Master's program in organic chemistry
Small carbon based molecules are the building blocks of life and also for many modern materials like pharmaceuticals, plastics and biofuels.
A degree in organic chemistry could lead to uncovering and understanding pollution, developing new drugs, fuels or foods or even discovering new, more sustainable materials in the private, public or academic sectors.
Many students use our master’s programme as a stepping stone to a PhD in chemistry. The master’s in organic chemistry teaches you to become a researcher.
A generous amount of laboratory time ensures that you can actually practice all of the theory you learn – real science for the real world. You will work closely with leading researchers in analytical and synthetic organic chemistry, being coached in small groups with low teacher-student ratios.
You will be surrounded by the world’s top chemists, not only some of the people who chose the Nobel winners but even attending the Nobel lectures of the prize winners themselves.
The program is 120 ECTS. Depending on your background in organic chemistry you will be adviced to follow one of the two suggested tracks, advanced track or alternative track.
The program consists of two or three mandatory courses depending on what track you are on, a total of 30-45 ECTS and an independent project of at least 30 ECTS.
You will also be able to take elective courses (at university level). A maximum of 30 ECTS on first level are allowed in your degree. You can choose to study a different branch of chemistry to become interdisciplinary. Some of the most important discoveries are happening where multiple disciplines meet, like where organic chemistry meets biology, biochemistry or quantum chemistry.
Year 1
Fall semester, advanced track
If you have extensive laboratory experience, we suggest the following study plan:
Advanced Organic Synthesis (KO7010), 15 ECTS (mandatory)
followed by
Organometallic Chemistry (KO7009), 15 ECTS (mandatory)
or...
Fall semester, alternative track
If you have limited laboratory experience, we suggest the following study plan:
Organic Chemistry - Reactivity and Structure (KO5001), 15 ECTS (mandatory)
followed by
Organometallic Chemistry (KO7009), 15 ECTS (mandatory)
Spring semester, both tracks
30 ECTS elective courses.
Year 2
Advanced track
60 ECTS degree project (mandatory)
or...
15 ECTS elective courses and 45 ECTS degree project (mandatory)
or...
30 ECTS elective courses and 30 ECTS degree project (mandatory)
Alternative track
Advanced organic synthesis, 15 ECTS (mandatory) and 45 ECTS degree project (mandatory)
or
Advanced organic synthesis, 15 ECTS (mandatory), 15 ECTS elective courses and 30 ECTS degree project (mandatory)
Independent project
The masters program in organic chemistry contains an independent project of a minimum of 30 ECTS.
In order to start working on your independent project you will have to have passed the two (or three, if you are following the alternative track) mandatory courses.
You apply for the program through universityadmissions.se
Selection process
Relevance of previous studies in relation to the programme and motivation letter.
As part of the application for our Master's programme you will be asked to provide a motivation letter. The motivation letter is an important selection criteria and must be uploaded together with your application at the university admissions site.
Please answer the follwing questions, and add the document to your application on university admissions. We expect maximum one A4 page.
- Your full name
- E-mail address
- The name of the masters programme you are applying to
- A list of completed courses, including number of credits, which count toward meeting the specific eligibility requirements for the program (please include courses not completed as well)
- Relevant experience, such as research, employment, volunteering that has contributed to experience
- What inspired you to apply to this particular program?
- Lab experience
- Why are you a good candidate?
- What do you hope to achieve with your degree?
- What research questions interest you and how do they relate to the ongoing research at Stockholm University?
Upload this letter with your application on to universityadmissions.se
Study abroad
We offer exchange programs with partner universities in both Europe and beyond. Studying abroad is a great way to gain new perspectives and experience a different culture.
Read more here!
Erasmus Traineeship
Many students choose to go abroad to collect data for their project work. A traineeship abroad provides valuable international experience and can be a great boost for your career. We strongly encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity during their studies.
Read more about Erasmus traineeship here!
A degree in organic chemistry could lead to uncovering and understanding pollution, developing new drugs, fuels or foods or even discovering new, more sustainable materials in the private, public or academic sectors.
Many students use our master’s programme as a stepping stone to a PhD in chemistry.
Program coordinator
Joseph Samec, email: joseph.samec@su.se
Chemistry Section & Student Affairs Office: chemistry@su.se
