Get a Master's degree in Applied Chemistry

Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Chemistry

Chemistry is at the heart of everything from medicine and materials to clean energy and sustainable production. When studying Applied Chemistry, you learn how to apply chemistry to design and prepare molecules, materials, and systems. The programme equips you with the skills to turn your chemical understanding into technologies that benefit society.

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MSc Eng in Applied Chemistry

Shaping society through chemistry – one molecule at a time

If you choose to study Applied Chemistry, you will deepen your chemistry knowledge and learn how fundamental chemical principles are translated into impactful materials, products, and technologies. The programme focuses on understanding and controlling chemical processes in detail and develops your competences to address complex chemical challenges across many application areas.

Throughout the programme, you study chemistry at the molecular and nanoscale level. You learn how the structure and reactivity of atoms and molecules determine the properties of materials and products, and how this knowledge can be used to design chemical systems. Teaching combines theory, laboratory work, and advanced computational methods, giving you both practical experience and strong analytical skills.

The programme is research-based and reflects the latest developments in chemistry. You are introduced to advanced experimental techniques, simulations, data-driven methods, and automation, which are increasingly important in modern chemical research. At the same time, you develop a strong chemical foundation that allows you to move across disciplines and apply your expertise in different fields.

See curriculum for Applied Chemistry

Specializations

As a student in the Applied Chemistry programme, you have a high degree of flexibility, allowing you to specialize in areas that match your academic interests and career ambitions.

Catalysis and Sustainable Chemistry

This specialization focuses on developing and understanding catalytic materials and reactions for efficient and sustainable chemistry. You work with catalysts and processes for energy conversion, emission control, and green chemistry.

Computational Chemistry and Atomic-level Analysis

This specialization centres on the physical principles governing chemical systems at the molecular level. You use computational methods, spectroscopy, thermodynamics, and kinetics to understand and predict molecular behaviour.

Macromolecular Chemistry and Materials

This specialization has a focus on the chemistry and engineering of synthetic and biological macromolecules. You study how molecular composition, structure, function, and interactions link to properties and material performance.

Synthesis and Medicinal Chemistry

The focus of this specialization is on designing and synthesizing molecules for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. You apply modern synthetic methods and study how molecular structure affects biological activity and performance.

Combine work with study!

You have the the opportunity to join an Industry Master of Science in all DTU's master's programmes.

Combining work and study, an industry master's programme is the ideal way to apply your academic knowledge in real-world settings and build a strong foundation for your future career.
Learn more about the Industry MSc

Future opportunities

A Master of Science (MSc) in Applied Chemistry provides you with a strong chemical foundation and the opportunity to specialize, making you an ideal candidate for a wide range of jobs where chemistry plays a central role.

Many graduates work in research and development. As a chemist or R&D engineer, you can contribute to the development of new medicines, healthcare products, and biological solutions at companies such as Novo Nordisk, Novonesis, Lundbeck, or Coloplast. Others choose roles within materials and industrial chemistry, working as materials specialists or development engineers at companies such as ROCKWOOL, Topsoe, or Hempel, where chemistry is used to design advanced materials, catalysts, and coatings.

You also have opportunities beyond classic laboratory roles. After you graduate, you can work with quality control, regulatory affairs, production, project management, and consultancy in both private companies and public authorities. Across these roles, there is a growing demand for chemists who combine experimental skills with data analysis, computational tools, and an understanding of sustainability.

Many Applied Chemistry graduates continue to a PhD at DTU, abroad, or at another Danish university. This gives you the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and help push the boundaries of chemical knowledge in both academia and industry.

Application and admission

Admission requirements

Learn more about the academic requirements and the selection criteria for this programme.

Prerequisites

How to apply

All you need to know about applying for admission to an MSc programme at DTU.

Application procedure

Any questions?

Study Guidance

Get help with questions regarding the study programmes - including course planning, credit transfer applications, exemption applications, and DTU’s rules and regulations.

International Admissions Office

For applicants with a bachelors degree from outside of Denmark. Get guidance on the application process.

International Student Services

Offers guidance to DTU students on exchange options and as well as administrative and cultural issues relating to being new in Denmark and new at DTU.

Head of Studies

Anders Riisager

Anders Riisager Professor Phone: +45 45252233

More opportunities at DTU

Honours Programmes

Get access to a particularly challenging course of studies with DTU's Honours Programmes.

Study abroad

Seize the opportunity to study overseas as part of your degree. Options range from doing a semester in Shanghai to following a set programme in Stockholm or spending your summer in Chicago. Anything is possible!

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Make a sustainable difference

With a degree from DTU you are prepared to make a sustainable difference. DTU Charter helps to ensure that.
DTU Charter

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