Course Full Title: A Level Chemistry
Exam Board: Edexcel
Specification Code: 9CH0
Why study Chemistry?
A Level Chemistry is a highly regarded subject in the UK that opens doors to a wide range of exciting opportunities. It is an excellent choice for students interested in science, medicine, engineering, or any career that values logical thinking and problem-solving. Chemistry helps you understand the world at a fundamental level, from how medicines work in the body to how new materials are developed for technology and industry.
Studying Chemistry develops essential skills that go beyond the classroom. You will learn to think critically, analyse data, carry out practical experiments with precision, and apply mathematical techniques to real scientific problems. These transferable skills are valued by universities and employers alike, whether you choose to pursue a science-related career or another field entirely.
Chemistry is a core subject for progression into medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, and biomedical sciences. It also complements other A Levels such as Biology, Physics, and Mathematics, offering flexibility for future study. Even if you are unsure about your career path, as a facilitating subject Chemistry is highly regarded for entrance onto a wide variety of University courses, apprenticeships and careers.
Challenging but rewarding, A Level Chemistry encourages curiosity, develops resilience, and equips students with knowledge and skills that are relevant, practical, and in demand
What will I study over the two years?
A Level chemistry covers 19 discrete Chemistry topics across the two year A Level course covering the three main themes of Chemistry; Inorganic, Organic and Physical, these are:
Year 1
- Atomic Structure & the Periodic Table
- Bonding & Structure
- Redox I
- Inorganic Chemistry & the Periodic Table
- Formulae, Equations & Amounts of Substance
- Organic Chemistry I
- Modern Analytical Techniques I
- Energetics I
- Kinetics I
- Equilibrium I
Year 2
- Equilibrium II
- Acid-base Equilibria
- Energetics II
- Redox II
- Transition Metals
- Kinetics II
- Organic Chemistry II
- Organic Chemistry III
- Modern Analytical Techniques II
After studying these topics you will be in a position to specialise in a certain discipline should you wish to further your study beyond A Level.
What makes a good Chemistry student?
A good A Level Chemistry student is curious, motivated, and resilient when tackling challenging concepts. They combine strong mathematical skills with logical thinking to solve problems and apply knowledge in unfamiliar contexts. Precision and care in practical work are essential, alongside the ability to analyse data and evaluate evidence. Good organisation, independent study, and a willingness to ask questions ensure steady progress. Most importantly, they show determination and enthusiasm for understanding how chemistry explains the world and ensure that they understand the concepts fully to allow a deeper and deeper conceptual understanding to be gained. If you want to be able to explain the world around you and explain why matter behaves as it does A Level Chemistry is for you.
Where could A Level Chemistry take me?
An A Level in Chemistry opens the door to a wide range of exciting opportunities. It is essential for careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, and chemical engineering, while also supporting degrees in biochemistry, materials science, and environmental science. Beyond science, the analytical, problem-solving, and mathematical skills gained are highly valued in finance, law, and technology. Chemistry is a respected subject that keeps options open and leads to diverse future pathways.
How will I be assessed?
At the end of the two years of study you will sit three external exams worth 100% of the final grade. Throughout the course you will undertake a series of 16 core practical activities, leading to a practical endorsement alongside the final A Level grade achieved. This component does not count towards the final grade, however demonstrates to Universities and employers your practical abilities. The theory of these practical tasks are assessed within the exam papers, they form a major focus of Paper 3.
What are the entrance requirements?
- 2 x Grade 6 or above in Science
- 5 or more grades 5-9; including equivalents across at least 5 subjects
- Maths and English Language Grade 6 or above
- Average GCSE GRADE of at least 4.75 (average of ALL GCSE full courses taken)