Learning
- Doctoral skills online
- Doctoral skills workshop
- Research project
- Supervisory team
Research in the Department of Chemistry spans all sub-disciplines, from theoretical physical chemistry to biological chemistry and antibody engineering.
There are five research themes:
Find out how to apply to study within our Centre for Sustainable Chemical Technologies
The department also works in collaboration with the following Centres for Doctoral training (CDTs):
Programme structure
Most students complete this programme in 4 years. You cannot take less than 2 years to finish your research and the maximum time you are allowed is normally 4 years.
You may start this programme at any time. Most students start in September.
Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
Your academic progress and general welfare will be monitored by your supervisor.
Academic milestones
- Registration
- Induction
- Candidature
- Confirmation
- Research
- Writing up
- Give notice of intention to submit a thesis / portfolio
- Submission for examination
- Examination (Viva Voce)
- Examiners report
- Final submission of thesis / portfolio
- Graduation
Programme content
Research content
Postgraduate students are offered a variety of practical training courses which include the full use of the analytical instrumentation and services available and are encouraged to attend our seminars and to attend international scientific meetings relevant to their research area.
We offer programmes leading to a PhD degree in four classical divisions of chemistry: inorganic, organic, physical and computational. While students will be formally associated with one of these divisions, the research carried out in our Department is interdisciplinary.
The current focus areas are: Catalysis and Synthesis, Energy, Environment and Health, Materials, and Sustainability. Each focus group is composed of members of staff that approach these topics from very different points of view, thus allowing our students to understand fully the context of their research.
Professional Development
Professional development is a crucial element of doctoral study, not only in supporting your research but also as part of your longer term career development. Our DoctoralSkills workshops and courses will help you build your skills and help you succeed in your doctorate.
Assessment
Assessment methods
- Thesis
- Viva Voce
Assessment description
Most research students who ‘do a PhD’ register in the first instance as probationer for the degree of PhD. Candidates are expected to carry out supervised research at the leading edge of their chosen subject, which must then be written up as a substantial thesis; this can be written in both traditional as well as alternative (by publication) style.
The confirmation of the PhD programme (and the end of the probationary period) is subject to students passing an assessment process, which normally involves submission of written work and on oral examination which usually takes place 12 months after the initial registration.
The final stage of the PhD degree is the oral or viva voce examination, in which students are required to defend the thesis to a Board of Examiners.
Case studies
Find out more about recent PhD students at Bath.
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
First or upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent in an appropriate subject
English Language requirements
- IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
- The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
- TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components
You will need to get your English language qualification within 24 months prior to starting your course.
If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.
References
Two references are required. At least one of these should be an academic reference from the most recent place of study.
Fees and funding
Fees and funding information for Chemistry PhD
Fees
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on whether you are a Home or Overseas student.
Learn how we decide fee status
Tuition fees are liable to increase annually for all University of Bath students. If you aren't paying your fees in British pounds, you should also budget for possible fluctuations in your own currency.
How to pay
Funding options
Find funding for doctoral research
Payment options
You can pay your tuition fees by Direct Debit, debit card, credit card or bank transfer.
Application information
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Programme titleChemistry PhD
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Final awardPhD
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Mode of studyFull-time
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Course codeRSCH-AFM02
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Department
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LocationUniversity of Bath
Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY -
Application deadline
3 months prior to the intended start date (for international applicants) or 2 months prior to the intended start date (for home applicants). For example, for an end of September start, the deadline is 30 June (international) and 31 July (home).
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Regulator
Applicant profile
See our guide about how to apply for doctoral study
Selection process
All candidates are interviewed by two members of academic staff - one of whom is normally the prospective lead supervisor. The interview could be carried out remotely using Skype / Teams / Zoom, or alternatively could be done in person at the University of Bath, if appropriate.
Immigration requirements
This PhD is covered by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS). If you are an international student, you may require an ATAS certificate to join this course and you can find out more about the visa requirements for studying in the UK.
For additional support please contact the Student Immigration Service for matters related to student visas and immigration.
Programme enquiries
Doctoral Admissions
Apply for this programme
Apply now