Chemistry is in the midst of a transformation driven by advances in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. With cutting-edge facilities, world-beating research, and an outstanding network of industrial partners, Liverpool is one of the best places in the world to study how these technologies are upending traditional approaches to research and giving rise to a new discipline: digital chemistry.
Digital chemistry is the use of AI, big data, and robotics to transform the way we design and make new molecules and materials. Liverpool sits at the forefront of this revolution, from making groundbreaking findings in computational materials discovery to building our own suite of robotic chemists.
Our Digital Chemistry: AI, Machine Learning, Automation, and Robotics MSc is a cross-disciplinary programme that makes you part of that transformation, providing you with expertise in machine learning, automation, and digitalisation. We teach you these techniques from the ground-up, from Python and Arduino to cheminformatics and applied robotics, empowering you to directly tackle real-world chemistry problems, from climate change to drug discovery. You will develop critical digital skills and apply them across a range of chemical contexts, including pure materials, pharmaceuticals, and formulated materials.
This MSc is also available with the alternative title Chemistry with AI MSc for September 2026 entry. You have the option to graduate with either of these two MSc titles.
This programme is for BSc (Hons) Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science graduates, or graduates in other chemistry-related fields, with a 2:2 or equivalent, who want to see how code and data are transforming chemistry.
We’ll teach you to code in Python from the ground-up and no prior programming experience is needed. We aim to develop your skills and knowledge in the digital chemistry domain, equipping you for contemporary and pioneering professional practice or further study at the doctoral level.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
The programme will enable students to relate the concepts and techniques of AI, automation, robotics and machine learning to their applications in chemistry research. Students will critically apply selected digital methodologies in a variety of chemical contexts, such as pure materials, pharmaceuticals and formulated materials. Students will extend specific skills and knowledge, for example, in collaboration, digital literacy and working in interdisciplinary teams.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The programme will enable students to relate the concepts and techniques of AI, automation, robotics and machine learning to their applications in chemistry research. Students will critically apply selected digital methodologies in a variety of chemical contexts, such as pure materials, pharmaceuticals and formulated materials. Students will extend specific skills and knowledge, for example, in collaboration, digital literacy and working in interdisciplinary teams.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MSC DIGITAL CHEMISTRY RESEARCH PROJECT (CHEM506B) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching is delivered through a blend of interactive lectures, hands-on workshops, and self-directed study. As a Masters-level course, there is a strong emphasis on independent study and project-based learning. The programme blends both individual and group work, both giving you space to discover the topic at your own pace as well as ensuring you acquire the key teamwork skills that are essential for employability. Mini-projects undertaken throughout the year give you the chance to tackle problems by developing ideas and hypotheses, designing strategies to solve problems, and analysing and interpreting your findings.
As you advance through the course, semesters 1 and 2 lay the groundwork for the semester 3 research project. Semester 1 content introduces you to the basic skills required to become a digital chemist. Semester 2 builds on this content, translating into more applied settings.
Liverpool Curriculum Framework attributes and hallmarks are at the centre of this programme, and it is also informed by the University Education Strategy 2031. Research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment are embedded in all aspects of teaching. As you progress through the programme, you will enhance your problem-solving skills, independent learning, confidence and digital fluency. Inclusivity is at the heart of this programme, encompassing all aspects of equality, diversity and inclusion as part of value-based programme design. The programme is representative of the diversity of students and provides equal access to the curriculum.
Assessments in our Digital Chemistry MSc allow you to demonstrate a systematic knowledge and critical understanding of the application of AI, automation, machine learning, and robotics in chemistry.
The learning activities, resources, and assessments are aligned with learning outcomes, ensuring that you can demonstrate your knowledge and abilities effectively. We favour authentic assessment over final exams, meaning you will complete tasks that simulate real-world scenarios, such as hands-on workshops and project-driven assessments. This approach allows you to apply digital technologies in practical contexts and address real-world challenges in chemistry.
Assessment strategies will ensure that you can demonstrate your knowledge and skills through various methods, including coursework, teamwork, presentations, dissertation writing, and oral examinations. By engaging with these varied assessment types, you will gain experience in industry-relevant tasks, preparing them for professional practice.
You will receive feedback to support your learning progress across all modules, allowing for adjustments and improvements. You will also evaluate your own progress.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
You will have exclusive access to the £81M Materials Innovation Factory, a cutting-edge hub for AI-driven chemistry, automation, and robotics. Additionally, you will benefit from studying in our Central Teaching Laboratory, where world-class teaching facilities bring hands-on learning to life.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
Pursuing a master's here was a no-brainer, as it meant I would have access to state-of-the-art facilities and could connect with experts in the scientific field. I’ve particularly enjoyed participating in outreach and public engagement, where we show younger students how they can get into science and how scientists can come from all different backgrounds.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Upon completion of the MSc in Digital Chemistry, students will be qualified to enter a wide range of employment or pursue further study leading to a PhD.
The pharmaceutical, data science, analytics & informatics and chemical research industries are possible employers of graduates, especially given the anticipated increases in the use of next-generation sequencing and the corresponding data analysis that will be required.
Upon completion of the MSc in Digital Chemistry, graduates will also be qualified to enter careers such as finance & banking, software development, teaching and consultancy, where the skills obtained in the degree programme are highly valued.
Occupations linked to students who have studied chemistry in a higher education setting are set to grow across the UK. There is an anticipated growing demand for adaptable scientists who can harness the knowledge and skillsets of digital chemists.
The pharmaceutical, data science, analytics & informatics and chemical research industries are possible employers of graduates, especially given the anticipated increases in the use of next-generation sequencing and the corresponding data analysis that will be required.
Upon completion of the MSc in Digital Chemistry, graduates will also be qualified to enter careers such as finance & banking, software development, teaching and consultancy, where the skills obtained in the degree programme are highly valued.
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £14,000
Full-time place, per year - £32,000
Tuition fees are for the academic year 2026/27.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,858 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, specialist equipment, or stationery.
You can find information on the general and subject-specific costs you could expect to incur on our study costs webpage.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Are you a UK or Republic of Ireland student who completed your undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool? You could receive a £1,500 tuition fee discount, subject to the full eligibility criteria. This scholarship will be awarded to all eligible students.
The scholarship will be open to two UK students in the 2026/27 academic year and is worth £5,000. Students must be studying a postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool. Those on data science or coding courses may be given priority.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in Biochemistry, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science or a Chemistry-related field. |
| International qualifications |
The minimum entry requirements are equivalent to a 2:2 UK BSc (Hons) degree in Biochemistry, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science or a Chemistry-related field. International candidates are required to have a level of English equivalent to IELTS 6.5 or reach this standard by satisfactorily completing equivalent pre-sessional English language classes at the University of Liverpool. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with writing not less than 125, speaking and reading not less than 115, and listening not below 110. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 120 overall, with no component below 105. |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 65 |
| PSI Skills for English | B2 Pass with Merit in all bands |
| INDIA Standard XII | National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English. |
| WAEC | C6 or above |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with writing at 5.5 and no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience, living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 27 February 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions