Chemistry National 5

Calendar iconStudy mode: You study outside of typical working hours, usually in the evenings.

Mortar board iconCourse type: National 5

Pen iconStart in: August

Computer and book iconLearning mode: You access classes and/or materials digitally.

Clock iconDuration: Part-Time: 1 year

Book and tick iconHow: You attend classes at scheduled times, shown on your timetable.

What is special about this course?

Chemists play a vital role in the production of everyday goods, and chemical research and development are essential for the introduction of new products.

This National 5 Chemistry course provides a strong introduction to key chemical concepts and processes, helping you build the knowledge needed for further study in science and related subjects. Through a combination of theory and investigative work, you'll explore chemical reactions, atomic structure, materials, fuels and modern chemical applications.

Along the way, you'll develop problem solving, analytical and scientific enquiry skills that are valued in areas such as healthcare, food production, manufacturing, engineering or environmental science.

Special Features

  • Provides a progression to Higher Chemistry and other Higher science subjects.
  • Develop problem solving and scientific investigation skills.
  • Study part-time alongside employment or another full-time course.
  • Recognised as a supporting qualification for teaching, health and social care, and many other further study options.

No formal entry requirements.

Course content includes:

Chemical changes and structure

  • rates of reaction; 
  • atomic structure and bonding related to 
    properties of materials; 
  • formulae and reacting quantities; acids and bases.

Nature's chemistry

  • homologous series; 
  • everyday consumer products; 
  • energy from fuels.

Chemistry in society

  • metals; 
  • plastics; 
  • fertilisers; 
  • nuclear chemistry; 
  • chemical analysis.

Skills, knowledge and understanding

How will I study my course?

  • Part Time
  • Evening
  • Online

You will study online through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) with support from your lecturer; however, you will be required to attend a prelim and a practical assignment. The SQA exam can be sat on campus or at another agreed centre closer to your home.

How long will my course last?

1 Year

Course cost: £352

    • UHI Moray

Start date

August

Fees

If you are studying part time and are on low income or in receipt of certain benefits your course fees may be covered by a fee waiver.

If you are not Ordinarily Resident in Scotland, you may need to pay course fees.

Please refer to our Fees and Funding section for more information.

Funding

Our Student Finance Advisers can advise you on all aspects of student funding. The support available depends upon your personal circumstances.
Please refer to our Fees and Funding section for more information.

Equipment

You will be required to purchase a National 5 Chemistry textbook (approx. £26) and a scientific calculator (approx. £10). If you are eligible for a bursary these costs will be covered.

What can I do on completion of my course?

Successful completion of this course provides a pathway to careers in a laboratory or in Food Manufacturing, Drinks Industry or the Textile Industry.

Alternatively, you can progress onto the following programmes: 

  • Any Science subject at Higher Level 
  • Environmental science and sustainability (SCQF Level 6)

Apply for Chemistry National 5

I want to start in 2026/27

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI Moray. UHI Moray operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.