MSc in Chemistry

The MSc programme in Chemistry lets students specialise in their chosen area of interest while building strong foundational knowledge in the field. Students can construct their own unique programme with courses from various branches of chemistry such as organic, biophysical, materials, atmospheric, inorganic, theoretical/computational, and physical chemistry. Courses and research opportunities are constantly reviewed, not only to make sure they reflect the needs and demands of business and industry, research institutions, and the public sector, but also to contribute to solving societal challenges. The MSc programme is challenging, yet highly rewarding. 

LEARNING FROM LEADERS IN THE FIELD 

Course content is heavily influenced by the research currently being conducted at Aarhus University, as all lecturers are also active researchers. Students are expected to take part in fundamental research projects with the department’s research groups, and there may also be opportunities to work with private companies or public institutions during their studies. Students will be able to specialise within one of the areas of chemistry in which Aarhus University is particularly strong: synthesis and analysis of new organic substances; nuclear magnetic resonance studies;  laser spectroscopy and biophysics; computer simulations in chemistry and biophysics; synchrotron X-ray methods; atmospheric chemistry; and materials – synthesis, structure, properties, and new materials. Interdisciplinary research themes include life chemistry, functional materials and energy, and environment and climate. Students in the programme have access to high-quality laboratory equipment and tools that will allow them to engage in hands-on learning at the cutting edge of science. 

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE 

Students in the MSc Chemistry programme participate in courses during the first year and then complete their studies with a second year of independent research undertaken within a research group, concluding with the production of a thesis. The research project and thesis are supervised by a researcher in the department and may be carried out in collaboration with an external partner. 

STUDENT LIFE 

The Department of Chemistry has an active student environment, with both academic and social activities arranged by our student organisations. During your time as a master’s student you will be working closely with team members in one of the research groups, as well as participating in the academic and social events of the group. 

CAREERS 

There are more chemistry openings in Denmark than there are domestic graduates to fill them, making unemployment very low for graduates in chemistry. Graduates from the MSc Chemistry programme typically find work in research, development, teaching, communication, or consulting in both public and private sectors. Aarhus University alumni have found interesting careers with a broad range of companies including Haldor Topsøe, Novo Nordisk, Eurofins, DuPont, Arla, Novonesis, Vestas, and LEGO.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 

Students must have a bachelor’s degree amounting to at least 60 ECTS credits in Chemistry. Other qualifications can also provide admission to the Master’s programme, subject to the university’s assessment that their level, extent, and content correspond to the degrees mentioned above.

SELECTION CRITERIA 

As the Master’s programme admits only a limited number of students each year, meeting the admission requirements does not in itself guarantee admission to the programme. Student places are allocated on the basis of an overall assessment. In evaluating qualified applicants, the admissions committee assesses applicants according to the following criteria: academic background; overall grade level of bachelor’s degree; grades achieved on relevant courses; and relevant courses (measured in credit units) included in the bachelor’s degree. 

Relevant courses include core courses within the subject areas of chemistry, mathematics, physics, and statistics.