Access course in Chemistry (SCQF Level 7)

University Of Aberdeen

Unit 1 – Introduction to Chemistry 20%

This unit will serve as a refresher for anyone who has had a break from study, or who wants a quick summary of important key concepts. The material covered will include: the language of chemistry, the structure of atoms and the periodic table, introductory ideas about bonding, chemical equations, and the mole concept and stoichiometry.

Unit 2 – Inorganic Chemistry 20%

This unit will build upon the concepts of unit 1, looking in more depth at some important chemistry concepts.
The topics covered are: electromagnetic radiation and atomic spectra, atomic orbitals, electronic configurations and the periodic table, and transition metals.

Unit 3 – Physical Chemistry 20%

Physical chemistry uses experimental observations and quantitative methods to explain our understanding of chemical reactions and processes.

The topics covered are: chemical equilibrium, reaction feasibility and energetics, kinetics.

Unit 4 – Organic Chemistry 20%

Organic chemistry is concerned with the structure, properties, and reactions of carbon-based molecules. This includes natural products and synthetic compounds such as those of importance to the pharmaceutical industry.

The topics covered are: molecular orbitals and their relevance to structure, bonding and reactivity; synthesis of organic compounds and common functional groups; stereochemistry and molecular structure; and experimental determination of structure.

Unit 5 – Chemistry in practice

The topics covered are: common chemical apparatus, skills involved in experimental work, stoichiometric calculations, gravimetric and volumetric analysis.

Note: This course does not have a practical laboratory component. This unit is intended to give an overview of some common laboratory techniques and methods of analysis

Each unit will have an online assessment to be completed once the material has been covered. Students on the course must pass each unit assessment.

The online tests will include a variety of question styles, such as multiple choice, typed-in answers and calculations, and uploading written or typed work.

Each of the five units will have an equal weighting and contribute to the overall final course grade.

As well as being able to demonstrate an understanding of the specific chemistry concepts in each other of the five-unit topics, the broader intended learning outcomes of the course are:

• Understand and apply scientific knowledge to new situations, interpret and analyse information to solve problems and draw valid conclusions supported by evidence.
• Draw on knowledge and understanding of chemistry to make accurate statements, describe complex information, provide detailed explanations and integrate knowledge.
• Express ideas clearly and logically in writing.

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