Chemistry, Synthetic and Analytical Chemistry - Master Programme

Programme overview

The Master’s programme provides both theoretical and practical knowledge in analytical, organic, organometallic and coordination chemistry. Some of the areas covered include drug production, food, environmental issues and nanotechnology. You will obtain specialised knowledge in advanced organic synthesis, learn about reaction mechanisms in organometallic compounds and the importance of metals in biological systems. You will obtain ample experience in different chromatography and mass spectrometry methods as well as in modern characterisation methods. The importance of green analytical chemistry for a sustainable society is also emphasised. 

As a student you will practice independently planning, conducting and critically evaluating interdisciplinary research projects from a chemical perspective. You will also learn to use scientific literature as well as manage and analyse data in various forms. Teaching takes place on modern premises and in laboratories with advanced equipment. The format of the programme varies and includes lectures, seminars, group exercises, extensive laboratory work, calculation exercises, computer exercises and project work, including oral and written presentations.

The programme has strong ties with research. All of the teaching staff are researchers, and the course content is continuously adapted based on current research. The Department of Chemistry is characterised by a broad spectrum of basic research and applied research, as well as close contact with industry and external research centres. Lund is also home to two unique research facilities – the MAX IV Laboratory and the ESS (European Spallation Source) neutron source, the latter of which is currently being constructed. The facilities offer applications in many areas of chemistry. The language of instruction is English in the Master’s programme.

Programme structure

You can influence and plan your study design to a large extent. You will begin the first semester with a course on molecular driving forces and chemical bonding. The recommendation for the next course is advanced analytical chemistry. During the spring semester courses on advanced organic chemistry, organometallic chemistry and coordination chemistry will follow.

In the second academic year you can take more courses depending on the scope of your degree project. The degree project can be worth 30, 45 or 60 credits and is conducted in a research team or at a company. If you decide to do a degree project worth less than the maximum number of credits, you can do a second project. The Master’s programme offers the option of doing an internship, which can provide valuable professional contacts during the programme.

Career prospects

The Master’s programme provides you with general and subject-specific skills that prepare you for a career in the chemical industry, other related industries and the public sector, or you can continue to doctoral studies. Typical employment in industry includes working as a research and development engineer at an innovative start-up or as a synthetic organic chemist at a large pharmaceutical company, for example. Employers have been full of praise for our graduates’ laboratory skills.