Description
Chemistry – 1st cycle studies
Do you want to understand how the world works at the level of molecules and use this knowledge in practice? Choose chemistry – a degree programme that provides solid scientific foundations and real professional skills.
During six semesters of study, you will gain broad, interdisciplinary knowledge in chemistry, mathematics, physics, biology and biochemistry. You will learn how to plan and conduct experiments, analyse results, work with modern laboratory equipment, and solve research and technological problems. You will also develop your language skills – the programme includes a four-semester English course and selected chemistry classes taught in English.
The programme allows you to choose your own path of development. You can select modules such as: Medicinal Chemistry, Organic and Biological Chemistry, Inorganic and Structural Chemistry, or Physical Chemistry with Electrochemistry, as well as workshop classes in chemical analytics, computational chemistry, luminescent materials chemistry or polymer chemistry.
As part of your bachelor’s thesis, you conduct your own scientific research and learn how to professionally present results, search for information, and understand the basics of commercialisation and intellectual property protection.
Test yourself while studying
A compulsory four-week professional internship allows you to experience a real working environment, gain practical experience and make your first professional contacts. Our graduates work in research laboratories and in the chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food industries.
What next?
Graduating in chemistry gives you real career opportunities. Our graduates work in laboratories and in companies involved in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and food production.
The Chemistry programme is offered at the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Silesia, in cooperation with the Institute of Chemistry. It is a recognised teaching and research centre that conducts scientific research at a world-class level. This is confirmed by the A category awarded in the latest national evaluation.
Do you want to study in a place that provides solid foundations and opens doors to many industries? Choose chemistry!
2nd cycle studies
Develop your passion and gain practical experience!
Do you want to combine science with practice? A master’s degree in chemistry will allow you to deepen your knowledge and choose a specialisation that truly interests you. Here you learn not only theory, but also practical skills that will be useful in your professional work and research.
What will you gain by studying second-cycle chemistry?
- Work in laboratories with modern equipment and conduct your own research.
- The ability to solve chemical problems independently and as part of a team.
- Experience gained during workshops, internships and projects carried out with chemical companies.
- Opportunities to develop your interests in student research groups and individual projects.
After completing these studies, you are prepared to work in science, laboratories and the chemical industry, or to continue an academic career.
Rekrutacja rozpoczyna się 2 czerwca
Curriculum
Chemistry – 1st cycle studies
Duration of studies: 6 semesters
Number of ECTS credits: 180
Selected courses:
- Analytical Chemistry – detection and determination of substances in water, food, medicines and biological material.
● Inorganic Chemistry – metals, salts and materials used in electronics and construction.
● Organic Chemistry – carbon compounds: medicines, cosmetics, fuels and polymers.
● Physical Chemistry – why and how fast reactions occur.
● Quantum Chemistry – the behaviour of electrons and the source of the properties of substances.
● Instrumental Techniques – operation of modern analytical equipment.
● Nuclear Energy – chemistry in energy production.
Forms of classes:
- lectures
- laboratory classes
- practicals
- discussion classes
- workshops
Chemistry 2nd cycle studies – master’s degree studies
Duration of studies: 4 semesters
Number of ECTS credits: 120
Selected courses:
- Theoretical Chemistry
- Chemometrics
- Instrumental Techniques in Inorganic Analysis
- Separation Techniques
- Crystallography
- Molecular Spectroscopy
- Planning and Optimisation of Experiments
Formy zajęć:
- lectures
- discussion classes
- laboratory classes
- workshops
- seminars
Majors
Chemistry – 1st cycle studies
A common start – many paths of development
In the first-cycle studies programme you do not choose a specialisation. All students follow the same curriculum. This allows you to learn the fundamentals of chemistry and gain practical skills useful in the work of a chemist, for example in laboratories or in chemical and pharmaceutical companies.
In the third year you choose course modules, which are sets of subjects from a selected area of chemistry. This allows you to focus on what interests you most. You can choose, among others:
- Medicinal Chemistry – you will learn how medicines are created and how they work in the human body.
- Chemistry of Luminescent Materials – you study materials that emit light, for example in screens and lamps.
- Polymer Chemistry – you learn what plastics, rubber and fibres are made of.
- Chemical Analytics – learn how to determine the composition of different substances.
- Computational Chemistry – you can see how computers help study molecules and chemical reactions.
Chemistry – 2nd cycle studies
After completing the 1st cycle degree studies, you can take the next step. In the 2nd cycle studies you choose a specialisation that matches your interests and career plans.
You can choose from seven modern majors, closely connected with research conducted at the Institute of Chemistry:
- Chemical Analytics – study everything from medicines and food to the environment and works of art. Enter the world of modern laboratories and learn how to obtain reliable analytical results.
- Biomedical chemistry – explore the secrets of the human body and how medicines work. You combine chemistry with biology to contribute to modern medicine and help people.
- Forensic chemistry – feel like a detective in the laboratory. You analyse microtraces, samples and toxicology to uncover the truth in criminal investigations.
- Physical Chemistry of Condensed Phases – explore matter and create new materials. Learn how to study molecules and modern substances using advanced equipment.
- Modern Materials for Innovative Technologies – create the materials of the future. Work with technologies used in photonics, optoelectronics, solar cells and bioimaging.
- Synthesis and Physicochemistry of Organic and Inorganic Compounds – design medicines and nanostructures. Develop materials for electronics, photovoltaics and modern catalysts.
- Theoretical Methods in Chemistry – study molecules using computers, design new compounds and solve chemical problems. Learn computational chemistry and molecular modelling that open the door to work in laboratories and industry.
You learn from scientists and work on real research problems. You gain knowledge that opens the door to a good job or an academic career.
Graduation requirements
Chemistry – 1st cycle studies
In order to take the diploma examination, you have to:
- achieve the learning outcomes provided for in the curriculum,
- confirm the required level of a foreign language,
- receive a positive thesis grade.
You finish your studies with a diploma exam with at least a ‘satisfactory’ grade
As a graduate, you receive a diploma that confirms your qualifications.
Detailed information on the rules for awarding diplomas and the requirements for the diploma thesis can be found in the Rules and Regulations of Studies at the University of Silesia and the Diploma Award Regulations.
Chemistry – 2nd cycle studies
Your Master’s degree – your start!
To complete the 2nd cycle programme and receive a diploma, you must:
- obtain the knowledge and skills required in the study programme,
- confirm your knowledge of a foreign language,
- prepare and defend your diploma thesis.
After passing the diploma examination, you receive a diploma with the professional title of Master, which opens the way to employment or further education.
Detailed information on the rules for awarding diplomas and the requirements for the diploma thesis can be found in the Rules and Regulations of Studies at the University of Silesia and the Diploma Award Regulations.
Admission process
The admission process for studies at the University of Silesia is carried out via the Online Application System at irk.us.edu.pl (IRK).
Use IRK to enrol in your studies and find all the information you need. You will learn about the admission process, the deadlines, the enrolment fee, and all the documents you need to submit.
Questions? Feel free to write to the International Admissions Office or visit rekrutacja.us.edu.pl and irk.us.edu.pl.
Admission requirements
1st cycle studies
Admissions to university is determined by the results of the Matura exam. We take the written examination in the selected subjects. We take into account:
Mathematics | One of the subjects of your choice: biology, chemistry, physics / physics and astronomy, geography, computer science or mathematics | Modern foreign language |
weight = 60% | weight = 30% | weight = 10% |
- The result of an exam taken at the basic level is multiplied by a factor of 0.5, while the result at the extended level is multiplied by a factor of 1, and then by the subject weight.
- If a candidate took the same subject at both levels during the secondary school leaving examination, the result that is more advantageous for the candidate after applying the factor and subject weight will be taken into account.
- The same subject may be counted twice in the admission process if the candidate took it at two different levels: basic and extended. However, the result from the same level cannot be counted twice.
- The result of a bilingual exam in a modern foreign language will be converted into an extended-level result by multiplying it by 4/3. The maximum extended-level result cannot exceed 100% (if the calculated result is higher, it will be treated as 100%).
- If a candidate did not take a given subject during the secondary school leaving examination, they receive 0 points for that subject but may still take part in the admission process.
- Detailed rules for the admission of candidates holding the old secondary school leaving certificate are specified in § 14 of the resolution.
- Admission is based on the candidate’s position on the ranking list created according to the total number of points obtained. If the number of candidates does not exceed the admission limit, all candidates with a score higher than 0 will be admitted.
Candidates are required to submit an appropriate medical certificate confirming that there are no health contraindications to studying in this programme.
2nd cycle studies
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree, engineer’s degree, master’s degree, or a foreign diploma that allows them to pursue higher education in the country where it was issued.
How does the qualification process work? Admission is based on a ranking of grades from completed studies. The order of candidates is determined by the result (WK), calculated as follows:
WK = 3 x D + O
where:
- WK — candidate’s result,
- D — the diploma grade from a chemistry-related degree (if you did not complete such a programme, D = 0)
- O — the diploma grade from a degree in a field other than chemistry.
Candidates are required to submit an appropriate medical certificate confirming that there are no health contraindications to studying in this programme.
Point tresholds
We do not set minimum point thresholds for any field of study at the University of Silesia.
Committees create ranking lists during the admission process. Admission thresholds vary every year, as they depend on the number of candidates, their grades, and the applicable qualification rules
Additional criteria
To begin studies in this programme, you must provide a medical certificate. A doctor must confirm that there are no health contraindications for studying in this degree programme.
Fees
The fee for participating in the recruitment process for the degree programme in Chemistry is PLN 85.
Internships and practical training
Chemistry – 1st cycle studies
We know that theory is not enough. That is why, during your bachelor’s studies, you complete 90 hours of compulsory professional internship. During your internship, you work as a chemist and test your skills in industrial laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutes.
While studying, you can also choose additional learning opportunities. Paid internships give you a chance to gain valuable experience and earn money at the same time. Study visits allow you to see what work outside the university looks like. Workshops and training sessions help you develop practical skills.
Thanks to this, after graduating in Chemistry at University of Silesia in Katowice, you will have both knowledge and practical experience. Whether you want to work in a laboratory, in industry, or in science, the programme will prepare you well for your future career.
Chemistry – 2nd cycle studies
During your master’s studies, you focus mainly on science and research – professional placements are not compulsory.
Cooperation
During your studies, you benefit from cooperation between the programme and research institutions and universities in Poland and abroad.
The Forensic Chemistry major is realised in cooperation with Institute of Forensic Research. Thanks to this, you learn about the practical work of forensic experts and specialists. Thanks to this, you learn about the practical work of forensic experts and specialists.
You also have the opportunity to contact partner universities abroad, including in:
- Germany,
- Sweden,
- the United Kingdom,
- the Czech Republic,
- Romania,
- Italy,
International cooperation helps you gain new experience and become part of a global academic community.
Contact details
Dean’s office
Matters related to submitting documents and completing admission process, the study programme, class schedules, course registration, student ID cards, tuition fees, and problems with logging into USOSweb.
Education Department
tel. +48 32 359 18 10
tel. +48 32 359 18 80
tel. +48 32 359 16 22
e-mail: rekrutacja@us.edu.pl
Matters related to admission, problems with registration in the IRK system, and required documents.
International Admissions Office
tel. +48 32 359 22 72
tel. +48 32 359 22 73
e-mail: admission@us.edu.pl
Matters related to the admission of international applicants (candidates who do not hold Polish citizenship): the university application process, formalities concerning required educational documents (legalisation, apostille), certificates confirming admission eligibility, etc.
Faculty Admission Committee
You can find the contact details in the IRK system by selecting the programme you are interested in:
https://irk.us.edu.pl/en/.
Matters related to admission: qualification for studies, grade conversion in the IRK system, admission criteria, and required documents.
What makes us stand out?
01.
Flexibility
You create your own learning path by choosing from different types of classes, majors, academic supervisors, and courses that match your interests.
02.
Practical experience
We focus on practice and real-life skills. You can take part in internships, workshops, and classes led by experts. You will learn how the job market works and how research can be turned into real-world solutions.
03.
Development
You work on your own research projects with the support of experienced mentors. We also support student scientific clubs and international exchange opportunities through programs such as Erasmus+ and MOST Programme.
04.
Quality
We provide high-quality education confirmed by the accreditation of Polish Accreditation Committee. Classes are taught by highly qualified academic staff with recognised scientific achievements.
Twój profil po studiach
Career paths
After graduation, you can continue your education in master’s degree programmes in Chemistry or Micro- and Nanotechnology, and later pursue a PhD.
After graduation, you can:
- create new chemical compounds and work in a laboratory,
- analyse samples as an analytical chemist,
- test new medicines in pharmaceutical companies,
- control food quality in laboratories,
- start your own business and work independently.
Chemistry studies at University of Silesia in Katowice open many different career paths – you can choose the one that suits you best.
Your knowledge
Chemistry – 1st cycle studies
- After graduation, you understand chemistry and related sciences. You combine knowledge of the structure, properties, and reactivity of chemical elements and compounds.
- You understand and explain processes that take place in nature.
- You know and apply analytical, physical, organic, inorganic, and biological chemistry, as well as chemical technology.
- You carry out chemical analyses. You use both chemical and instrumental methods. You can operate laboratory equipment and measuring instruments, and you understand how they work.
- You identify and analyse chemical products. You know how they are produced in industry and how to work with them safely, following health and safety regulations.
- You use calculations, statistics, and digital tools to solve chemical problems and analyse research results.
- You apply mathematics and physics to describe and explain chemical phenomena.
Chemistry – 2nd cycle studies
- You deepen your knowledge of chemistry, stay up to date with new developments in the field, and understand how chemistry influences science and everyday life.
- You know modern measurement techniques used in chemical laboratories.
- You understand how X-ray diffraction and selected spectroscopy methods are used to study the structure of chemical compounds.
- You develop advanced knowledge in your chosen major.
- You know the mathematics needed to understand and model chemical processes of intermediate complexity.
- You can use cheminformatics, quantum chemistry methods, and computer software to solve typical chemical problems.
- You know health and safety regulations and can work safely in a laboratory.
Your skills
Chemistry – 1st cycle studies
- After graduation, you solve problems in chemistry and physics. You analyse results, draw conclusions, and present them clearly, also during discussions.
- You create chemical compounds, perform measurements, and analyse the composition of simple and complex samples. You work with both classical and modern research methods.
- You predict the properties of compounds and materials. You explain chemical reactions and processes that take place in living organisms.
- You describe crystal structures and recognise their symmetry using international notation systems.
- You use mathematics, statistics, and computer software to analyse data and present results in a clear way.
- You write reports and prepare presentations. You use specialist terminology, also in a foreign language at B2 level.
- You plan and carry out experiments independently or as part of a team. You work safely and follow the principles of good laboratory practice.
Chemistry – 2nd cycle studies
- You can solve chemical and physical problems, analyse results, and present them clearly using scientific language.
- You can synthesise chemical compounds in the laboratory, perform measurements, and determine the composition of substances.
- You can predict the properties of compounds and materials, and you understand chemical reactions and processes in living organisms.
- You understand crystal structures and can describe them using international symbols and tables.
- You can use mathematics, statistics, and computer-based chemistry methods to solve problems and visualise results.
- You can prepare reports, presentations, and popular science articles, and communicate in a foreign language at B2 level.
- You can plan and carry out experiments independently or as part of a team, following health and safety regulations and good laboratory practice.
Social skills
Chemistry – 1st cycle studies
- You critically assess your own knowledge. You know when to seek support from other specialists and how to combine knowledge from different fields to solve complex problems.
- You engage in social activities. You help create initiatives for your community and responsibly promote chemical knowledge and research results.
- You follow the principles of professional ethics. You respect the work of others and protect intellectual property.
Chemistry – 2nd cycle studies
- You can assess your own knowledge, recognise when it is worth consulting experts, and use an interdisciplinary approach to solving problems.
- You engage in social activities and promote science and chemistry-related topics in a responsible way.
- You understand the principles of professional ethics and respect intellectual property.
