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Natural Sciences with International Study - U7UNSCIS
MSci Hons UCAS Code
Course overview
Natural sciences is a degree programme that allows you to study more than one science subject for the duration of your degree. In your first year, you will study three subjects, building a strong foundation and experiencing what these are like at university, before selecting the two that most interest you to continue to degree level. Our flexible structure allows you to develop core knowledge and skills in each of your subjects while exploring your interests, preparing you for further study or careers in those fields.
Global challenges like energy, sustainability, and health require solutions that go beyond a single discipline. There is a growing demand for individuals who can integrate knowledge across fields, take a broader perspective, and bridge disciplinary gaps. Our core modules are designed to cultivate these abilities, learning to approach problems from multiple angles, connect ideas, and communicate effectively across disciplines. This equips you with the skills needed to come up with innovative solutions to complex problems, making you highly attractive to employers.
Course overview
Natural sciences is a degree programme that allows you to study more than one science subject for the duration of your degree. In your first year, you will study three subjects, building a strong foundation and experiencing what these are like at university, before selecting the two that most interest you to continue to degree level. Our flexible structure allows you to develop core knowledge and skills in each of your subjects while exploring your interests, preparing you for further study or careers in those fields.
Global challenges like energy, sustainability, and health require solutions that go beyond a single discipline. There is a growing demand for individuals who can integrate knowledge across fields, take a broader perspective, and bridge disciplinary gaps. Our core modules are designed to cultivate these abilities, learning to approach problems from multiple angles, connect ideas, and communicate effectively across disciplines. This equips you with the skills needed to come up with innovative solutions to complex problems, making you highly attractive to employers.
Find out more about the subjects you can study.
The MSci with International Study is a five-year degree where you spend your third year studying at one of our partner institutions overseas getting a broader perspective of the subjects that you study. You will develop key skills such as communication, confidence, language and independence. All of these are extremely sought after by employers.
The MSci degree adds a further year of advanced study focusing on one subject in your final year. This is designed to enhance your research, analytical and project management skills.
Why choose this course?
- Tailor your degree - flexibility to choose subjects and modules that match your academic interests and career goals.
- Enhance your degree – Nottingham provides a range of opportunities to enrich your studies like studying abroad, work placements, or a year in computer science to expand your skills and boost your employability.
- Become an interdisciplinary scientist - Natural Sciences modules enhance your interdisciplinarity while strengthening key skills like communication, teamwork, and problem solving, preparing you to tackle complex challenges and excel in diverse fields.
- Broad horizons – Natural Sciences graduates possess strong knowledge, practical skills, technical proficiency, and adaptability, preparing them for a range of careers in clinical science, environmental fields, pharmaceuticals, energy, and more.
- Strong community – connect with students across years and the alumni network. Actively engage in the course community through roles in representation, mentoring, and the student society, while gaining valuable skills and experience.
- Degree quality – accredited by the Society for Natural Sciences; recognised as ‘offering outstanding interdisciplinary science education’.
- Research-led teaching - Nottingham’s research beacons use interdisciplinary approaches to tackle global challenges. This research directly informs your studies, with academics bringing the latest developments into the classroom.
What you will study
You will study modules from each of the subjects in their chosen stream, gaining comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge. You will learn alongside students from single-subject degrees, so the quality of the teaching and the depth of study is the same, but you have a broader scope across multiple disciplines
Course-specific modules from the first to the third year are designed to foster a strong cohort identity and guide your academic development, encouraging you to understand theories and ideas from different areas of science and explore how they work together. A highlight of the course is the synoptic project, where you work on a collaborative group project with students from other streams. You will bring your individual expertise to the project and find new ways to apply the knowledge from your learning in previous years.
International study
On this course, subject to you meeting the relevant requirements, your third academic year will be spent studying abroad at one of our partner institutions. Destinations could include:
- Australia
- Hong Kong (teaching is in English)
- Ireland
- Netherlands (teaching is in English)
- New Zealand
- Singapore (teaching is in English)
- South Korea (teaching is in English)
- Sweden (teaching is in English)
- Switzerland (teaching is in English)
- USA
Benefits of studying abroad
- Explore a new culture
- Study specialisms not available at Nottingham including marine conservation, desert biology and plasma physics
- A reduced tuition fee for the time you are abroad
- Improve your communication skills, confidence and independence
This is an additional year between the second and third years of your course on a pass/fail basis, where the marks obtained do not count towards your final mark.
Careers
You will graduate with the knowledge and technical skills to take a broad scientific approach to help tackle today's complex problems. During the masters year you gain specialist experience in a professional research environment through an independent research project. This is good preparation for research job roles within industry, or if you are considering a PhD.
Important information
This online prospectus has been drafted in advance of the academic year to which it applies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content) are likely to occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for the course where there has been an interval between you reading this website and applying.
Teaching and learning
How you will learn
You will be taught through diverse methods, with different approaches used to promote deep learning and help develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The majority of teaching is face-to-face.
Teaching methods
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Problem classes
- Workshops
- Computer labs
- Laboratory sessions
- Field work
- Independent study
Teaching is delivered through a mix of in-person and online methods. The majority of your teaching will be in-person.
How you will be assessed
Modules are assessed through coursework, exams, or a combination of both, varying by module and year. Assessments are designed to test your understanding and ensure you have met the learning outcomes but also to enhance your learning and develop a wide range of transferable skills.
Assessment methods
- Problem sheets
- Essays
- Group project
- Written exam
- Research project
- Oral presentation
- Practical reports
- Poster
Contact time and study hours
You'll study 120 credits a year, typically through 10, 20 or 40 credit modules. One credit equates to approximately 10 hours of work split between formal contact time, self-study, revision and assessment.
The number of formal contact hours varies depending on the subjects you are studying, but you will typically spend between 18 and 23 hours in your first year in the following classes:
- 10 to 12 hours per week of lectures
- two hours per week of skills workshops
- three hours per week in problem classes or workshops (subject dependent)
- four to eight hours per week in laboratory classes/field work (subject dependent)
- one to two hours per week in tutorials (subject dependent)
There are additional study group sessions which are optional, but provide some structure to learning outside of formal classes, and the remainder of your time is spent on independent study.
Modules
Subject streams
Year one
You will study equal amounts of three subjects from your chosen stream gaining fundamental understanding of these disciplines alongside relevant practical and academic skills. The majority of modules you will take are compulsory but there are some specialisms and limited optional choice in some subjects.
Alongside your academic study, you take the Academic and Transferable Skills Portfolio to help you to transition to university life and develop the skills you need to be successful in your studies.
Find out more about what you can study in each of the subjects.
You will choose your stream in late August following confirmation of your place. This choice is flexible and you can change stream any time up to the end of the first week of study providing you meet stream requirements. Below is a list of streams and their requirements.
| Subject streams | Required A level subjects | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology | Chemistry | Maths | Physics | Other science | |
| Archaeology-Biology-Chemistry | Yes | Yes | |||
| Archaeology-Biology-Earth Science | Yes | Yes | |||
| Archaeology-Earth Science-Chemistry | Yes | Yes | |||
| Biology-Archaeology-Ecosystems and Environment | Yes | Yes | |||
| Biology-Chemistry-Mathematics | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| Biology-Physics-Mathematics | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| Cancer Sciences-Biology-Chemistry | Yes | Yes | |||
| Cancer Sciences-Biology-Psychology | Yes | Yes | |||
| Chemistry-Archaeology-Ecosystems and Environment | Yes | Yes | |||
| Chemistry-Earth Science-Mathematics | Yes | Yes | |||
| Chemistry-Physics-Mathematics | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
| Ecosystems and Environment-Earth Science-Archaeology | 2* | ||||
| Earth Science-Ecosystem and Environment-Biology | Yes | Yes | |||
| Ecosystem and Environment-Earth Science-Chemistry | Yes | Yes | |||
| Ecosystem and Environment-Biology-Chemistry | Yes | Yes | |||
| Earth Science-Biology-Chemistry | Yes | Yes | |||
| Earth Science-Biology-Mathematics | Yes | Yes | |||
| Mathematics-Psychology-Chemistry | Yes | Yes | |||
| Physics-Earth Science-Mathematics | Yes | Yes | |||
| Physics-Psychology-Mathematics | Yes | Yes | |||
| Psychology-Biology-Chemistry | Yes | Yes | |||
| Psychology-Biology-Mathematics | Yes | Yes | |||
Other sciences includes biology, chemistry, environmental science/studies, geography, geology, maths, physics, psychology.
Subject streams
Year two
You choose any two of your first-year subjects to study in greater depth.
In many subjects there are opportunities to direct your study to the areas that interest you through specialisms and optional modules while still building a solid core of knowledge and practical skills required for later years.
Alongside your subjects, you take a 20-credit module called Science and Society: Data and Bias which examines how social and cultural factors influence scientific research and knowledge, highlighting how biases within the research process impact both scientific discoveries and the way society interprets them.
During the second year you will apply to potential host universities for your international study year. The university will support you in this.
Find out more about what you can study in each of the subjects.
Subject streams
Year three
You will spend the year overseas at one of our partner institutions. This will be an additional year of study which allows you to gain a different perspective of your studies while experiencing life and studying in another country.
You are able to explore specialisms in your chosen subjects which are not available at Nottingham to gain a broader understanding which will complement your studies when you return.
The number of modules you study during your year abroad will depend on the institution you will be studying at. You will agree a programme of study with the Director of Natural Sciences prior to going abroad.
Placements are organised through the competitive university-wide programme which includes partners in the USA, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Mexico and Hong Kong.
You will return to complete your fourth and fifth year at Nottingham before graduating with an MSci Natural Sciences with International Study.
Subject streams
Year four
On return to Nottingham, you continue studying your two chosen subjects at a more advanced level. With increased flexibility through optional modules, you can explore your personal interests and specialise further in each subject to tailor the degree towards what you want to do next. The emphasis of your study will shift towards independence and being able to apply what you have learned in previous years in a range of theoretical and practical settings.
Alongside subject content you take the 20-credit synoptic project that fosters interdisciplinarity by connecting concepts across various scientific disciplines through a collaborative group project.
Find out more about what you can study in each of the subjects.
Subject streams
Year five
During your final year you will complete a substantial research project within your main subject. The project is an opportunity to consolidate learning from previous years and apply that knowledge in a world-class research environment with the support of university staff and provides solid grounding for a research career or PhD.
Alongside your project you take taught modules which complement your project, develop your professional research skills and explore subjects in more depth. There is flexibility for the project and/or the taught modules to focus on a single subject or to be more interdisciplinary in nature.
Find out more about what you can study in each of the subjects.
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 LASTMODDATE. Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.
Select student type
Entry requirements
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, details for 2027 entry will be updated soon.
A levels
A*AA
IB
36-34 points overall
A level and GCSE requirements
A levels
A*AA
or
Alternative offer AAA including an A in EPQ or Core Maths.
Applicants receiving an alternative offer as a result of studying a project-based qualification, will be given both the Standard and Alternative Offers.
Required subjects
To include at least two sciences, usually from biology, chemistry, maths or physics but the specific combination of subjects required depends on your chosen stream (see year one for full list of required subjects).
If you would like to study a stream requiring mathematics, a grade A is required in A level mathematics/further mathematics.
A pass is normally required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.
Excluded subjects
General studies, critical thinking, CIE global perspectives, CIE thinking skills and citizenship studies are not accepted
GCSEs
GCSE English and mathematics C/4 required
IB requirements
IB score
IB Diploma 36 points overall or IB Higher Level Certificates 7,6,6. Alternatively IB Diploma 34 points overall plus A in the Extended Essay or IB Higher Level Certificates 6,6,6 plus A in the Extended Essay.
IB requirements
A minimum of Higher Level grade 6 in two of biology, chemistry, mathematics analysis and approaches, mathematics applications and interpretations, physics, psychology, geography and environmental systems and societies.
The specific combination of subject required depends on your chosen stream – see year one for a full list of required subjects by stream.
If you would like to study a stream requiring mathematics, Higher Level grade 6 in Mathematics Analysis and Approaches is required.
Higher Level Mathematics Applications and Interpretations is not acceptable in lieu of an A level mathematics requirement, but is permitted as a science subject for streams where mathematics is not required.
Additional Qualifications Offer Reduction Scheme
Applicants to this course may be eligible for our Additional Qualifications Offer Reduction Scheme. If you achieve a grade A in an EPQ, Core Maths*, IB Extended Essay or additional AS level qualification* then you will receive a one grade reduced offer for this course.
Please note that if you qualify for an enhanced contextual offer or receive an alternative offer based on taking four A levels, your additional qualification will not be taken into consideration as we are unable to make any further adjustments to your offer.
*Additional eligibility requirements apply. View further details on this scheme.
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
All applications are assessed on an individual basis to ensure sufficient science has been studied. We will consider the following:
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma D*DD
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Diploma D*D plus A level grade A
- RRQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate grade D plus A level grades A*A
Acceptable combinations of qualifications will depend on the science content of the BTEC qualification and which A levels are being studied.
Access to HE Diploma
All applications are assessed on an individual basis to ensure sufficient science has been studied. We will consider the following:
Access to HE Diploma 42 graded Level 3 credits at Distinction and 3 graded Level 3 credits at Merit including acceptable science credits
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
If you are a Home applicant and do not meet the entry requirements for direct entry to this course, you may be interested in researching our Science with Foundation Year BSc or Science with Foundation Year MSci course. Students successfully completing and meeting the specific progression requirements of the Science with a Foundation Year course are guaranteed progression on to a selection of undergraduate courses. Please note progression to some courses may require meeting additional criteria such as a successful interview.
You can view all pathways and progression criteria in our progression table.
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.
Notes for applicants
Course transfers
You can transfer between any of the following Natural Sciences programmes within the first two years of the course, providing you meet any additional requirements for those programmes:
- BSc or MSci programmes
- International study programmes
- Placement year programmes
- Year in Computer Science programme (BSc only)
We recommend that students considering either the Placement Year or the Year in Computer Science programmes apply for the International Study programme, as this matches the duration of the programme you will study.
5 years full-time
Alternative opportunities
Placement year
Natural Sciences students have the option to transfer to a named ‘Natural Sciences with Placement Year’ programme in their second year.
A placement provides a unique opportunity to put theory into practice, gain practical experience and build further skills and competencies that will put you a step ahead on the graduate career ladder.
Students looking for placements are provided with support through the Careers and Employability Service and a few specialist teams in specific subject areas. The university continues to support students while they are on their placement and they will be visited by a placement tutor during the year.
Previous students have spent time working for companies including:
- KPMG
- RSPB
- Rolls Royce
- GSK
- Johnson & Johnson
Students who successfully complete their placement and reflective report are awarded the degree BSc Natural Sciences with placement year. It will be a four-year programme with the placement in your penultimate year.
£10,050 per year
Tuition fees
2027/28 (UK undergraduate students)
This is the UK undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 27/28. It may increase for the academic year 28/29 and we will update our information once we have received confirmation of the fee.
For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), please visit our fees page.
Additional costs
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses.
Printing
Due to our commitment to sustainability, we don't print lecture notes but these are available digitally.
Books
You will be able to access all of the books you’ll need through our libraries, but you may wish to purchase your own copies of books you use often. If you do most books cost around £20 to £50.
Equipment
If your subject stream requires you to work in the laboratory (for example, Biology and Chemistry), your tuition fees will cover the cost of a protective lab coat and safety goggles. if you lose these, you are responsible for the cost of replacing them (around £25).
While the calculator you used for your former study is usually sufficient some students will choose to purchase a new calculator which will cost around £10.
Students may want to purchase a Molecular Model Kit to help with visualising molecules in chemistry these cost £20.
Personal laptops are not compulsory as we have computer labs that are open 24 hours a day but you may want to consider one if you wish to work at home. Find out more about IT equipment.
Field trips
Depending on which subjects you choose there are optional field modules in Earth Science and Ecosystems and Environment which may incur a cost. These range from £30 to 50 for UK-based day trips to as much as £400 for overseas residential trips. A full list of approximate expected prices for is available at the start of each year.
Studying abroad
If you have the option to study abroad, you need to consider the travel and living costs associated with your country of choice. This may include visa costs and medical insurance.
Other costs
Students will be responsible for the cost of hire of their gown for graduation (around £50) and may need to pay for additional guest tickets.
In addition there may be costs issued by the university for replacement student ID cards, additional transcripts or certification letters, reassessments and library fines.
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.
Entry requirements
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, details for 2027 entry will be updated soon.
IB
36-34 points overall
A levels
A*AA
IB requirements
IB score
IB Diploma 36 points overall or IB Higher Level Certificates 7,6,6. Alternatively IB Diploma 34 points overall plus A in the Extended Essay or IB Higher Level Certificates 6,6,6 plus A in the Extended Essay.
IB requirements
A minimum of Higher Level grade 6 in two of biology, chemistry, mathematics analysis and approaches, mathematics applications and interpretations, physics, psychology, geography and environmental systems and societies.
The specific combination of subject required depends on your chosen stream – see year one for a full list of required subjects by stream.
If you would like to study a stream requiring mathematics, Higher Level grade 6 in Mathematics Analysis and Approaches is required.
Higher Level Mathematics Applications and Interpretations is not acceptable in lieu of an A level mathematics requirement, but is permitted as a science subject for streams where mathematics is not required.
A level and GCSE requirements
A levels
A*AA
or
Alternative offer AAA including an A in EPQ or Core Maths.
Applicants receiving an alternative offer as a result of studying a project-based qualification, will be given both the Standard and Alternative Offers.
Required subjects
To include at least two sciences, usually from biology, chemistry, maths or physics but the specific combination of subjects required depends on your chosen stream (see year one for full list of required subjects).
If you would like to study a stream requiring mathematics, a grade A is required in A level mathematics/further mathematics.
A pass is normally required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.
Excluded subjects
General studies, critical thinking, CIE global perspectives, CIE thinking skills and citizenship studies are not accepted
GCSEs
GCSE English and mathematics C/4 required
Additional Qualifications Offer Reduction Scheme
Applicants to this course may be eligible for our Additional Qualifications Offer Reduction Scheme. If you achieve a grade A in an EPQ, Core Maths*, IB Extended Essay or additional AS level qualification* then you will receive a one grade reduced offer for this course.
Please note that if you qualify for an enhanced contextual offer or receive an alternative offer based on taking four A levels, your additional qualification will not be taken into consideration as we are unable to make any further adjustments to your offer.
*Additional eligibility requirements apply. View further details on this scheme.
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
All applications are assessed on an individual basis to ensure sufficient science has been studied. We will consider the following:
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma D*DD
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Diploma D*D plus A level grade A
- RRQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate grade D plus A level grades A*A
Acceptable combinations of qualifications will depend on the science content of the BTEC qualification and which A levels are being studied.
Access to HE Diploma
All applications are assessed on an individual basis to ensure sufficient science has been studied. We will consider the following:
Access to HE Diploma 42 graded Level 3 credits at Distinction and 3 graded Level 3 credits at Merit including acceptable science credits
IELTS/English requirements
IELTS
6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any 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.
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.
Foundation progression options
If you don't meet our entry requirements there is the option to study the science foundation programme. You may have the opportunity to progress onto the BSc programme, subject to your performance on the foundation programme. There is a course for UK students and one for EU/international students.
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.
Notes for applicants
Course transfers
You can transfer between any of the following Natural Sciences programmes within the first two years of the course, providing you meet any additional requirements for those programmes:
- BSc or MSci programmes
- International study programmes
- Placement year programmes
- Year in Computer Science programme (BSc only)
We recommend that students considering either the Placement Year or the Year in Computer Science programmes apply for the International Study programme, as this matches the duration of the programme you will study.
5 years full-time
Alternative opportunities
Placement year
Natural Sciences students have the option to transfer to a named ‘Natural Sciences with Placement Year’ programme in their second year.
A placement provides a unique opportunity to put theory into practice, gain practical experience and build further skills and competencies that will put you a step ahead on the graduate career ladder.
Students looking for placements are provided with support through the Careers and Employability Service and a few specialist teams in specific subject areas. The university continues to support students while they are on their placement and they will be visited by a placement tutor during the year.
Previous students have spent time working for companies including:
- KPMG
- RSPB
- Rolls Royce
- GSK
- Johnson & Johnson
Students who successfully complete their placement and reflective report are awarded the degree BSc Natural Sciences with placement year. It will be a four-year programme with the placement in your penultimate year.
Fees
Tuition fees
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).
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
As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses.
Printing
Due to our commitment to sustainability, we don't print lecture notes but these are available digitally.
Books
You will be able to access all of the books you’ll need through our libraries, but you may wish to purchase your own copies of books you use often. If you do most books cost around £20 to £50.
Equipment
If your subject stream requires you to work in the laboratory (for example, Biology and Chemistry), your tuition fees will cover the cost of a protective lab coat and safety goggles. if you lose these, you are responsible for the cost of replacing them (around £25).
While the calculator you used for your former study is usually sufficient some students will choose to purchase a new calculator which will cost around £10.
Students may want to purchase a Molecular Model Kit to help with visualising molecules in chemistry these cost £20.
Personal laptops are not compulsory as we have computer labs that are open 24 hours a day but you may want to consider one if you wish to work at home. Find out more about IT equipment.
Field trips
Depending on which subjects you choose there are optional field modules in Earth Science and Ecosystems and Environment which may incur a cost. These range from £30 to 50 for UK-based day trips to as much as £400 for overseas residential trips. A full list of approximate expected prices for is available at the start of each year.
Studying abroad
If you have the option to study abroad, you need to consider the travel and living costs associated with your country of choice. This may include visa costs and medical insurance.
Other costs
Students will be responsible for the cost of hire of their gown for graduation (around £50) and may need to pay for additional guest tickets.
In addition there may be costs issued by the university for replacement student ID cards, additional transcripts or certification letters, reassessments and library fines.
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.
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.
Careers
Careers overview
Our graduates have gone on to work as:
- Lab Scientist at Lighthouse Lab Services
- Commercial Oncology Graduate at Bristol Myers Squibb
- Bioinformatician at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
- DevOps/Platform Engineer at Metaswitch Networks
Read our alumni profiles for the sort of jobs our graduates go on to do.
Approximately a third pursue careers in the science sector. Taking up roles in chemical, medical or physical labs, in offices and in the field working as analysts, scientists or engineers. About a third of graduates apply their skills to another sector working at some of the top graduate employers in the country in finance, management, sales, logistics and the civil service.
Further study
The remainder go on to further study doing a masters or PhD in a science specialism they wish to focus on. An understanding of the ideas and approaches across science and how the disciplines fit together is a strong background for further study.
Job prospects
The average starting salary for natural sciences undergraduates within 15 months of graduation was £28,567 (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2021/22-2022/23).
Support every step of the way
Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service will work with you to boost your employability even further – helping with job and course applications, finding relevant work experience and hosting events that connect you with a wide range of potential employers.
The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers.
We’re also the top UK university for the number of graduates entering highly skilled jobs (HESA Graduate Outcomes survey data 2021–2025 for full-time, UK, UG and PG graduates).
Accreditation
Society for Natural Sciences
The course is accredited by the Society for Natural Sciences. The accreditation recognises the strength of the degree to students in interdisciplinary science education.
This means the programme has achieved the standards set out in the society’s accreditation framework. It provides students with excellent learning opportunities and skills development to prepare them for future careers in research, education, business or industry.
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Discover life at Nottingham
From financial support to student life and accommodation, discover more about the Nottingham experience.
Welcome to your campus
At University Park, nature, architecture and student life come together on one unforgettable campus. Explore beautiful green spaces, unwind by the lake and enjoy a vibrant sense of community. It’s the perfect setting for an extraordinary university experience where you can learn, grow and thrive.
Ready to help
Head to our Help and Support hub for frequently asked questions and details of how to get in touch.
