Drug Discovery, Design and Synthesis MSc : University of Sussex

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Key information

Duration:: 1 year full time
Start date:: September 2025
Apply by:: 1 August 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (UK)

Top 20 in the UK for Chemistry (Guardian University Guide 2025)
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.

Find out more about the course from Dr Barny Greenland in an episode of the podcast Future You.

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.

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Degree requirements	You should normally have a lower second-class (2.2) undergraduate honours degree or above.
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.
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.
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%
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+).
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
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.
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.
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).
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.
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 65%-70% depending on your university. Sussex uses Project 211/985 to inform offer levels. As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate.
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.

Degree requirements

Bachelors degree with a minimum overall mark of at least 65%-70% depending on your university. Sussex uses Project 211/985 to inform offer levels.

As evidence of completing your degree you must provide both a Degree Certificate and Graduation Certificate.

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.
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.
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).
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.
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%.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.

Subject-specific requirements

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.
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.
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.
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%.
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 3.5/5 or CGPA 3.0/4
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 2.8-2.99/4.0, 3.0-3.49/5.0, or 4.0-4.6/7.0.
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.
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.
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 an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university. Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university.
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.

Degree requirements

Four-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university.

Masters degree following a 3-year Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 60%-65% or CGPA 2.4 - 2.6 depending on your university.

Subject-specific requirements

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
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.
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.
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
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Uzbekistan

Degree requirements	Specialist Diploma with an average mark of at least 70%.
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.

Subject-specific requirements

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.
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.
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.

English language requirements

IELTS (Academic)

Standard level (6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component).

IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about IELTS

We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

We do not accept IELTS Online.

Check full details of our English Language requirements and find out more about some of the alternative English language qualifications listed below

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests

Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)

169 overall, including at least 162 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)

169 overall, including at least 162 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

LanguageCert Academic SELT

Standard level (65 overall, including at least 60 in each component).

LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.

We do not accept the online version. We also do not accept the non-SELT version.

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 36 in each component.

LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.

Pearson (PTE Academic)

Standard level (59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills).

PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)

We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

TOEFL (iBT)

Standard level (80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing).

TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)

We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

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

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
The British Overseas Territories
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 will be able to apply from November 2024.

Personal statement

Yes. You must submit a personal statement as part of your application.

Find out how to write a personal statement

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 2025 (international), 1 September 2025 (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

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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.

Autumn teaching

Spring teaching

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.

We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.

Check back in January 2025 for the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.

Video transcript
[Intro music: inspirational music plays, no vocals]

On screen text

Do you want to make a difference in the world through Life Sciences?

Join the University of Sussex

Study for a Masters at a world-leading research University where you could follow in the footsteps of our Nobel Prize winners and our Masters graduates who work in rewarding and impactful careers

Choose from postgraduate courses in:
- Cancer Cell Biology
- Animal Behaviour
- Drug Discovery, Design and Synthesis
- Conservation Biology
- Genetic Manipulation and Molecular Cell Biology
- Neuroscience
- Global Biodiversity Conservation
Take your skills, knowledge and experience to the next level

Our courses are research led, taught by world-leading experts

Our research influences policy, contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and improves the lives of people living with debilitating diseases

We are a diverse community with students and staff from across the world

Located within a UNESCO Living Coast Biosphere Reserve near the friendly city of Brighton & Hove

Where could Life Sciences at Sussex take you?

Find out more about the School of Life Sciences at sussex.ac.uk

[Music ends]

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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 Mark Bagley

Professor of Organic Chemistry

View profile of Mark Bagley

Dr Barnaby Greenland

Reader in Smart Organic Materials

View profile of Barnaby Greenland

Dr Haitham Hassan

Lecturer in Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Discovery

View profile of Haitham Hassan

Dr Storm Hassell-Hart

Lecturer in Chemistry

View profile of Storm Hassell-Hart

Dr Deborah Sneddon

Lecturer in Chemistry

View profile of Deborah Sneddon

Prof John Spencer

Professor of Bioorganic Chemistry/Director of Sussex Drug Discovery Centre

View profile of John Spencer

Dr Jon Wilden

Senior Lecturer in Chemistry

View profile of Jon Wilden

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Fees and scholarships

How much does it cost?

Fees

Home students:: £12,550 per year for full-time students
Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:: £12,550 per year for full-time students
International students:: £26,250 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.

Sussex Bangladesh Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Bangladesh

Find out more
Sussex Egypt Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Egypt

Find out more
Sussex India Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of India

Find out more
Sussex Nigeria Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Nigeria

Find out more
Sussex Pakistan Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Pakistan

Find out more
Sussex Turkey Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Turkey

Find out more
Sussex Vietnam Scholarship (Masters)

Unlimited £4,000 scholarships for applicants who are nationals of Vietnam

Find out more

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

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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
accuracy and attention to detail in laboratory protocols and techniques
data collection, curation and analysis
entrepreneurship
presentation of findings
problem-solving
team working
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:

further research (PhD)
healthcare
medical writing
patent law
teaching.

Design your future at Sussex

Taking the next step in your career can feel daunting, but we’ll help you to explore, connect and flourish throughout your studies and beyond.

As a Sussex student, you’ll learn how to tackle real-world challenges and have access to tailored programmes of careers support:

our Career Lab helps you to explore your options, build key skills and connect with employers. Take part in internships, community consultancy projects and insight visits, where you can learn about life at organisations including Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, Gatwick Airport and the Knepp Rewilding Project
one-to-one coaching with your Faculty Careers Consultant can enable you to identify your career goals, write an effective CV and prepare for future interviews
entrepreneurship initiatives like StartUp Sussex and Ideas Lab can empower you to turn your concepts into reality.

Explore how our Careers and Entrepreneurship team can support you

Winner
Supporting Student and Graduate Employability Award
AGCAS Awards for Excellence 2024

Winner
Entrepreneurship Catalyst Award
National Enterprise Educator Awards 2024

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Drug Discovery, Design and Synthesis MSc

Key information

Virtual Masters Open Day

Entry requirements

Argentina

Australia

Azerbaijan

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Brazil

Brunei

Canada

Chile

China

Colombia

Cyprus

Denmark

Ecuador

Egypt

France

Germany

Ghana

Greece

Hong Kong

India

Indonesia

Iran

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Kazakhstan

Kenya

Kuwait

Lebanon

Malawi

Malaysia

Mexico

Nepal

Nigeria

Norway

Oman

Pakistan

Palestine

Paraguay

Peru

Philippines

Qatar

Russia

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

South Africa

South Korea

Spain

Sri Lanka

Switzerland

Taiwan

Thailand

Turkey

United Arab Emirates

USA

Uzbekistan

Vietnam

Zambia

Zimbabwe

My country is not listed

English language requirements

IELTS (Academic)

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests

Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

LanguageCert Academic SELT

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

Pearson (PTE Academic)

TOEFL (iBT)

English language qualifications

AS/A-level (GCE)

GCE O-level

GCSE or IGCSE

Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate