ObjectivesThis course aims to prepare graduates for a career in the chemical industry, including the pharmaceutical industry, and any others involving synthesis such as the petrochemical, polymer or agrichemical industry. It aims to produce graduates with: * technical (laboratory) skills in preparative organic and inorganic chemistry; * computing literacy; * effective oral, written and interpersonal communication skills; * teamwork skills; * an appreciation of the environmental constraints affecting the chemical industry; * an appreciation of how to produce a business plan. Learning outcomes On completion of their degree, students will have developed a comprehensive and well-founded knowledge in their discipline and a range of transferable professional skills Subject knowledge Graduates of the course are expected to be able to: * demonstrate a thorough understanding of all aspects of chemistry in general, and specialist skills in the methods and techniques relevant to working in the medical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and related industries; * demonstrate an understanding of the chemical industry and the way it operates, especially the pharmaceutical industry and others involving synthesis such as the petrochemical, polymer and agrichemical industries; and * apply their awareness of the environmental constraints affecting the chemical industry in bringing products to market. Transferable professional skills Graduates of the course are expected to be able to: * employ scientific methodologies such as experimental design, and the critical analysis of data; * communicate and present information clearly and fluently in both written and spoken forms; * interact effectively as part of a team in order to work towards a common outcome; * work and learn independently; * reason critically and logically and make independent judgements; * engage effectively with information and communication technologies; * demonstrate research skills appropriate for further study and employment; * appreciate the need for continuing professional development; and * act ethically as professionals.
Entry requirementsThe minimum requirements for consideration for entry to all undergraduate courses are specified in detail in the University Entry Requirements. Successful completion of SACE Year 12 Chemistry, or the equivalent, is required for entry to the Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Chemistry.
Academic titleBachelor of Science in Medicinal Chemistry
Course descriptionThe Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Chemistry combines the background knowledge that underpins chemistry with specific content that links chemistry with pharmacology, biotechnology and the chemical industry.
The study program retains the key elements of traditional science training while providing you with an unparalleled understanding of the industry and the way it operates.
The course will:
* train you in key areas of science;
* add skills in the development of new materials and technologies; and
* prepare you as a chemist who can work in the medical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and related industries.
What is Medicinal Chemistry?
Medicinal chemists are specialised and highly trained industrial chemists who prepare, develop and analyse products for the pharmaceutical and related industries.
They play a vital role in creating many of the things we use every day, particularly those involved in human, animal and agricultural health.
Why study Medicinal Chemistry at Flinders?
* Chemistry has been a major strength at Flinders since the University's inception 40 years ago and it continues to underpin much of our innovation in the ‘new sciences' - from forensics to biotechnology, nanotechnology and targeted drug design and development.
* We have brought together the 3 disciplines of chemistry, physics and earth sciences into 1 school, allowing chemists specialising in molecular synthesis, drug design & development, physical organic chemistry, innovative analytical techniques and surface science to work alongside other scientists with expertise in atomic, molecular, plasma and nuclear physics, hydrology and meteorology.
* Research publications in Natural Products and Drug Discovery and Development from the School consistently enjoy high citation rates and stimulate collaboration with researchers in Australia and overseas.
* Our synthetic chemistry research facilities also are among Australia's best, making Flinders an ideal location for teaching and research both in the classroom and the laboratory.
Professional recognition
Our graduates meet the requirements for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.
Combined degree options
Combine with
Duration (full-time equivalent)
Bachelor of Innovation and Enterprise (Science and Technology)
4 years
Refer to Science and Technology combined degrees for further information.
Career opportunities
What can I do with my Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Chemistry degree?
Study a language
Flinders also offers all students the opportunity to major in a language in conjunction with any undergraduate course. The Diploma in Language is designed to provide students with competence in a chosen language that adds greater portability to their qualifications. You will complete a total of one extra year of study and graduate with both your chosen degree and the Diploma in Language. You can apply for this at time of enrolment.
The Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Chemistry requires three years of full-time study (or the equivalent part-time) and the honours program an additional year (or equivalent part-time).
The course is offered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
PROGRAM OF STUDY [November, 2008]
To qualify for the Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Chemistry, a student must complete 108 units, with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the program of study below.
Not all topics are necessarily available in a given year.
First Year
36 units comprising:
BIOL1102
Molecular Basis of Life
4.5
CHEM1101
Chemistry 1A
4.5
CHEM1102
Chemistry 1B
4.5
CHMD1001
Professional Skills for Medicinal Chemistry
4.5
ENGL1001
Professional English
4.5
and one of:
MATH1121
Mathematics 1A*, or
4.5
MATH1202
Introductory Mathematics 1B
4.5
Elective Topics
9
While students may select electives from any area of the University, the following are recommended:
BIOL1101
Evolution of Biological Diversity
4.5
COMP1101
Information and Communications Technology 1A
4.5
COMP1102
Computer Programming 1
4.5
CPES1201
Physics for the Life Sciences A
4.5
CPES1202
Physics for the Life Sciences B
4.5
MATH1122
Mathematics 1B*
4.5
PHYS1101
Physics 1A, or
4.5
PHYS1102
Physics 1B
4.5
STAT1412
Data Analysis Laboratory
4.5
* Students who have achieved a mark of at least 18 in SACE Stage 2 Specialist Mathematics, or at least 6 in International Baccalaureate Mathematics HL, have the option of doing the corresponding topics MATH1141 Advanced Mathematics 1A (instead of MATH1121) and MATH1142 Advanced Mathematics 1B (instead of MATH1122).
Second Year
36 units comprising:
BIOL2141
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
6
CHMD2001
Drug Discovery and Natural Products
3
CPES2101
Fundamentals of Advanced Chemistry
6
CPES2102
Analytical Chemistry 2
6
CPES2111
Synthetic Organic and Inorganic Chemistry
6
CPES2142
Physical Chemistry 2
6
Plus either:
MMED2927
Human Physiology 2A, or
3
BIOL2424
Physiological Systems
3
Third Year
36 units comprising:
CHMD3001
Medicinal Chemistry and Practical Project
6
CPES3006
Organic Chemistry 3
6
CPES3101
Analytical Chemistry 3
6
CPES3162
Inorganic and Polymer Chemistry
6
BUSN2016
Science-Based Enterprises
3
MMED3914
Human Molecular Pharmacology
6
Electives
3
STUDENTS WHO ARE CONTINUING IN THE THIRD YEAR OF THE PROGRAM AND STUDYING ACCORDING TO THE PRE-2008 COURSE RULE SHOULD COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING THIRD YEAR PROGRAM.