Undergraduate students in Clinical Skills lab C1A, University Park

Cancer Sciences BSc

Medical School and University Park Campus, Nottingham, UK

Qualification	Entry Requirements	Start Date	UCAS code	Duration	Fees
BSc Hons	ABB	September 2026	B131	3 years full-time	£9,535*

How to apply

Get in touch

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

Qualification	Entry Requirements	Start Date	UCAS code	Duration	Fees
BSc Hons	ABB	September 2026	B131	3 years full-time	£9,535*

How to apply

Get in touch

Course information

Are you an international student?

Qualification:
Bachelor of Science with Honours

Bachelor of Science with Honours
Start date:
September 2026

September 2026
IB score

30 points overall or 6,5,5 in three HL certificates

IB requirements

HL5, HL5 in biology or chemistry and a second science

IELTS

6.5 (no less than 6.0 in each element)

English language requirements

As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other English language qualifications. This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English. Check our English language policies and equivalencies for further details.

For presessional English or one-year foundation courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations.

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a Presessional English for Academic Purposes (PEAP) course. Our Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

High school qualifications

Check our country-specific information for guidance on qualifications from your country

A level

ABB

Required subjects
ABB / A*BC / AAC. Must include one of biology or chemistry and a second science subject from the following; Physics, Maths, Further Maths, Geography, Engineering, Psychology, Geology, Environmental Science or Statistics.

A pass is normally required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.

GCSEs
- Grade 4 (C) in English
- Grade 4 (C) in maths
Excluded subjects

General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies, Global Perspectives.

Additional entry requirements

Please note: Applicants whose backgrounds or personal circumstances have impacted their academic performance may receive a reduced offer. Please see our contextual admissions policy for more information.

Non-UK entry requirements
Alternative qualifications

We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.

Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A-levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma at DDD.
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Diploma at DD plus 1 A Level at B.
- RQF Level 3 BTEC Subsidiary Diploma at D plus 2 A Levels at BB. All BTEC's considered on case by case basis.
- Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 24 Level 3 graded credits at Distinction and 21 at Merit. Considered on a case by case basis.
This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the alternative qualifications page for more information.

Foundation progression options

Cancer Sciences is one of the progression pathways for our Science with a Foundation Year course.

In order to progress on to the course you will be required to achieve the following scores:
- 60% in either Foundation Biological Science or Foundation Chemistry
- 55% in English Language modules (if they are taken)
- 60% Overall average
Mature Students

At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.
A level

ABB

Required subjects
ABB / A*BC / AAC. Must include one of biology or chemistry and a second science subject from the following; Physics, Maths, Further Maths, Geography, Engineering, Psychology, Geology, Environmental Science or Statistics.

A pass is normally required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.

GCSEs
- Grade 4 (C) in English
- Grade 4 (C) in maths
Excluded subjects

General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies, Global Perspectives.

IB score

30 points overall or 6,5,5 in three HL certificates

IB requirements

HL5, HL5 in biology or chemistry and a second science

Additional entry requirements

Please note: Applicants whose backgrounds or personal circumstances have impacted their academic performance may receive a reduced offer. Please see our contextual admissions policy for more information.

UK entry requirements
Alternative qualifications

We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.

Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A-levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma at DDD.
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Diploma at DD plus 1 A Level at B.
- RQF Level 3 BTEC Subsidiary Diploma at D plus 2 A Levels at BB. All BTEC's considered on case by case basis.
- Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 24 Level 3 graded credits at Distinction and 21 at Merit. Considered on a case by case basis.
This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the alternative qualifications page for more information.

Contextual offers

We make contextual offers to students who may have experienced barriers that have restricted progress at school or college. Our standard contextual offer is usually one grade lower than the advertised entry requirements, and our enhanced contextual offer is usually two grades lower than the advertised entry requirements. To qualify for a contextual offer, you must have Home/UK fee status and meet specific criteria – check if you’re eligible.

Foundation progression options

Cancer Sciences is one of the progression pathways for our Science with a Foundation Year course.

In order to progress on to the course you will be required to achieve the following scores:
- 60% in either Foundation Biological Science or Foundation Chemistry
- 55% in English Language modules (if they are taken)
- 60% Overall average
Mature Students

At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.
UCAS Code:
B131

B131
Placements

While there are no set placements on this course, there is an opportunity for you to apply for one of our studentships. These studentships allow you to join research labs during the summer vacation to gain real hands-on experience of research work in industry.

Placements

While there are no set placements on this course, there is an opportunity for you to apply for one of our studentships. These studentships allow you to join research labs during the summer vacation to gain real hands-on experience of research work in industry.
*For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

Additional costs

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses such as travel and accommodation.

You should be able to access most of the books you'll need for the course through our libraries, however you may wish to buy your own copies or get more specific titles which may cost up to £80 each.

Scholarships and bursaries

International students

We offer a range of international undergraduate scholarships for high-achieving international scholars who can put their Nottingham degree to great use in their careers.

Tuition fees 2026/27 (UK undergraduate students)

This is the UK undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 25/26. It may increase for the academic year 26/27 and we will update our information once we have received confirmation of the fee from the UK Government.

*For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

Additional costs

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses such as travel and accommodation.

You should be able to access most of the books you'll need for the course through our libraries, however you may wish to buy your own copies or get more specific titles which may cost up to £80 each.

Scholarships and bursaries

Home students*

Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary, worth up to £1,000 a year. Full details can be found on our financial support pages.

* A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.

Course overview

Are you passionate about ground-breaking cancer research and the latest developments in cancer sciences? This internationally supported and research-extensive course is designed to give you clinical understanding of the causes of cancer, the molecular basis of new and established cancer treatments, as well as its translation into therapeutics and drug development. You’ll train across areas including cell and molecular biology, immunology, and human physiology.

You'll be prepared for a career in cancer-related areas, including research in academia or industry, clinical trials management, science communication and graduate entry medicine, as well as a range of other graduate level careers.

Indicative modules

Year one

Year two

Year three

Mandatory

Year 1

Human Cellular and Molecular Biology

Mandatory

Year 1

Human Physiology and Anatomy

Mandatory

Year 1

Genetics, Molecular Evolution and Diversity

Mandatory

Year 1

Causes and consequences of cancer

Mandatory

Year 1

Hallmarks of Cancer

Optional

Year 1

Introduction to Human Nutrition and Metabolism

Optional

Year 1

Chemistry of Life

Mandatory

Year 2

Angiogenesis and Tumour-Host Interactions

Mandatory

Year 2

Cancer Cell Genetics

Mandatory

Year 2

Colorectal Cancer and Ovarian Cancer

Mandatory

Year 2

Epidemiology of Cancer and Population Genetics

Mandatory

Year 2

Lung Cancer, Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer

Mandatory

Year 2

Patient-centred Library Project

Mandatory

Year 3

Practical Project

Optional

Year 3

Cancer Biology and Molecular Therapeutics

Optional

Year 3

Cancer Immunology and Novel Therapies

Optional

Year 3

Paediatric Cancer

Optional

Year 3

Tumour Microenvironment

Optional

Year 3

Advanced Cancer Models and Approaches in Preclinical Research

About modules

The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer, but is not intended to be construed or relied on as a definitive list of what might be available in any given year. This content was last updated on Wednesday 16 April 2025. Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.

Angiogenesis and Tumour-Host Interactions Cancer Cell Genetics Colorectal Cancer and Ovarian Cancer Epidemiology of Cancer and Population Genetics Lung Cancer, Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer Patient-centred Library Project

This module looks at angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, and how the blood supply and immune system interact when there is a tumour present. You’ll examine the process of neo-angiogenesis in tumour biology and the approaches that have been used to target this process. You’ll study how cancers interact with their host, co-opt and corrupt normal cell processes, and evade detection by the immune system.

Understand what causes genetic changes in cancer cells and the evolution of the cancer cell genome during cancer progression. This module will examine the tools that are used to study the cancer cell genome, epigenome, and transcriptome and how these tools can guide precision medicine.

This module examines how DNA damage can be repaired and the importance of this in tumorigenesis. You’ll also examine cancer progression, invasion and metastasis with colorectal cancer as a focus of study. As well as drug resistance with ovarian cancer as a focus of study.

This module looks at the ways we study the incidence of cancer in specific populations and areas, and how we determine the causes and risk factors associated with cancer. You’ll explore the global cancer burden and the regional variations in cancer incidence and cancer risk factors. As well as the methods used to address cancer prevention, and the importance of public health policy in cancer prevention.

This module studies three of the most common cancers. You’ll examine tobacco-induced mutations in the lung and the role of oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes in this disease.

You will gain an understanding of growth factor signalling in breast cancer, treatment and the evolution of drug resistance and examine the importance of hormones and the role of oestrogen and the use of anti-oestrogens. All the while comparing breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Find out what happens to someone when they get cancer, the journey they go through, and what doctors, nurses, scientists and other health care professionals do to treat the patient.

Practical Project Cancer Biology and Molecular Therapeutics Cancer Immunology and Novel Therapies Paediatric Cancer Tumour Microenvironment Advanced Cancer Models and Approaches in Preclinical Research

This module provides you with hands-on experience of research in cancer sciences and develops the practical skills required to conduct a research project. You’ll design, plan, and perform a research project under the guidance of an academic supervisor. As part of the project, you will:

read and critically analyse scientific literature
collect, analyse, and interpret data of many different types including in some cases bioinformatic data or other types of non-laboratory data
write a dissertation based on your reading of the literature and the data that you have collected and/or analysed
produce a poster that summarises the results of your work and present in a conference-type setting

Building on the skills you gained in Year two, this module continues to analyse cancer biology but in the context of molecular therapeutics. You’ll do this by examining emerging research, in solid tumours and also in blood cancers, from diverse areas such as DNA repair, cell cycle control, growth factor signaling, hypoxia, apoptotic and autophagic mechanisms, epigenetic mechanisms, cancer stem cell properties, bioelectrical signalling. Therapeutics currently used in the clinic as well as novel therapeutics being developed pre-clinically will be a particular focus.

Students who choose this module will receive a thorough grounding in the foundations of immunology pertaining to T-cell responses. The essential models of T-cell activation will be taught with key lectures on dendritic cells, T-cell responses to infectious (pathogens) and sterile antigens (ie cancer), and immune escape. These form the foundations of understanding later lectures on cutting edge immunotherapies including immune checkpoint blockade and CAR-T therapies. This module’s teaching team comprises research specialist scientists and consultant oncologists.

This module considers:

The spectrum of cancers that occur in childhood and how types of cancer and drivers are different to adult cancers
Current treatments and outcomes for a range of paediatric cancers
The principles behind chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery in childhood cancer
How improved understanding of the underlying biology is driving novel treatment strategies
An in-depth consideration of preclinical approaches to developing novel treatment strategies
Issues with translating findings in the laboratory to clinical trials and finally standard of care
The broader effects of paediatric cancer on families and independent living for survivors

A key objective will be to understand that the consequences of treatment are lifelong for survivors.

This module explores the tumour microenvironment. You’ll examine the components of the tumour microenvironment that influence cancer cell behaviours (proliferation, invasiveness, drug resistance), the mechanisms underlying these influences, and opportunities for new drug treatments.

This module considers advanced methodologies, approaches, and technologies at the forefront of current cancer research including:

Innovative technologies
Discovery biology (phenotype analysis) - genetic screening using CRISPR, shRNA, and siRNA
Transcriptomics - RNA seq, spatial transcriptomics, and single cell sequencing
Epigenomics - ChIP seq, RIME, Proteomics, Metabolomics including spatial metabolomics
Artificial Intelligence/imaging
Databases/platforms and their use.In vivo tumour models: transgenesis and in vivo assays (intra-spleen injections, tail vein injections, orthotopic models, subcutaneous tumour models, and other approaches that model primary tumour growth and metastasis)
3D in vitro tissue culture approaches: organoids, patient tissue explants, and tumour spheroids
Bioengineering in 3D cancer models and description of synthetic niches mimicking the tumour microenvironment
Drug screening using in vitro models and consideration of pharmacokinetics (including for drug-resistant cells)
Translation of new models into the clinic and in-depth consideration of preclinical approaches in the development of novel treatment strategies
Phase I and Phase II clinical trials

Teaching will be delivered in the Medical School and the Biodiscovery Institute, and at other sites on the University Park campus, by both clinical and academic staff, and will follow a normal university academic year.

Students will be taught using a diverse range of teaching and learning methods, including:

Case-based learning
eLearning
Lab sessions
Lectures
Practical classes
Problem-based learning
Self-study
Seminars
Small group learning
Tutorials
Workshops

Students will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the programme. The team includes senior academics, junior academics, demonstrators, and technical officers. Postgraduate research students may also contribute to the teaching of tutorials under the supervision of a module leader.

Assessment methods

Case studies
Coursework
Dissertation
Examinations
Lab reports
Literature review
Portfolio (written/digital)
Poster presentation
Practical write-ups
Presentation

You'll have around 14-18 contact hours per week, usually consisting of lectures, workshops, practical sessions, and small group tutorials. Some modules include podcasts and other online teaching materials such as preparatory videos and animations, although over 95% of teaching is delivered in person.

You're expected to spend around 20 to 30 hours per week on self-study.

Class sizes are two to three for personal tutorials, around 20 to 60 for seminars and workshops, and between 30 and 300 for lectures depending on the module

Studying Cancer Sciences at Nottingham gives you the perfect grounding to pursue further research through studying a masters or a PhD.

The course also provides you with broader knowledge of biochemistry, immunology, genetics, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and more. These skills could lead you into jobs in biotechnology, pharmaceutical industries, and other biomedical areas.

Average starting salary and career progression

96.5% of undergraduates from the School of Medicine secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual starting salary for these graduates was £35,089.

HESA Graduate Outcomes (2017- 2021 cohorts). The Graduate Outcomes % is calculated using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.

Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.

Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.

Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.

The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2020, High Fliers Research).

Where you'll learn - Queen's Medical Centre

Our Medical School is based in Queen’s Medical Centre, one of the UK’s largest hospitals. There are dedicated clinical skills facilities including a dissection suite and teaching laboratories for medicine and healthcare students.

Undergraduate students enjoying Highfields Park and lake

I wanted to come here because this was the first course of its kind. Since our first lecture, it’s been so focused and we’re learning so much about cancer. The foundation that Nottingham provide to go into cancer research is really good. They’re giving us all of the knowledge we need for the future. "

Aruba Farooq

Cancer Sciences student

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Help and support

If you’re looking for more information, please head to our help and support hub, where you can find frequently asked questions or details of how to make an enquiry.

Cancer Sciences BSc

English language requirements

Alternative qualifications

Foundation progression options

Mature Students

Visa restrictions

Alternative qualifications

Contextual offers

Foundation progression options

Mature Students

Placements

Placements

Additional costs

Scholarships and bursaries

Tuition fees 2026/27 (UK undergraduate students)

Additional costs

Scholarships and bursaries

Course overview

Course overview

Why choose this course?

Choosing the BSc or the MSci