bodies and universities – in roles such as:

• Research and investigation
• Product design and development
• Analysis and diagnostics
• Science information management
• Science communication
• Scientific sales
• Exploration and extraction of natural resources
• Health and healthcare-related professions
• Waste management, recycling and sustainability
• Environmental management, protection and conservation
• Teaching (science is a shortage subject at the secondary school level, so there may be incentives to train as a chemistry teacher).

With our unique approach to distance learning, you can study from home, work or on the move.

You’ll have some assessment deadlines to meet, but otherwise, you’ll be free to study at the times that suit you, fitting your learning around work, family, and social life.

For each of your modules, you’ll use either just online resources or a mix of online and printed materials.

Each module you study will have a module website with

• A week-by-week study planner, giving you a step-by-step guide through your studies
• Course materials such as reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
• Module forums for discussions and collaborative activities with other students
• Details of each assignment and their due dates
• A tutorial booking system, online tutorial rooms, and your tutor’s contact details
• Online versions of some printed module materials and resources.