MSci (Honours) in Natural Sciences

Program Overview

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The Natural Sciences MSci program is a four-year interdisciplinary program designed for students with broad interests in science. It offers flexibility and rigor, allowing students to combine different sciences with subjects from across the University, tailoring their qualification to their interests and career goals. The program emphasizes research, giving students the opportunity to conduct a final-year project that consolidates their learning and prepares them for postgraduate study or a research career. Graduates of the program are highly sought-after by employers due to their strong analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and research experience.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• The Natural Sciences MSci is a four-year program designed for students with broad interests in science who want to delve deeper into their chosen disciplines.
• The program emphasizes research, giving you the opportunity to conduct a final-year project that consolidates your learning and prepares you for postgraduate study or a research career.

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Description:

• This program equips you with knowledge and skills in multiple scientific disciplines, providing a strong foundation for further study or a wide range of careers.
• You can specialize in one or two science subjects, gaining in-depth knowledge in your chosen area.

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Outline:

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Structure:

• The program spans four years, with each year offering different modules and opportunities.
• In the first year, you can choose to study two to four subjects, building a foundation for further specialization.
• The second and third years allow you to focus on one or two science subjects in greater depth, taking advanced modules and developing your research skills.
• In the final year, you undertake a research project supervised by faculty members, applying your knowledge and skills to a specific research question.

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Course Schedule:

The specific course schedule and module availability can change each year.

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Year 1:

• You can choose to study two to four subjects from various science disciplines like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Earth Sciences.
• You can also choose modules from other disciplines like Economics, Anthropology, or Business.

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Year 2:

• You can focus on one or two science subjects, furthering your knowledge and taking advanced modules in your chosen area.
• You may also take modules from other disciplines to broaden your perspective.

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Year 3:

• You continue to specialize in one or two science subjects, taking advanced modules and preparing for your final-year research project.
• You may also choose to take modules from other disciplines to complement your chosen science focus.

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Year 4:

• This year revolves around your individual research project supervised by faculty members in your chosen field.
• You also take a selection of advanced modules in your main science subjects, consolidating your knowledge and preparing for future endeavors.

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Modules:

• The specific modules available each year may vary.
However, past information provides a glimpse into the wide range of topics covered.

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Year 4 Module Examples:

• Biology and Chemistry: Bioactive Chemistry 4; Biomolecular Analysis.
• Biology and Physics: Atomic and Optical Physics; Biological Imaging; Theoretical Physics 4.
• Chemistry and Mathematics: Chemical Physics 4; Computational Chemical Physics 4; Modules from the Level 4 Mathematics list.
• Chemistry and Physics: Chemical Physics 4; Computational Chemical Physics 4; Atomic and Optical Physics; Theoretical Physics 4.
• Mathematics and Physics: Modules chosen from the Year 4 Mathematics and Physics lists.
• The program allows for flexible specialization in your chosen science subject.
You can choose to focus on one area in depth or combine two areas for a broader understanding.
• The final-year research project provides valuable experience in conducting independent research, which is beneficial for postgraduate studies or research-oriented careers.

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Assessment:

• The program utilizes diverse assessment methods depending on the chosen subject.
• These methods can include:
• Examinations
• Continuous assessment through coursework, assignments, and presentations.
• The final-year research project is assessed through a combination of a written report and presentations.
• The specific weightings of these assessment methods vary depending on the chosen modules and subjects.

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Teaching:

• The program employs a blend of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and provide an enriching academic experience.
• Teaching methods include:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Practical classes
• Individual supervision for the final-year research project.
• Additionally, students benefit from a dedicated academic advisor who assists in course selection and academic development.
• Faculty:
• The program is delivered by highly qualified faculty members, who are experts in their respective fields and actively involved in research.
• Students have opportunities to interact with faculty members through lectures, tutorials, and research supervision.
• Unique Approaches:
• The program encourages independent learning and research skills, preparing students for postgraduate studies or careers requiring independent initiative.
• Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects from their second year onward, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

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Careers:

• The program equips graduates with transferable skills and knowledge applicable to various career paths in science, research, and other industries.
• Potential career opportunities include:
• Research scientist
• Data scientist
• Analyst
• Consultant
• Teacher
• Environmental scientist
• Medical researcher
• Software engineer
• Positions in government and international development organizations
• The program's focus on interdisciplinary study and research skills prepares graduates for diverse career paths and lifelong learning.

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Other:

• The program is designed for students with a strong interest in science and a desire to delve deeper into their chosen areas of study.
• It provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate studies in science or related fields.
• The program emphasizes research skills and provides opportunities for students to engage in independent research projects, which is valuable for those pursuing research-oriented careers.
• Graduates of the program are highly sought-after by employers due to their strong analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and research experience.
• The program offers a stimulating and intellectually challenging environment for students with a passion for science and a desire to make a difference in the world.

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The tuition fees for 2025/26 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed here once approved. The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government. The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).