Life as a Student at the Department of Chemistry

As a student at the Department of Chemistry, you become part of a large, interdisciplinary academic environment. The department is hosting the study programs in Chemistry (Bachelor's and Master's programs), Nanoscience (Master's program), and Medical Technology (5y. Integrated Master's program (Civ. Eng.)).

• Chemistry: Chemistry is the central science for those who want to learn about the structure and properties of the substances that make up our world. Chemistry is essential for understanding both global and local challenges related to the environment, health, and energy. The opportunities as a chemist are many. You can develop new products, contribute to better health, safe and nutritious food, and new energy solutions.
   
• Nanotechnology: Nanotechnology is about creating and utilizing materials whose properties are determined by phenomena at the nanometer scale. Small changes at the nano level can lead to major transformations and new applications for materials. Nanotechnology is used to develop new products such as more efficient solar cells and lighter batteries, or for the production and storage of renewable energy.
   
• Medical Technology: Medical technology involves the use of instrumentation and information technology to improve health and quality of life. You can help develop better medicines, apply and create software and equipment for improved diagnostics, and use new technologies to treat various diseases. Medical Technology is a five-year integrated Master's degree that qualifies you to work in fields such as the hospital sector, information technology, or the pharmaceutical industry.

The Department of Chemistry is also a partner department for the Pharmacy-, Energy- and Teacher Training- programs. Students from a wide range of study programs also come to the department to learn the chemistry they need.

Chemistry is a field with interdisciplinary relevance.The Department of Chemistry is a place of academic diversity where students and researchers from all backgrounds come together. This creates a learning environment where you collaborate with people who have expertise in different fields—an environment that resembles what you will encounter in your future job.

Photo:

Randi H Eilertsen, UiB

Social Student Life: We meet in the lab!

Pursuing a degree in chemistry is a personal achievement, but the journey is more social than many expect. Laboratory courses are a central part of student life at the Department of Chemistry.

Students meet and work closely together both in and outside the labs, and you’ll encounter students from across the department at social events organized by the student-run academic committee.

Throughout your studies, you’ll gain practical skills and also get to know your fellow students—both in the lab and afterward, when writing reports. This contributes greatly to the study environment—students spend time together, learn together, and often meet up afterward for a drink at Integrerbar.

Research-Based Teaching

The Department of Chemistry is engaged in both research and education. This means you’ll be taught by active researchers with high academic competence and up-to-date knowledge. You’ll see how the subject matters in the real world.

All study programs and courses at the department are taught by experts in their fields. This applies whether you study chemistry, nanoscience, medical technology, or take chemistry courses as part of another studyprogram.