THIS IS A LONG ONE !!!
UPDATED ! - End of final year opinion!
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Chemistry at Cardiff University - The Low Down
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/chemy/
Wow, the first year has already finished and I feels like I have only been here for a couple of months! Anyhow, there are now more detailed ... Read review
Chemistry at Cardiff University - The Low Down
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/chemy/
Wow, the first year has already finished and I feels like I have only been here for a couple of months! Anyhow, there are now more detailed sections that were previously omitted because I had not studied them, I've highlighted the updates with a " * ", for easy ... ...this you need a solid chemistry degree, all the courses that are plain Forensic Science often DO NOT contains the core chemistry needed or wanted by the FSS (Forensic Science Service). Others in my year group have come from medicine rejections, or biochemistry/biology swaps.
What ever your background, I would suggest that you take A level maths as this can be a huge advantage to you if you are thinking about chemistry. (If you only ... more
THIS IS A LONG ONE !!!
UPDATED ! - End of final year opinion! =================================================
Chemistry at Cardiff University - The Low Down http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/chemy/
Wow, the first year has already finished and I feels like I have only been here for a couple of months! Anyhow, there are now more detailed sections that were previously omitted because I had not studied them, I've highlighted the updates with a " * ", for easy viewing.
First of all I have to say that Cardiff really is a nice place … except for when England beat Wales and then it's not too safe if you are English ;-) Only joking! The city is well kept, and it has a pleasant atmosphere (which isn't too badly polluted!!) However it still has the "busy-busy" feeling to it, and trust me you will not sleep the first week being here! My current bedtimes are around 1-2am only to have to wake up and get out of bed at 8. I really like it here, and settling in, as a first year student has really been pretty easy, the same goes for most of my fellow chemists.
Some reasons why we become chemists … and no it's not because we are sad! Most want to go into the forensic departments of the police or government or private labs etc, and in order to do this you need a solid chemistry degree, all the courses that are plain Forensic Science often DO NOT contains the core chemistry needed or wanted by the FSS (Forensic Science Service). Others in my year group have come from medicine rejections, or biochemistry/biology swaps.
What ever your background, I would suggest that you take A level maths as this can be a huge advantage to you if you are thinking about chemistry. (If you only have GCSE like I do, then bring your old revision guides with you! They will be useful at times as one of the modules that you are required to take if you do not hold a grade at A level in maths is a mathematical methods module for chemistry.
Modules preface: I have tried to keep it as not science as possible, with the thought that most people reading this probably might not be science based, but there are just some points where you cant help it, and there are some references to core aspects of the A level course mentioned for those students reference.
MODULES Studied: =============== CH2101 - Kinetics / Spectroscopy: A module based on rates of reactions, their calculations, gases laws/calculations as well as the investigative part of chemistry using photons and electrons to detect properties of the molecule etc. My Though : The kinetics was ok, once you remembered a few equations, but we are told these will be coming up time and time again, making the learning bit that much more important, especially as you will fail the exam on this if you don't look at them. The kinetics part wasn't too bad but physical chemistry isn't really my thing. The spectroscopy was pretty had, and most if not all our class found it difficult to understand, but it's one of those subjects that it takes a while to absorb in and you slowly get your head around it.
CH2102 - Structure Bonding: You learn about atomic structures and the very basic quantum mechanics (which is pretty easy but sounds impressive!). You then go onto learn about how atoms bond (molecular orbital theory), and why, as well as what shapes the molecules will take when bonded using VSEPR (valence shell electron pair repulsion theory) The last part of the module is to do with metal complexes, those of you doing second year A level know what I mean! (For those of you who don't it's basically a metal ion (an ion being a charged (+/-) atom) in solution, I really don't want to make this too sciency!) You cover why they look all those pretty colours they do and some calculations which seemed kind of pointless but hey it might come in handy one day! My Thought : Sad to say but I enjoyed this module the information was easy to handle and it helped explain a lot of things linked with CH2103, as well as providing necessary information for molecules structures. I liked this module! THUMBS UP!
CH2103 - Structure / Reactivity: This is the topic that most of the class enjoyed organic chemistry at last! This module takes you through some basic bonding principles of molecules, and functional groups. You then look at reactions of molecules such as oil derivatives and alcohols and carboxylic acid derivatives (for A level people - acyl halides, esters, etc…) My Thought: Most of this module was pretty straight forward as a lot of it is covered in A level chemistry, and the reaction mechanisms which sound and look hard to do tend to follow easily learnt patterns. This is my favourite part of chemistry and so naturally I enjoyed this module.
CH2104 - General Principles: This module is aimed to give all the different students who are examined under different syllabuses the chance to even out the gap and polish up on basic skills like balancing equations and calculations. Then you look at equilibrium reactions and their calculations. My Thought: Nothing to hard here, a little boring and taxing at times, but if you do all the tests correctly then you can get sufficient marks to mean that you don't have even pass the exam! But you still have to sit it! The equilibrium stuff for A level people is closely on the stuff that you do in your course, acting a long winded recap, with a little new material.
CH2105 - Thermodynamics: Having only started this module not a lot to say but going over the laws of thermodynamics and seeing why reactions occur, and reasons why they do not, and calculations of energies released from the reactions, disorder and Gibbs free energy. My Thought: So far this seems to be vastly a lot of calculations, and I haven't really found it that interesting to be honest, but its one of these physical chemistry modules that needs to be learnt and understood in order to pass!
*6. CH2106 - Solid State Chemistry: This is dealing with the bonding of solids, geometries that are taken up by atoms and how crystals like ordinary salt can be more complexly described as a "face centre cubic pattern with the sodium (or chloride) ions filling in all available octahedral holes…etc etc" You look at the explanations of why they take these shapes, how they bond to each other, why metals conduct and how to calculate the energies that hold the atoms together, as well as those that have a repulsion effect stopping the structure collapsing in on it's self. My Thought: I enjoyed this module, its very visual so those of you who are not so good at visualising shapes and rotating, and dealing with 3D in your head may not be so complementary of this topic, but if you can visualise the shapes and patterns then its pretty straight forward, the exam was nicer than I thought as well!
7. CH2107 - Synthetic Chemistry: Yey more organic chemistry, so far we have covered reactions that place functional groups onto molecules, how we construct c-c chains and reagents and conditions. Non science explanation goes as thus … the module is about how we make molecules, i.e. how we make aspirin say from basic smaller molecules. My Thought: I like this module so far, its nice to know how the modern world comes up with all these molecules and how to make them, how they manage to get the same structure every time, this is something which is really appreciated by those who enjoy learning about how things work, and why.
*8. CH2108 - Characterisation of Molecules: This module sounded bad from the start, and the first lesson confirmed this! This module covered the use of infra red and ultraviolet spectroscopy, and elements of this. This is simply put as using different wavelengths of light to identify molecules. It also looks at symmetry of molecules and how to identify which types of symmetry and which class the molecule belongs to according to its symmetry elements. My Thought: I think it was more just the teaching method for this course that made it hard, and our current lack of experience using the results obtained from the infrared, and ultraviolet spectroscopy that made the tests hard and frustrating. The symmetry was difficult to see, mainly again due to, in my opinion some poor teaching, but once it clicks then its really not that bad.
Optional: 1. Forensic Chemistry - Forensic analysis techniques and drug analysis, pretty interesting although quite a bit of reading, but not much chemistry in it which makes a nice change!
2. Special Topics I - Covers three units on discoveries and development of chemistry, environmental chemistry and sexual attraction - pheromones.
3. Biological Chemistry - I didn't take this module, but it covers DNA, RNA etc. biological pathways.
4. Special Topics II - similar to special topics one, coving clean energy, household chemistry.
5. Chemistry of the Cosmos - science in space.
6. MATHS for chemistry - basic maths to help with the mathematical side of chemistry V V V V V V V V V USEFUL !
7. Any other free standing module from any course in university, as long as you have the grades, and or previous experience as well. Eg. Law, psychology or a language.
The Lectures ========== These take place most of the time in a chemistry based lecture theatre, just like any other standard theatre, where the seats are staggered and you have little tables in front of you to write on! How cool!!! The vast majority of the subjects materials are taught this way by the teachers via overheads, white board/chalk board notation and computer presentations such as PowerPoint.
The standard of teaching ranges, as you have to remember that these Dr's and Prof's aren't formally trained in teaching. As with all cases some you enjoy, and they teach well, others don't carry the information across as well, but this is also down to personal preference, and its hard to make even the most boring topics seem good!
The Tutorials ========== Every week you attend a small group a fraction of the normal class size which is about 6 people where you have been given some question to complete before hand and you then go over these with a lecturer in your groups. As there isn't that much opportunity to ask questions during lectures, and only after them, this also acts as a question time period where they can go over topics that are causing problems to you.
The Workshops =========== These are cunningly renamed, and they are basically intermittent testing periods that count towards your overall year results. So in essence you get a little mid point test to keep you on your toes, some subjects have these every week, and yes that is LAME!
Practical Work =========== You get let loose to play with chemicals (in an adult and responsible manner of course) two times a week in the first year for 3hours each time. And yes this does seem like a long time, but often the practicals can be completed before this time. The practicals, well I have mixed feelings on these, for the subjects you have covered the theory for, they often go quite easily, but some experiments, it's hard to understand the point behind doing them, let alone some of the theory! Sad but the truth. Overall this gives you ample time to get some lab experience, and you can also have a bit of fun working with your classmates getting to know them, and avoid spilling all the harmful chemicals down them!
The Homework =========== The workload for this really isn't too bad, although it could quickly pile up if you don't keep your head slightly above water. This mainly consists of worksheets to do, and lab write ups to finish, but other than that its not to bad… oh and the essays .. see later.
The Textbooks =========== So far in the first year I have used three main books, of which one will be useful for your whole course.
Organic Chemistry - by Clayden etc - Very nicely explained but not used very much at the moment. This will last you for either your Bsc or your MChem degree!
The elements of physical Chemistry - Atkins - this is a basic and often very handy book which should see you through the first two years of your course. I have used it a lot in the kinetics and spectroscopy part of the course, and I can see having to use it even more!
Structure and Bonding & d-block chemistry - Nice starter books, try and pick them up second hand if you can for saving money as they cost £10 each! But nice reference book when you don't quite understand something.
Another useful one, maybe not to purchase, but to at least browse at is "Basic Solid State Chemistry by Anthony R. West". This book covers some useful topics for the CH2106 solid bonding module, and it set out in a clear and well explained way.
Other than the above, I haven't really consistently used others. The library contains copies of all of these, its just nice to have your own.
Those are above links to Amazon where you can look at the books I am talking about. It's also worth checking out eBay for second hand ones, just check the edition number to make sure it's the latest if possible. As I managed to get the two OUP Primers by Winter for about £5.50 off there, and they are in good condition, so saved some money for a pint or two!
Essays ===== These are generally asked of you in the optional modules that I mentioned above, the standard is 1000 words expected, and can range on topics, such as looking at famous discoveries, pheromones or even techniques used.
Other ==== There are often special guest lectures going on, often on the most randomness of topics which are free to anyone in the department to go and see, often pretty interesting, but being a first year I only understand the first 15mins, then get boggled by the rest! But they are interesting as they provide you with information as to what is going on in other fields of the subject as well as maybe providing you with a specialist field you might consider going into!
The Socials ======== Its not all work work work in the labs and lectures, there are social events "Cheese and Wine" nights which are organised by the chemistry social body, where it's a basic and then often on to a pub later!drink as much as you like of beer or wine Although I haven't been two one, friends say they are pretty good! Not quite part of the chemistry topic or their social events, but our class have organised pub crawls as well often with the accompanying fancy dress of cowboys and Indians etc. These have provided great nights not only to learn where the bars are, but to also get to know your fellow students and who you are going to spend a lot of time with over the next few years!
You're Classmates ============ At first we were all in the same boat, and it was very very quiet, and everyone was pretty shy over the first few weeks, but as time goes on you WILL find friends, its easy, and I get on well with the vast majority of the group, as some people keep them self to them selves. Overall the people that are on my course, are all smart, friendly and we get on well as a bunch! Just the ticket for enjoying university!
==================================================== Take a 5minute break and get some coffee before continuing… ==========================================================Getting Help ========= Often we all turn to each other thinking … umm what did he say? But eventually it becomes clear, and if your not sure there are plenty of people to ask for help. First off classmates who were listening in the first place, but more often than not the first port of call is the lecturer of that topic. I have had to go and see them quite a few times in little groups of us sheep! They are always helpful, and it's really nice to have them take the time to go through it with you, you don't feel stupid, and it makes life so much easier! The staff here are really great in that respect.
In the laboratories during practicals there are often assistants to the main lecturer who are PhD students. I have lost count of the amount of help they have given me and friends! They like the lecturers help as best they can, and often pass on little bits of advice, or tips on how to do things.
Personal Tutor ========== Just like at secondary school, and college, you will be assigned to one of the teaching staff which will act as a port of call for problems you have, chasing up illness, and absentness. They also act as advice givers! And make sure that you are settling in ok, and coping with the course. If you can't speak with them, then just like if you have a problem, you can easily get hold of them through email, or leaving notes in their pigeon holes. The communication between students and staff is very easy and often very helpful.
Timetables ======== It has to be said that being a hardcore chemist, you will be getting up almost everyday at 8am, to walk the 15/20mins to the university from your halls to get into the lectures at 9am! But luckily the lectures only go on for 50minutes! This might not seem that long, but trust me it can drag, and OMG they do pack a lot of material into that time!
*EXAMS! ====== You will be assessed in a modular sense, sitting one, one hour long exam on each module, the first 6 in January, and the last 6 in May time. In January my exams were all at 9am! But in the summer they were all afternoon based, which provides extra time to revise! In the grand scheme the chemistry exams sit fairly close to the beginning of the exam periods, which is nice because there is still some time to relax and party after the exams before you start working again in February or break up for summer.
*Overall Impressions ============== Well things have changed since the first edition of this course, and I have decided to stay on the course, even though second year students have said it gets a lot harder! The course has had good points and bad points, and some of the modules have been good and some bad, but this is probably common to each course. I have really enjoyed this year, when I have been learning and when I have been partying and living the student life. If you stick with the course it becomes ok, and I suppose it depends on which parts of the course you enjoy, personally I find structural aspects and organic chemistry my strong points, but then again this course is tailored to cover a wide range. I have found my self sat in a lecture at 9am wondering why I got out of bed, but in the end its all been worth while, as job prospects are looking up for chemists as less and less people are taking this very useful subject.
RSC - Royal Society of Chemistry ========================== This is the professional body of which you can join to do with all things chemistry!
Any question you want to ask, then I shall place them in a review update along with my answers if I can answer them!
Advantages: Colourful, subject well covered, regular questions to test your knowledge Disadvantages: Sometimes too detailed, paragraphs too long, expensive
When I first chose my A-level subjects Chemistry was not one of them. In fact I wasn't even studying Chemistry at the beginning of this school year! I chose to do Religious Studies. After only 3 weeks of studying RS I knew there was no way I could put up with it for two years, as the teacher was really bad and he made the work confusing. So I went to see the head of 6th Form and asked if I could swap RS for Chemistry. And so I became an AS-level Chemistry student?
**For those of you that don't know, AS stands for Advanced Subsidiary and is half an A-level. They take one year to complete. AS levels count as a qualification on their own or an additional year's study can make it an A-level.**
And now for the book?
I was given this book in my first chemistry lesson. I don't actually own it, I need to give it back at the end ...
Advantages: Small friendly department, interesting course Disadvantages: It never stops raining in Bangor!
The Chemistry Department at Bangor is small, but this isn't a disadvantage. Because it's a small department, everyone knows each other by name, and its very friendly. There is no problem with asking for help with the course at any time, the lecturers will go out of their way to help if they feel they can.
The chemistry course itself is challenging (what would be the point if it wasn't?) but also extremely interesting. You follow 6 modules a semester (of which there are 2). The modules are well thought out and carefully structured to fit your degree. There are many variants of chemistry degrees to choose from. Pure chemistry, Environmental chemistry, joint honours chemistry to name but a few. All courses follow a set of core modules with students getting a choice in some of the others.
Exams are at the end of every semester ...
loooeze 17.08.2000
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Chemistry
OK, so you're thinking of studying Chemistry? At Reading? Well, you've made the best decision. I put Reading as my first choice and I never regretted it. I took three years at Reading and a year abroad. The lecturers are great; very approachable and easy to get along with. Don't get me wrong, if you don't do the work, they'll 'kick' you when you need it. The course is well structured and you get a lot of choices in what 'extra' modules you take. Just avoid first year soil science no matter how much they try to sell it to you!! Generally, if you come to Reading, you have great department staff, you are supported by great postgraduates and if you work hard (enough), you'll have a great time at Reading. Enjoy not only the course but the night life that also goes with the student life.......Reading has a new shopping centre with loads of new ...
saxybear 26.07.2000
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Chemistry
