Key information
- Duration:
- 1 year full time
- Start date:
- September 2024
- Apply by:
- 1 August 2024 (international), 1 September 2024 (UK)

- 8th in the UK for our research impact in Chemistry in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education)
Antibiotic resistance, ageing populations and possible future pandemics – medicinal chemists are working on solutions to the major global challenges of our time.
If you’re curious about the drug discovery process and want to learn from industry experts, this is the course for you. On your MSc, you’ll:
- learn about drug design and organic synthesis
- develop the practical laboratory skills necessary to work in medicinal chemistry
- gain hands-on experience in analysis and data interpretation
- explore the importance of patent law in protecting novel approaches and developments
- learn from industry leaders with experience ranging from start-up companies to big pharma.
At Sussex, you’ll learn from chemists whose world-leading research informs their teaching. We have strong links with the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre. In our high-spec laboratories, you’ll get to use the latest research equipment. This includes NMR spectrometers and x-ray crystallography diffractometers. As part of your research project, you’ll work closely with one of our research groups.
On graduation, you’ll be ready to work in an agile and fast-paced medicinal chemistry environment. You’ll have the knowledge and skills, as well as a network of contacts for your future career.
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
Masters Online Open Day
Join us online on Saturday, 25 November 2023 to find out about the essentials of Masters study
Entry requirements
Degree requirements | You should normally have a lower second-class (2.2) undergraduate honours degree or above. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please select your country from the list.
Argentina
Degree requirements | Licenciado/Titulo with a minimum final mark of at least 6.0-7.0 depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Australia
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Azerbaijan
Degree requirements | Magistr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4 or 81% |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bahrain
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 2.5/4.0 (Grade C+). |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bangladesh
Degree requirements | A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.2/4.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brazil
Degree requirements | Bacharel, Licenciado or professional title with a minimum final mark of at least 7. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Brunei
Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second class lower division or CGPA 2.7/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Canada
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 (grade B). |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Chile
Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 4.5-5.0/7 depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 70% - 80% depending on your university. Sussex uses the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities to determine offer levels. See: www.shanghairanking.com/rankings/2021 As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Colombia
Degree requirements | Licenciado with ‘Acreditacion de alta calidad’ and a minimum CGPA of 3.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree or Ptychion with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 7 (Fair Performance). |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ecuador
Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 15/20. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Egypt
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from a university with a minimum overall grade of at least 70%. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
Degree requirements | Licence with mention assez bien or Maîtrise with a minimum final mark of at least 12. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Germany
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree or Magister Artium with a minimum final mark of 2.7 or better. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ghana
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from a public university with a minimum second-class lower division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
Degree requirements | Ptychion from an AEI with a minimum final mark of at least 6.5. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 50-65% depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Indonesia
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree from an 'A' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 2.8/4.0. Bachelors degree from a 'B' accredited university with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree (Licence or Karshenasi) with a minimum final mark of at least 14. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Italy
Degree requirements | Diploma di Laurea with a minimum overall mark of at least 101. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum C/GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or equivalent. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Jordan
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or 75%. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kazakhstan
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of 3.75 or better (on a scale of 1-5)/CGPA 2,67. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kenya
Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Kuwait
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or B. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Lebanon
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 or 13/20. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malawi
Degree requirements | Masters degree, depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Malaysia
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.7/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Mexico
Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nepal
Degree requirements | A 4-year Bachelor degree with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Nigeria
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CGPA of at least 2.5/5.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall grade of C. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Oman
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
Degree requirements | Four-year bachelors degree with a minimum overall grade of 60% or Masters with a minimum 55%. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Palestine
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum of at least 70% or CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Paraguay
Degree requirements | Bachelors with a minimum final mark of at least 7/10. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Peru
Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 12/20 from a public university or 14/20 from a private university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Philippines
Degree requirements | Masters degree with a minimum of 1.75/5.0 (where 1 is the highest) or 3.5/4.0 |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Qatar
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall CPGA of at least 2.8 (on a scale of 4). |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
Degree requirements | Bakalavr or Specialist Diploma with a minimum average mark of at least 4. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Saudi Arabia
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/5.0 or 2.8/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division or CAP 3.5. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
Degree requirements | Bachelors (honours) degree with a minimum second-class division 2. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Korea
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.5 or 2.8/4.3 or B. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
Degree requirements | Licenciado with a minimum final mark of at least 2/4 or 6/10. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
Degree requirements | Bachelors Special degree with a minimum lower second honours. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
Degree requirements | Licence or Diplôme with a minimum 4.5/6 or 7/10. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Taiwan
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-75% depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Thailand
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.5 -2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
Degree requirements | Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.6 - 2.8/4.0 or equivalent depending on your university. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
United Arab Emirates
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 2.8/4.0 or equivalent. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
USA
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Vietnam
Degree requirements | Bachelors degree (with a Graduate Thesis/research component) with a minimum CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 7.0/10. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both proof of graduation in addition to your transcript. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zambia
Degree requirements | Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 2.0/2.5 or equivalent. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Zimbabwe
Degree requirements | Bachelors (Honours) degree with a minimum second-class lower division. |
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Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us
Subject-specific requirements | Your qualification should be in chemistry. Other closely related subjects such as biochemistry or biomedical science will also be considered. You may also be considered for the course if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing. |
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English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
High level (6.5 overall, including at least 6.0 in each component).
Check your IELTS qualification meets all of our language requirements and find out more about IELTS
Alternative English language qualifications
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
176 overall, including at least 169 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
176 overall, including at least 169 in each skill.
We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency
Duolingo English test
130 overall, with no component score below 115.
Check your Duolingo English test qualification meets all of our language requirements and find out more information about Duolingo English test
Pearson (PTE Academic)
62 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills.
Check your Pearson (PTE Academic) qualification meets all of our language requirements and find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)
TOEFL (iBT)
88 overall, including at least 20 in Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking, 23 in Writing.
Check your TOEFL (iBT) qualification meets all of our language requirements and find out more about TOEFL (iBT)
The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.
English language qualifications
AS/A-level (GCE)
Grade C or above in English Language.
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.
GCE O-level
Grade C or above in English.
Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
GCSE or IGCSE
Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).
Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.
Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate
If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.
If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.
Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)
The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%
Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70%
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
English A or English B at grade 5 or above.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Grades A - C in English language
Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level
If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.
If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.
The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).
West African Senior School Certificate
Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.
List of exempt countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
English language support
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course
Visas and immigration
Find out how to apply for a student visa
Admissions information for applicants
How to apply | You apply to Sussex using our postgraduate application system
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Personal statement | Yes. You must submit a personal statement as part of your application. |
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.
Application deadlines
1 August 2024 (international), 1 September 2024 (UK)
We strongly recommend an earlier application where possible, as some courses are in high demand and may close before the above dates. Find out more at How to apply for a Masters course
Course content
Your degree
On your MSc, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to start your career in the pharmaceutical industry as a drug discovery chemist. Your modules cover the theory and practice of drug discovery. And you’ll have the opportunity to spend the spring and summer terms in our drug discovery research laboratories working on your research project. This will give you hands-on experience in synthesising, characterising and discovering new molecules of medicinal chemistry interest.
Teaching
On your MSc, you’ll typically learn in:
- lectures, where you’ll develop your knowledge of the theory of drug discovery
- small-class workshops, where you’ll work independently and in teams to solve unseen problems
- laboratories, where you’ll gain hands-on experience of life as a practising chemist in drug discovery
- seminars, with external speakers in person and also online, which helps you get familiar with new ways of attending conferences.
30%: Lecture
70%: Practical
Assessment
Assessment typically includes:
- completion of a portfolio
- examinations
- short written reports
- presentations and coursework problem sheets
- multiple-choice questions and quizzes.
You’ll also work on and deliver presentations. Your final thesis will describe the work completed during your Drug Discovery Research Project.
29%: Examination
28%: Practical
43%: Written assessment
Contact hours and workload
Your Masters year includes approximately 1,800 hours of work. This breaks down into about 180 hours of contact time in lectures, workshops and seminars; about 650 hours in the laboratory and about 970 hours of independent study.
Engage and actively participate throughout your studies to get the most out of your course.
Your modules
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most. Each core module on this degree is 15 credits and the research project is 90 credits. You’ll need 180 credits to gain your Masters award.
Autumn teaching
- Advanced Drug Discovery and Chemical Enterprise
- Advanced Green Chemistry and Organic Synthesis
- Principles and Practices in Drug Discovery and Delivery
- Transferable Skills and Employability
Spring teaching
- Catalysis in Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry for Medicines and Natural Products
Spring and summer teaching
- Drug Discovery Research Project
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
Check back in January 2024 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2024/25.
Our experts
You’ll be taught by experts in their field, with strong links to the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre.
On your course, you’ll get to interact with external guest speakers from multinational and start-up companies. This diverse range of drug discovery professionals will help you build a substantial network of contacts – ideal to help you launch your career when you graduate.


Prof John Spencer
Professor of Bioorganic Chemistry/Director of Sussex Drug Discovery Centre
Fees and scholarships
How much does it cost?
Fees
- Home students:
- £11,950 per year for full-time students
- Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
- £11,950 per year for full-time students
- International students:
- £25,000 per year for full-time students
If you’re a self-funded international student, you’re required to pay a tuition fee deposit. Find out more about Masters tuition fee deposits
Living costs
Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex
Find out about our terms and conditions
How can I fund my course?
Scholarships
Our goal is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to regardless of financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique people.
Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2024/25.
Working while you study
Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work
Careers
In the School of Life Sciences, we offer a range of careers support. On your course, you’ll gain skills and experience in:
- academic literature analysis
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accuracy and attention to detail in laboratory protocols and techniques
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data collection, curation and analysis
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entrepreneurship
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presentation of findings
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problem-solving
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team working
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writing laboratory reports.
When you graduate, you’ll have the knowledge and practical laboratory skills to start your career in medicinal chemistry, working for pharmaceutical companies. You’ll also be equipped to explore other areas such as:
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further research (PhD)
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healthcare
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medical writing
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patent law
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teaching.