Ethnicity

Representation of Ethnic Groups in Chemistry and Physics

Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) groups generally under-perform in education. The Institute, in collaboration with the Royal Society of Chemistry, commissioned a study to look at the representation of the different ethnic groups in chemistry and physics along the various stages of the educational pipeline, into undergraduate studies. This revealed a complex picture of participation, with most ethnic groups being under-represented.

Key findings from the report:

• Picture of retention and attrition is complex
• Key points of attrition for Black Caribbean students: GCSE, A level and class of degree
• Black African, Pakistani and Bangladeshi students are less likely to achieve 5 or more GCSEs than their White counterparts
• Most ethnic groups (except Pakistani) are less inclined to study physics at degree level than their White counterparts
• Ethnic minority students tend to do less well in their undergraduate studies in terms of obtaining a first or upper second
• Ethnic minority students are less likely to study at doctorate level
• British Asian groups are more likely to study what are regarded as more vocational subjects
• Lack of role models
• Need to unpick socio-economic effects

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