Applications for September 2026 are open now. Further information about UCL graduate programmes can be found on the UCL Graduate degrees page.
The chemical sciences and industrial chemicals sector make significant contributions to the prosperity of society worldwide by developing new products such as pharmaceuticals and materials, including polymers, as well as new technologies. Many goods we buy in everyday life are also reliant on the chemicals industry. However, pollution arising from persistent organic pollutants, plastics and greenhouse gasses release is a major issue associated with chemical industries. Synthesised chemicals are everywhere and can enter the environment through industrial processes or via the consumer and waste disposal. For these reasons we need to tackle sustainable chemicals production, use and disposal. To achieve this, as well as new innovations and regulations, education in chemical sustainability is essential to drive the changes needed.
Degree Structure:
The programme provides an outstanding multidisciplinary training in chemical/biological molecular assembly using methods that have low-environmental impact, use innovative sustainable resources and are energy efficient. A core compulsory taught course will be delivered on chemical/biological sustainable synthesis incorporating the principles of green chemistry, catalysis and renewable resources as well as applications of biocatalysis and synthetic biology together with industrial processes and bioprocesses. This will be accompanied by a core practical research skills course covering chemical techniques and fundamental biosciences and biotechnology to prepare students for their interdisciplinary research projects. A further taught module will include selected chemical topics from existing MSc level chemistry courses such as biosynthesis of proteins and peptides, asymmetric synthesis and advanced catalysis.
Students will carry out a substantial research project on sustainable/green chemistry or chemical biology over a six-month period.
Delivery: MSc students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. Please read the UCL Prospectus for full course information.
Resources:
We offer an excellent education with high standards of teaching in an exciting but friendly environment. We foster a community feel to the department and you will mix throughout your time here with staff, undergraduate students and researchers.
UCL Scholarships: find the currently available Studentships with the Scholarships and funding tool.
Questions & Answers: There’s a lot you should ask and a lot for us to tell you in our FAQ section.
Postgraduate Taught Tutor
Dr Anna Roffey
Tel: 020 7679 5574
Email: anna.roffey@ucl.ac.uk
Programme Director
Dr Daniele Castagnolo
Email: d.castagnolo@ucl.ac.uk
Study Chemistry
Thinking about applying for the Sustainable Chemistry MSc but have a question to ask?
2nd in UK for Research REF2021
The department was ranked joint 1st in the UK for 1st for 4* and 3* submissions in the 2021 REF exercise for the world-class impact of its research, with 100% of papers submitted for assessment judged as world-leading or internationally excellent, demonstrating the strength of the department in all areas of Organic, Inorganic, Materials, Physical and Computational Chemistry.
UCL+
Register your interest in studying at UCL and receive important information about open days, applications, and more.