MTech: Chemistry

The aim of this programme is to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct independent research in chemistry and environmental sciences, and to contribute significantly to knowledge production through the understanding, application and evaluation of existing and new knowledge. The research problem, its justification, process and outcome are reported in a dissertation, which complies with the generally accepted international norms at this level.

The need for new products, new applications of existing products or raw materials is increasing at a rapid rate. An exponential growth in the human population is putting increasing pressure on agricultural land for food production, which results in an increase in the use of fertilizers and pesticides that can be harmful to the environment. Concern for the environment and the effects of chemical and related process industries means that the monitoring of effluent discharges and remediation strategies have become more important. The medicinal value of plants is being recognised on a larger scale, which results in a need for a better understanding of the chemical composition of these plants and their pharmacology.Graduates play an important and direct role in these fields and are employed in the research and development as well as the health and safety departments of companies. They are also employed in teaching positions at Higher Education institutions.