Outline of Honours in Chemistry
Honours Chemistry is a full year of study and equates to 120 credit points (60 + 60 = 120 credit points)
It is possible to commence an honours programme in Semester 2 of one year and complete it in Semester 1 of the following year. It is also possible to do the course part-time (usually extending over 3 semesters).
In an honours year, each student:
- undertakes a research project under the supervision of a member of staff
- writes a thesis which explains the problem, outlines the research undertaken and the results obtained
- attends advanced lecture courses and seminars
Research project
Each student undertakes an individual research project under the supervision of a member of academic staff. This culminates in writing a thesis that explains the problem being investigated, outlines the research undertaken and reports results obtained.
The research project is a particularly valuable and rewarding experience. Students will develop individual investigative skills, critical thinking, the ability to analyse experimental data and evaluate scientific and professional literature, to articulate your knowledge and understanding in written and oral presentations and to work as part of a team.
Important Note: It is important to make contact with the potential supervisor before submitting your application for honours research projects, as entry into a research program requires having an available supervisor and agreed research topic.
The research project contributes 60% to the overall assessment of Honours.
Coursework
The Honours Chemistry coursework develops students' depth and breadth of knowledge of chemistry. Topics taught serve to build on undergraduate subjects, while additionally exposing students to new and specialised fields of chemistry.
The coursework component requires students to take nine units from the coursework topics (of six lectures each; or equivalent). The assessment will be on the best 8 courses. Honours students may, with the approval of the Head of Department, substitute up to 2 fourth-year subjects offered by other Departments, such as biochemistry, mathematics or physics.
Coursework contributes 40% to the overall assessment of Honours.
Seminars and colloquia
All students present two seminars during the year and are expected to attend Departmental research seminars. Attendance at the Chemistry Safety and Induction Course in February is compulsory.
Assessment
Lecture units are assessed by examination or by a take-home project. The research project is assessed on the basis of a written thesis and an oral examination. The coursework and research project count 40% and 60%, respectively, of the total honours mark.