Chemistry
Learn about the structure, properties and reactivity of molecules. This fundamental knowledge plays an integral role in our understanding of the world.
| Award Name | Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 4 years
Full time – 2 years
Time limit – 12 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you’ll need to succeed. If you’re not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
Answer a few quick questions to check whether you’re ready for study success
https://www.open.ac.uk/courses/do-it/ready-for-success
Stage 1 includes a compulsory module, Questions in science (S111) – check you’re ready to study this module.
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
Chemistry graduates are well placed to enter both scientific and non-scientific jobs. The logical, reasoned approach needed for science study is relevant to a wide range of financial, business and public sector employment, so graduates – particularly those who have good communication and interpersonal skills – are in demand.
Growth areas are predicted to be: environment, energy and sustainability; biotechnology and biomedical engineering; healthcare; telecommunications; pharmaceuticals; bioinformatics; and technology transfer (transfer of scientific expertise to commercial products).
Employers include central and local government, the NHS, the water industry, food and drink companies, media and communications, the horticultural industry, multinational oil companies, the pharmaceutical industry, conservation bodies and universities – in roles such as:
• research and investigation
• product design and development
• analysis and diagnostics
• science information management
• science communication
• scientific sales
• exploration and extraction of natural resources
• health and healthcare related professions
• waste management, recycling and sustainability
• environmental management, protection and conservation
• teaching (science is a shortage subject at secondary school level, so there may be incentives to train as a chemistry teacher).
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025: Registration closes 09/01/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
Diploma of Higher Education in Chemistry
Learn about the structure, properties and reactivity of molecules. This fundamental knowledge plays an integral role in our understanding of the world. Chemistry is a broad subject – including organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry and analytical chemistry. And can include other fields such as biological chemistry and environmental chemistry. Online and remote experiments and a compulsory 2.5-day laboratory-based school at our Milton Keynes campus will build your investigative and practical skills.
This diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
• In Stage 1, you’ll study two 60-credit modules.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study one 60-credit and two 30-credit modules and attend a compulsory 2.5-day laboratory school.
Key features of the course
• Study the classical chemistry disciplines, plus analytical, biological and environmental chemistry
• Develop investigative and laboratory skills using our state-of-the-art multi-award-winning OpenSTEM Labs
• Practice hands on skills at laboratory schools, and meet other OU chemistry students
This Diploma of Higher Education is the same as Stages 1 and 2 of our BSc (Honours) Chemistry (R59)
Stage 1 (120 credits)
You’ll study two 60-credit modules.
You'll study both of the following:
• Questions in science (S111) 60 credits
• Science: concepts and practice (S112) 60 credits
Stage 2 (120 credits)
You’ll study one 60-credit and two 30-credit modules and attend a laboratory school.
You'll study all three of the following:
• Concepts in chemistry (S218) 60 credits
• Investigative approaches in biology and chemistry (S285) 30 credits
• Chemistry in life: food, water and medicines (S248) 30 credits
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.