Science with Foundation Year BSc (Hons) | University of Nottingham

Course overview

This course is now accepting applicants with the correct A level subjects.

Want to study a science degree, but you took the wrong A levels, or you took the correct A levels but have not met the grades for your desired subject? This course is designed to develop your skills, knowledge and understanding that you will need to progress onto one of our science undergraduate courses.

Our one-year foundation course prepares you for undergraduate study, giving you the subject-specific knowledge and skills you need to progress on to one of our science undergraduate courses.

After successfully meeting the progression criteria of the foundation year you will be guaranteed progression on to your chosen undergraduate degree.*

How you will learn

Teaching methods

Lab sessions
Lectures and workshops
Self-study
Tutorials
Seminars

How you will be assessed

Typically, examinations count for around 50% of the module mark and coursework contributes the other 50%. All teaching is carried out on University Park Campus by the same academic staff who teach on the main degree programmes.

Assessment methods

Coursework
Examinations
Formative assessments
Practical skills and lab reports
Presentation

Contact time and study hours

There are 17 to 21 hours per week of contact time with approximately one day a week of independent study. In addition to standard lecture and workshop classes, the contact time includes approximately three hours per week based in the lab and includes one-to-one tutorials, allowing your tutors to get to know you quickly.

Modules

4 modules

Foundation Year Chemistry

You will learn to use the periodic table to make predictions about elements, the basics of chemical bonding and the forces between molecules and their shapes. Experimental work will enhance understanding and skills development. You will learn quantitative aspects of chemistry based on laboratory activities, including appreciation of experimental error. In this module you will develop the knowledge and understanding of safe laboratory practice; familiarity with common techniques and equipment; an appreciation of physical, inorganic and organic chemistry; the need for careful recording of observation and measurements; an appreciation of sources of error; and conventional approaches to reporting experimental work.

40 credits.

Mathematics for Foundation Science

This module will provide you with the knowledge and competence of core mathematical topics, and experience of relevant quantitative aspects prior to embarking on a course in biological and chemical sciences. This module covers algebra and algebraic manipulation; linear algebra; functions and trigonometry; differential calculus; integral calculus; simple modelling; elementary probability; and statistics.

20 credits.

Foundations of Scientific Research

This module introduces students to how scientists conduct research and share their findings within scientific communities. They will also begin to understand how scientific research contributes to knowledge. Students will learn about different data collection methods used within different scientific disciplines and consider issues relating to sampling, adherence to ethical guidelines, and health and safety considerations.

This module also introduces students to the value of engaging in reflective practice.

Constructing Scientific Arguments

This module will engage students in exploring differing perspectives about a controversial socio-scientific issue. You will learn how to use information from multiple sources to provide evidence in support of claims and as backing for warrants within scientific arguments. You will also learn how to modify claims using qualifiers and rebuttals.

10 credits

2 modules

Foundation Biological Sciences

This module will provide you with an introduction to life at the molecular, cellular, physiological organismal, population and community levels and provide the background to enable you to enter a range of degree programmes in biological and environmental sciences. You will gain practical experience in labs. Practical work is a vital component of foundation science and students have the opportunity to develop various lab techniques.

40 credits.

Foundations of Human Biology

This module will provide you with an introduction to life at the molecular, cellular, physiological, and organismal levels and provide the background to enable you to enter degree programmes with a focus on human health. You will gain practical experience in labs. Practical work is a vital component of foundation science and students have the opportunity to develop various lab techniques.

40 credits.

Quick glance

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements listed apply to 2026 entry. This course is open to home applicants only.

A levels

BBB

28 points overall

A level and GCSE requirements

A levels

BBB / ABC

If you have studied subjects which would allow direct entry to a degree programme, your application will only be considered if your predicted grades are below those needed for direct entry on to the degree you would like to study.

GCSEs

Five GCSEs at 5 (B) or above, including maths, biology and chemistry (or double science; core and applied science; science and additional science). Plus English language 4 (C) or above.

GCSE requirements vary for progression on to specific science degrees taught at Nottingham:

Psychology and pharmacy require 5 (B) in English
Pharmacy and biochemistry require 6 in maths

IB requirements

IB score

28 points overall or 555 in 3 HL certificates

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:

Access to HE Diploma
Advanced Diploma
BTEC HND/HNC
BTEC Extended Diploma

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.

RQF BTEC Nationals

Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma DDM - Only science subjects considered.
Pearson BTEC National Diploma RQF DM plus B
Pearson BTEC National Extended Certificate RQF D plus BC

Access to HE Diploma

Access to HE Diploma to include 45 credits at level 3 including D21 M18 P6

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

We expect students to have an idea of the course they would like to progress on to before starting. You can progress onto a range of degrees, including:

Biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience courses (including zoology)
Sport and exercise science
Biomedical science
Biosciences degrees
Chemistry degrees (excluding chemistry and molecular physics)
Pharmacy
Pharmaceutical sciences
Pharmacology
Psychology
Cancer sciences
Natural sciences

Those interested in progressing on to pharmacy and dietetics courses are required to also pass an interview.

View the full list of course pass requirements.

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.

Study abroad

You may be able to undertake a study abroad or placement opportunity depending on the course you choose to progress to.

Disclaimer

Please be aware that study abroad, compulsory year abroad, optional placements/internships and integrated year in industry opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities or placement/industry hosts, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the university’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur.

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.

Additional costs

£5 to £10 in transport costs for the field trip.

£5 for printing a poster.

Scholarships and bursaries

The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help. For up to date information regarding tuition fees, visit our fees and finance pages.

Home students

Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary. 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.

Funding

Foundation years are covered by standard government student loans and will not need to be funded independently.

I owe my academic progression to all the science foundation staff as they equipped me with various skills which were proven to be more than valuable."

Nasia Kafa

Biology BSc

Careers overview

Please refer to the careers section on the course you wish to progress on to, for example, Biology, Pharmacology, Environmental Science.

Job prospects

Please refer to the careers section on the course you wish to progress on to, for example, Biology, Pharmacology, Environmental Science.

Careers advice

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 10 in The Graduate Market in 2013-2024, High Fliers Research).

Welcome to your campus

Located at Queen’s Medical Centre, one of the UK's largest and busiest hospitals, the Medical School offers an exceptional learning environment. You’ll have access to cutting-edge facilities and learn from leading clinicians and researchers, enjoying easy access to University Park for a full campus experience.

Science with Foundation Year - U6USCNCEY

Course overview

Teaching and learning

Modules

Core modules

4 modules

Foundation Year Chemistry

Mathematics for Foundation Science

Foundations of Scientific Research

Constructing Scientific Arguments

Optional modules

Entry requirements

4 years full-time

£9,535 per year

Careers

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