A personal approach

The Department of Chemistry highly values a personal approach, which manifests itself in lectures and extensive practical exercises in small groups. You have easy access to professors and teaching staff, who are available to coach you throughout your studies.

A wide choice of optional courses makes it possible to tailor your study program to your specific interests. You are also encouraged to carry out an internship in Belgium or abroad.

International Solvay Institutes

Chemistry in Brussels goes back to 1913, when Ernest Solvay founded the International Institute for Chemistry. In 1970, the Solvay family in association with the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) founded and independent body, the International Institutes for Physics and Chemistry, to continue this important quest for the advancement of scientific knowledge. Over the years, these institutes have remained symbols of scientific excellence. The Solvay Institute organises conferences and meetings that attract and invite the most prominent chemists, and VUB's Chemistry Department is proud of this tradition.

VUB in the media

For all VUB news and recent developments, check our newspage vubtoday!

3 profiles, 1 degree

You have a choice of 3 profiles: Research, Industry or Education (30 ECTS in Dutch only). Whichever profile you choose, you graduate with the same Master’s degree in Chemistry. During your studies you will acquire a solid formation as a chemist and can participate in high-level research. The VUB Master in Chemistry is clearly a top choice.

Take a look at an example of your future timetable!

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes describe the intended knowledge and understanding, skills and attitudes that you must master after completing your studies.

Do you want to know more about the specific learning outcomes of this programme? Click here for more information.

Chemists wanted!

Did you know that Belgian companies are constantly searching for chemists? In Belgium, chemists are among the best-paying jobs. The Master in Chemistry prepares you for an interesting career in one of the most research intensive and growing sectors worldwide. Graduates work in a wide range of areas: in research, production, laboratories, sales and management. A number of chemists work in government labs, in food safety and research, production of drinking water, waste management and many other environmental aspects. In medical labs, hospitals and the pharmaceutical industry there is also a growing need for chemists.

The profile Industry prepares you for a career in both technical and business aspects of chemistry (e.g. as Quality Assurance Officer, Technical Director, Project Manager, etc.). The profile Research opens the way to a scientific career, focused on research at universities (PhD research), institutes or even industry (e.g. as Pharmaceutical R&D manager, Compound Development Team Leader, Expert Analytical Development, etc.).

Admission criteria

For bachelors in science, applied science and life sciences, admission will be evaluated based on academic records and skills. A solid background in organic and analytical/inorganic chemistry is required, as well as basic knowledge of quantum chemistry. To be accepted to this Master’s programme, applicants should have the equivalent of at least an upper second class honours degree (overall mark of more than 60%).

Application

Admission is based upon acceptance of the application (proof of meeting the academic and language requirements, satisfactory background...). All necessary information regarding the admission requirements, deadlines and application forms can be found on the application page.