Natural Sciences BSc, MNatSc

Society has an urgent demand for scientists who can tackle complex problems by bringing together the ideas of different disciplines. Our Natural Sciences course will prepare you to take on the scientific challenges of future decades.

The concepts and language of multiple sciences are taught to you from the beginning. You’ll build solid foundations in three science subjects, coming to specialise in two subjects in your final year. By developing your knowledge of multiple subjects side by side, you’ll acquire a unique perspective on how the ideas and tools of science link together in our understanding of the natural world.

The available subject options are biochemistry, biology, chemistry, environmental science, food science and nutrition, mathematics, and physics.

Within the programmes structure you have the opportunity to tailor the scientific components of your degree and their individual weightings to create a course that builds you into the scientist you want to be.

Enhancing your degree

We offer two degree options: the MNatSc, BSc, a four-year integrated Masters degree programme, and the BSc programme, which is a three-year course.

There are opportunities to gain industrial experience on a placement year or to study abroad for a year. Both schemes add an additional year to your course.

You’ll initially study three subjects, from a choice of biochemistry, biology, chemistry, environmental science, food science and nutrition, mathematics, and physics, specialising in two of these in year 2.

Your second year is very flexible. You can either study two subjects with equal weightings, or study two subjects with a major/minor split. You also have the option to study up to 20 credits of your third science or from discovery modules, such as a language or business course.

In your third year, you’ll study two sciences. You can choose to study the two subjects equally or as a major/minor split. You can also undertake discovery modules in your third year.

In the fourth year (if studying MNatSc), you’ll study two sciences and undertake a major research project, which you’ll undertake in our research laboratories. The project can be based solely in one scientific area or you could do an interdisciplinary project, building on your knowledge of two sciences.

Course structure

Details of typical modules/components for this course will be published on May 1st. These may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Broadening your academic horizons

At Leeds we want you to benefit from the depth and breadth of the University's expertise, to prepare you for success in an ever-changing and challenging world. This course gives you the opportunity to broaden your learning by studying discovery modules. Find out more on the Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

As a Natural Sciences student at Leeds we ensure that you benefit from a wide range of teaching methods, including lectures, workshops, small group tutorials and practical work.

These different methods of teaching, together with the continuous support of our teaching staff, enable you to effectively apply what you have learnt through a series of exams, coursework, and continuous assessment. This means that you graduate with the correct mix of knowledge and transferable skills for a successful future career, whatever you choose to do.

Assessment

Throughout years one to three, many modules have a component of continually-assessed work which makes up 10-20% of the final mark. The other 80-90% comes from an examination. We also assess through written reports, presentations and oral discussions throughout the programme, which builds up your skills in these areas. Some subject combinations will require you to write a dissertation as part of your degree, whilst others will require you to carry out laboratory practical work which is continually assessed.

In your final year, alongside assessed theory modules, you’ll perform a major research project under the guidance of a member of academic staff, which will contribute to the final mark you are awarded.

Entry requirements

A-level: A*AA including sciences relating to pathway.

Your A-level subject combination must enable the study of 3 subjects in year 1. See table below for details of which A-level is required to study which subject on the course.

Subject	Required A-level
Biology	Biology
Biochemistry	Chemistry or Biology
Chemistry	Chemistry
Environmental Science	Any two science subjects
Food Science and Nutrition	Any two science subjects
Mathematics	Mathematics
Physics	Physics and Mathematics

Where an A-Level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.

Excludes A-Level General Studies or Critical Thinking.

GCSE: English Grade C (4), if a Mathematics A Level equivalent is not required then a minimum Grade B (6) in GCSE Mathematics is required.
Equivalent English language qualifications are accepted.

• Access to HE Diploma

  Contact the Admissions Tutor to discuss if the course content provides required foundation for desired pathway. Pathways involving mathematics will require mathematics A-Level Grade A

• BTEC

  Contact the Admissions Tutor to discuss if the course content provides required foundation for desired pathway. Pathways involving mathematics will require mathematics A-Level Grade A.

• Cambridge Pre-U

  D2 D3 D3 in 3 principal subjects, which must enable the study of 3 subjects in year 1

• International Baccalaureate

  36 points overall including Higher Level 6 in the subjects which enable the study of 3 subjects in year 1

• Irish Highers (Leaving Certificate)

  H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 - The subject combination must enable the study of 3 subjects in year 1

• Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers

  AAA at Advanced Higher level. Subjects must enable the study of 3 subjects in year 1.

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is an alternative admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative admissions.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information please contact the School of Chemistry Admissions Team.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any one component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

How to apply

Apply to this course through UCAS. The institution code for the University of Leeds is L23. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK/EU students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Applicant days

Suitable applicants will be invited to an applicant day, for which we strongly encourage attendance, as this gives you the opportunity to meet our staff and students, explore the School and University and find out more about your course. During the day you’ll have an informal interview with an academic member of staff, to check that it’s the right course for you and your career plans, have your questions answered and find out more about studying at Leeds.

It is our policy not to make an offer without an interview for Natural Sciences. If you are unable to attend, a telephone or Skype interview may be arranged. For further information, read our admissions policy.

Admissions policy

Faculty of Mathematics and Physical Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Policy

Fees

UK/EU: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

Tuition fees for 2019 entry 
For UK and non-UK EU full-time students starting in 2019, the fee for 2019/20 will be £9,250. 

The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law. For example, the increase of 2.8% in 2017/18 was based on the government’s forecast for the RPI-X measure of inflation.

The UK government has confirmed that non-UK EU students starting in the 2019/20 academic year will have home fee status and be eligible for UK government student loans for the duration of their course. The UK government has not confirmed the situation for future years, so keep checking our website for updates.

Tuition fees for 2020 entry 
For all full-time students starting in 2020, our fees for 2020/21 have not yet been confirmed and we expect to publish an update later in 2019.

Brexit 
Visit our Brexit page for the latest information on the effect of the UK's exit from the EU on current students and applicants to the University.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

The School of Chemistry offers a range of scholarships for Home, EU and International students.

Scholarships for 2020 entry are to be confirmed.

As a Natural Sciences graduate, you’ll be ideally positioned to pursue a research career in your chosen scientific or mathematical field. Your experience of how different scientific disciplines interact will offer insight into the development of new knowledge and its applications.

For many graduates the natural progression is into postgraduate study, to further develop their research skills and subject knowledge. However, there are also many opportunities to immediately take up employment in research or in an area such as consultancy, teaching, or other science-related fields, where your multidisciplinary skills will be in high demand.

The breadth of subject knowledge, research skills and practical experience that you will gain whilst studying Natural Sciences will open the door to a wide range of employment opportunities. Whether advancing knowledge in a research role or leading economic, environmental, social or political change in a professional capacity, you’ll not only shape your own future but that of many others.

Throughout your studies we will provide all the advice, support and guidance you need to find a career that suits you. Visit our employability pages to find out more.

Careers support

Throughout your degree course we will make sure that you have the support and opportunity to develop the skills and experience you’ll need to make the most of your career choices. The students’ union also provides volunteering opportunities which can help you in your personal development.

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

Spending a year living and studying in another country is a unique experience. Unlike the passing tourist, you have the chance to totally immerse yourself in another culture. You will gain unforgettable experiences and memories that you will draw upon in your working and personal life for years to come. In addition to this, the proven ability to live and work in an international context is an asset that employers actively seek.

During your year abroad, you’ll study natural sciences at your host institution.

Work placements

Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

The industrial placement (“Year in Industry”) scheme provides you with the opportunity to experience salaried work before you graduate. Employers actively seek graduates who already have work experience and it can make all the difference in interviews. In addition, the opportunity to work every day with scientists who are experts in their field is an incredible opportunity to enhance your knowledge.

An industrial placement will boost your self-confidence, not only in your chosen subject area, but in the marketplace generally. You will be able to choose from a range of industries in which to work. In previous years, students have worked at many prestigious companies.

During your industrial placement you’ll have an industrial supervisor from within the company, plus an academic supervisor who will keep in touch throughout your placement.

If you are not sure right now whether or not an industrial placement is right for you, don't worry - you will not have to start applying for placements until the beginning of your second year.