Chemistry, Physical Chemistry - Master Programme

Programme overview

The programme gives you broad and fundamental knowledge in physical and theoretical chemistry and chemical physics. You will develop your laboratory skills and obtain in-depth theoretical knowledge on fundamental, molecular mechanisms as well as a good understanding of practical applications within the environmental field, materials science and catalysis, for example. Special emphasis is placed on creating coherent understanding that stretches from a quantum mechanical description of atoms and molecules to complex supramolecular structures and their industrial and biological applications.

As a student you will obtain knowledge within thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, spectroscopy and surface and colloid chemistry. You will practice independently planning, conducting and critically evaluating experiments. 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 Master’s 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. During the first semester you will initially take a course on molecular driving forces and chemical bonding, followed by studies in advanced surface and colloid chemistry. In the next semester you will choose among courses on e.g. statistical thermodynamics and molecular simulation, molecular quantum mechanics, magnetic resonance and scattering methods. The spring semester concludes with a course on molecular spectroscopy. 

There are several options during the second academic year. The degree project can be worth 30, 45 or 60 credits and is conducted in a research group 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

Programme graduates are highly skilled in conducting research and development work within a wide variety of areas such as smart materials, photochemistry, food science and biomolecular design. The Master’s programme provides a good foundation for both doctoral studies and a career at research-intensive companies. Half of our Master’s students continue to doctoral studies, and half begin working in industry in Sweden or abroad.