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School of Chemical Sciences

Frequently Asked Questions

Undergraduate Applicants

1. What undergraduate degrees are offered by the School?

  • BSc in Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • BSc in Analytical Science
  • BSc in Environmental Science and Technology
  • BSc in Chemistry with Artificial Intelligence

2. I want to study chemistry — are these the right degrees for me? Absolutely. All four of our degrees are accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry and grounded in rigorous chemical science- you will study the same core chemistry as you would anywhere else in Ireland or the UK. What makes our degrees different is that this strong chemical foundation is applied to real-world problems from day one. Whether that's pharmaceutical development, environmental monitoring, data analysis, or diagnostics, you graduate as a fully qualified chemist with hands-on industry experience. Our degrees are recognised by employers and academic institutions worldwide, and our graduates go on to both industry roles and postgraduate research with equal success.

3. What is the Chemistry with AI degree — do I need to be good at coding? No prior coding experience is required. The Chemistry with AI degree is designed for students who are curious about how data science and artificial intelligence are transforming modern chemistry. You will develop programming skills as part of the programme, starting from the basics. By graduation, you will be able to apply AI tools to real chemical problems — a skillset that is increasingly sought after by employers in pharma, environmental science, and beyond.

4. Is the INTRA placement guaranteed? All students have the opportunity to apply for a six-month INTRA placement in third year. The School actively supports students in securing placements with industry partners, research institutions, and government agencies. Previous students have completed placements at companies including Pfizer and Eli Lilly.

Placements are competitive and subject to availability. Students who do not secure a placement take an alternative module that includes industry field trips and workshops, ensuring all students gain real-world exposure to chemistry in practice.

5. Do I need to have studied Chemistry for the Leaving Cert? No. Our programmes are designed to bring all students to the same level in first year, so you do not need a Leaving Cert in Chemistry to thrive. If you have studied Chemistry, you will find first year builds confidently on what you already know. Either way, curiosity and a genuine interest in science are what matter most.

6. What does a typical week look like? Most weeks combine lectures, laboratory sessions, and tutorials. Labs are a central part of all our programmes — you will spend significant time developing hands-on practical skills alongside your theoretical studies. The exact mix varies by year and programme, but from first year you can expect to be in the lab regularly. Our students often describe the lab work as one of the highlights of their degree.

7. What are the entry requirements? Entry requirements are set by the CAO and typically include strong Leaving Certificate grades in Chemistry and Mathematics. Check the DCU Undergraduate Prospectus for current CAO points and subject criteria.

8. Not sure which degree to choose? No problem. Our Chemical Sciences General Entry enables entry into a common first year, giving you exposure to chemistry, biology, physics, and computing before specialising into Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Analytical Science or Chemistry with AI. Currently, Environmental Science and Technology is primarily available through the direct entry route.

9. Can I switch programmes after Year 1? Yes. Students may transfer between chemistry-related degrees after first year, subject to academic performance and availability.

10. What career options are available after graduation? Our graduates work in pharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing, environmental protection, healthcare, R&D, and government agencies, or go on to further study such as an MSc, PhD, or teacher training.

11. What are the labs and facilities like? The School has modern, well-equipped teaching and research laboratories across DCU's Glasnevin campus. Facilities include state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation used in both teaching and live research projects. You will have hands-on access to equipment from your first year. You can find out more on our Technologies & Facilities page.

12. Are study-abroad options available? Yes, we support international exchanges through Erasmus+ and global partnerships, enabling you to gain overseas study or research experience. Students should discuss this with their Programme Chair.

13. What's the gender balance like in the School? All of our programmes maintain an approximately 50:50 ratio of female to male academics and technical staff, ensuring a balanced and supportive academic environment.

14. How is academic support structured? DCU offers academic advisors, peer mentoring, tutorials, the Maths Learning Centre, and well-being supports. The School also runs its own workshops and tutorials.

15. Is there an interview for undergrad entry? No, undergraduate entry via CAO does not require an interview. Applicants from alternative entry routes such as mature students may be invited to meet with our Programme Chairs.

16. Where is DCU and how do I get there? DCU's main campus is in Glasnevin, approximately 5km from Dublin city centre. It is well served by Dublin Bus, and the campus is a short walk or cycle from several residential areas. On-campus accommodation is also available. Full travel and directions information is available on the DCU website.

Postgraduate Applicants

17. Do you offer taught or research postgraduate degrees? We offer research postgraduate degrees: MSc by Research and PhD.

18. What research areas are covered? Key specialisms include sustainable chemistry, nanoscience, environmental sensing, biomaterials, diagnostics, drug development, polymer science, and surface chemistry.

19. How do I find a supervisor? Visit our Research page to explore academic profiles, then contact potential supervisors directly to discuss project ideas and funding.

20. Is funding available? Yes — many students are supported by grants from SFI, IRC, Horizon Europe, and other funders. Vacancies are advertised via DCU Jobs, FindAPhD, and academic networks.

21. How should I apply? Apply through the DCU Student Application Portal and contact the School's Research Convenor or a potential supervisor beforehand for advice.

22. What should I include in my personal statement? Focus on your academic background, motivation for research, relevant skills or experience, and how your interests align with the School's projects and staff expertise.

23. What postgraduate training is included? All PhD candidates benefit from training in communication, project management, ethics, and innovation, alongside independent research.

24. What's the application timeline? Applications are accepted year-round, but it is best to start discussions 6–9 months before your intended start date to secure supervision and funding.