Ranking
1st
Choice for major employers
Book your Open Day or Make an enquiry
Discover more about your chosen subject at one of our Open Days or by asking us a question.
Course overview
Natural sciences opens a window into understanding the world — from the tiniest particles to the vastness of the cosmos. By exploring disciplines like physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences, or engaging in big science experimentation like BIFoR FACE, we uncover the rules that shape nature and solve real-world problems at the interface of disciplines. Studying natural sciences sharpens critical thinking, nurtures curiosity, and equips you with skills valued in research, technology, environmental protection, and beyond. It is about developing an interdisciplinary approach, blending diverse scientific fields to ignite your curiosity and shape your future with a unique scientific education.
Study Natural Sciences at the University of Birmingham
Forge a future of limitless possibilities — explore across disciplines where breakthroughs are born, push your boundaries, and let your curiosity lead the way.
The best thing about my course is that it teaches me how to communicate and work with people from different academic backgrounds. This is a very valuable skill to develop if you are passionate about multidisciplinary areas like climate science and biomedical applications.
Our four-year programme blends core modules that invite you to explore what it truly means to be an interdisciplinary scientist with specialist modules from your subject pathways. These specialist modules develop deep expertise in your selected fields while broadening your knowledge across disciplines, equipping you to tackle complex problems from multiple perspectives.
Year 1
Year 1
In the first year, alongside your chosen subject pathways, you will receive training in the skills that you need to become an interdisciplinary scientist to work across and between different scientific disciplines. Our Year 1 core asks the questions of what science is, who science is for, and how science is done (see Responsible Scientist). In addition, you will select your study pathways. There are two options available to you, depending on whether you want to i) study with or without a major specialism and ii) whether you want to specialise in two, three or four subject areas.
Graduate with a major specialism
Two subjects (Pathway A):
- Major Subject (60 credits)
- Second Subject (40 credits)
Three subjects (Pathway B):
- Major Subject (60 credits)
- Second and Third Subjects (2 x 20 credits)
Graduate without a major specialism
Three subjects (Pathway C):
- First Subject (40 credits)
- Second Subject (40 credits)
- Third Subject (20 credits)
Year 2
Year 2
In Year Two, we elevate your interdisciplinary science expertise with our compulsory module entitled Communicating Scientist, designed to strengthen your ability to share scientific ideas with clarity and impact. You will also build essential data science and visualisation skills, giving you the tools to interpret complex information and present it effectively — capabilities that are vital for any modern interdisciplinary scientist. In addition, your pathways will continue from Year 1 as follows:
Graduate with a major specialism
Two subjects (Pathway A):
- Major Subject (60 credits)
- Second Subject (40 credits)
Three subjects (Pathway B):
- Major Subject (60 credits)
- Second and Third Subjects (2 x 20 credits)
Graduate without a major specialism
Three subjects (Pathway C):
- First Subject (40 credits)
- Second Subject (40 credits)
- Third Subject (20 credits)
Year 3
Year 3
In Year Three, you’ll undertake an exciting final-year project — either individually or as part of the Natural Sciences Group Research Project. We offer three distinct options that allow you to tailor your project in the direction you want your degree to take you, shaped by your interests and career ambitions:
- Independent Research Project in Your Major (40 credits): Dive deep into a topic you’re passionate about within your major.
- Natural Sciences Group Research Project (40 credits): Work with a team on a research project that spans multiple science disciplines.
- Entrepreneurial Modules (2 x 20 credits): Choose this final-year pathway in Entrepreneurship to combine business innovation with scientific expertise. The first 20-credit module provides essential training, while the second 20-credit module contributes directly to your Independent Research Project. You will then complete a further 20 credits of independent research, either through a subject-specific project (where available) or the Natural Sciences 20-credit Independent Research Project.
Your final year project will be integrated within your degree pathway you selected within Year 1 and 2.
Pathways options
Pathway A and B:
- Major Subject (60 credits overall) with option for Independent Research to be part of the 60 credits
- Second and Third Subjects (60 credits)
Pathway C:
- Any valid combination of subjects continued from the second year with final year project. No more than 60 credits allowed in any one subject.
Final Year
Final Year
In year four, dive into independent research with subject-specific or interdisciplinary projects. Choose your path: focus on one subject or combine multiple for a deeper, 60-credit exploration.
Pathway options
MSci Pathway A and B:
- Major Subject (60 credits), with second and third subjects (60 credits combined). Continuation from Year 3 subject specialisms including any valid combination of Independent Research
MSci Pathway C:
- First, Second, and Third Subjects totalling 120 credits. Continuation from Year 3 including a combination of Independent Research (60 credits) from either Subject Specific or Interdisciplinary Research Project.
Subject Pathways
Select your First and Second Subjects, and Third and Fourth if part of your chosen Study Pathway. The subjects available, which can be taken as 60, 40, or 20 credits, are listed below. Working closely with your personal tutor, you’ll design a combination of subjects and credits that shapes a degree programme tailored to your interests, strengths, and career goals.
60 credits
60 credits
Subjects that can be taken as a 60-credit component of your degree:
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Biomedical Sciences
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Earth Science
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
- Mathematics
- Physical Geography
- Physics
- Psychology
- Sport Exercise and Health Sciences
See Modules Information for available modules in each year for the given subjects.
40 credit
40 credit
Subjects that can be taken as a 40-credit component of your degree:
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences - Potentially Available
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Earth Science
- Environmental Science
- Material Science
- Mathematics
- Physical Geography
- Physics
- Psychology
- Sport Exercise and Health Sciences
See Modules Information for available modules in each year for the given subjects.
20 credits
20 credits
-
Subjects that can be taken as a 20-credit component of your degree:
- Biological Sciences
- Biomedical Sciences
- Chemistry
- Earth Science
- Engineering project
- Environmental Science
- Physical Geography
- Psychology - Unavailable
- Sport Exercise and Health Sciences
See Modules Information for available modules in each year for the given subjects.
Why Study Natural Sciences at Birmingham?
- 1st
Choice for Major Employers
‘The Graduate Market in 2024’ report from High Fliers
- Develop your expertise in interdisciplinary science and follow your curiosity - Your journey will typically revolve around one primary subject, your Major, which will become your specialist discipline. Alongside your major and the core Natural Sciences modules that help develop your capacity as an interdisciplinary scientist, you will have the freedom to explore other subjects that ignite your curiosity.
- Create your unique expertise - Our approach to Natural Sciences ensures you gain a broad and versatile scientific education. Complement your Major with one, two or three additional subjects, crafting an original portfolio of expertise that builds on your interests and sets you apart.
- Flexible graduation options - At the end of your degree, you have the flexibility to graduate with a Natural Sciences degree, either with or without a major specialism, depending on your chosen modules.
Talk to our students
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly students to find out more about your favourite course, our beautiful campus and life in our vibrant and cultural city.
Course delivery
Learn through diverse methods: fieldwork, practicals, and tutorials. Become an independent learner with research-led teaching and comprehensive support.
Lecture
Seminar
Projects
-
Taught by academics who are finding innovative solutions to big issues, you will have access to the latest knowledge and thinking by studying at Birmingham.
-
We use a variety of approaches to help you learn during the course of your degree. Your teaching will involve a mixture of dedicated and innovative small group experiences with fellow Natural Sciences students and studying alongside other students in your Major field or optional modules. Throughout the programme, you will move between different Schools and departments across the University, whilst retaining a home and core support network within the Natural Sciences team.
-
Depending on your Major area of concentration this may involve some, or all, of large and small lectures, small group seminars and/or laboratory work. You will interact closely with the core Natural Sciences advisory staff and fellow students as part of both your core and extramural development.
Support during your studies
You will have access to a comprehensive support system to help you make the transition to higher education when you start at Birmingham:
Personal academic tutors – You will be assigned your own personal academic tutor who will get to know you as you progress through your studies. They will provide academic support and advice to enable you to make the most of your time here at Birmingham.
Wellbeing Officers – Alongside your personal academic tutor, you will also have access to dedicated wellbeing officers who provide professional support, advice and guidance to students across a range of issues.
Our Student Experience Team - Will help you get the most out of your academic experience. They offer research opportunities, study skills support, and help you prepare for your post-university career.
Contact hours
Contact time will vary depending on the modules you select and your level of study. In year one, the Natural Sciences compulsory modules involve 2 hours per week, with your additional contact time dependent on your choice of subjects and portfolio of modules. Typically, formally timetabled work is about 15 hours per week. with the remaining time allocated to research, preparation, and assignments.
As you progress through your studies, you are typically expected to undertake a higher level of independent guided study and your formally timetabled contact hours will adjust accordingly. Contact time for Natural Sciences students is supported by the advice and guidance time scheduled with your personal tutor, and in your final year you receive individual supervision in support of your dissertation or independent research project.
Assessment methods and feedback
Assessments - you will be assessed in a variety of ways to help you transition to a new style of learning. At the beginning of each module, you will be given information on how and when you will be assessed. Assessments methods will vary with each module and could include: coursework, such as essays. Group and individual presentations and formal exams.
Feedback - You will receive feedback on each assessment, so you can learn from each assignment. You will also be given feedback on any exams that you take. If you should fail an exam, we will ensure that particularly detailed feedback is provided to help you prepare for future exams.
Module information
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
Year 1
Year 1
BSc Natural Sciences Year 1 Major Pathways 25/26
Pick from the relevant modules in the below subject list up to the necessary number of credits (60, 40, 20). Where modules are marked as core, these must be selected above the wider optional modules (accounting for core requirements where appropriate).
| Biochemistry Year 1 | Available as 60 & 40 credit option |
|
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Metabolism |
10 |
Semester 2 |
|
Fundamentals of biochemistry |
10 |
Semester 1 |
|
Cell biology and physiology |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Physical Biochemistry |
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
Chemistry for biochemists (if not taking chemistry) |
20 |
Semester 1 |
If you do not have an A-level in Mathematics at grade C or higher, you are strongly advised to complete the self-directed Mathematics course organised by the School of Chemistry.
| Biosciences (Whole Organism Pathway) Year 1 | Available as 60,40 & 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Cell Biology and Physiology |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Introduction to Evolution and Animal Biology |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Ecological concepts and plant sciences |
20 |
Semester 2 |
| Biosciences (Molecular Biology Pathway) Year 1 | Available as 60,40& 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Cell Biology and Physiology |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Genetics I |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Fundamentals of Biochemistry |
10 |
Semester 1 |
|
Introduction to Microbiology |
10 |
Semester 2 |
| Biomedical Sciences (Immune System and Cancer Pathway) Year 1 | Available as 60 & 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Cellular Biology and Biochemistry |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Fundamentals of Life Sciences |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Fundamentals of Neuroscience and Pharmacology |
20 |
Semester 1&2 |
| Biomedical Sciences (Physiology Pathway) Year 1 | Available as 60 & 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Fundamentals of Life Sciences |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Sciences |
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
Fundamentals of Neuroscience and Pharmacology |
20 |
Semester 1&2 |
| Chemistry Year 1 | Available as 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Inorganic Chemistry I |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Physical Chemistry I |
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
Organic Chemistry 1a |
10 |
Semester 1 |
|
Organic Chemistry 1b |
10 |
Semester 2 |
If you do not have an A-level in Mathematics at grade C or higher, you are strongly advised to complete the self-directed Mathematics course organised by the School of Chemistry.
| Computer Science Year 1 | Available as 60 & 40 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Object Oriented Programming (Core) |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
|
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
Earth Sciences Year 1 |
Available as 60,40 & 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
|
Connected Earth: Environmental Systems and Change |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
You must choose up to 60 credits from the above modules
| Environmental Sciences Year 1 | Available as 60,40 & 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Connected Earth: Environmental Systems and Change |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
20 |
Semester 1&2 |
|
|
Ecological Concepts and Plant Science |
20 |
Semester 1 |
| Mathematics Year 1 | Available as 60 & 40 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Real Analysis (Core) |
20 |
Semester 1&2 |
|
20 |
Semester 1&2 |
|
|
Sequences and Series (Optional) |
10 |
Semester 1 |
|
20 |
Semester 1&2 |
|
|
10 |
Semester 2 |
|
|
10 |
Semester 2 |
| Physical Geography Year 1 | Available as 60,40 & 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Applied GIS and Data Science |
20 |
Semester 1&2 |
|
Connected Earth: Environmental Systems and Change |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
Research Design for Geographers and Planners |
20 |
Semester 2 |
| Physics Year 1 - students must take all the modules below | Available as 60 & 40 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Mathematics for Physics 1a |
10 |
Semester 1 |
|
Mathematics for Physics 1b |
10 |
Semester 2 |
|
10 |
Semester 1 |
|
|
10 |
Semester 1 |
|
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
| Psychology Year 1 | Available as 60,40 & 20 credit option | |
|---|---|---|
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Lifespan Psychology A: introduction to Developmental Psychology |
10 |
Semester 1 |
|
Introduction to Psychobiology: from ion channels to behaviour |
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
|
10 |
Semester 2 |
| Sport Ex Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
|
You must choose up to 60 credits from the above modules |
Available as 60,40 & 20 credit option | |
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|
Clinical and Exercise Biochemistry |
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
|
20 |
Semester 1 |
|
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
Year 2
Year 2
In Year 2, your module choices build directly on the foundation you established in Year 1. The options available are shaped by the subjects you selected previously, enabling you to deepen your knowledge and refine your areas of specialisation.
This year is all about strengthening your scientific expertise and developing a richer, more sophisticated understanding of your chosen fields. The modules you take will not only enhance your theoretical grounding but also expand your practical skills, preparing you for the advanced study and independent research that define Year 3.
By the end of Year 2, you will have the scientific depth, analytical ability, and academic confidence to embark on your final-year independent project with a strong sense of purpose and direction.
Year 3
Year 3
Students must choose 80 credits of any Level H modules from within the defined programme module listings and subject to the limitations of the timetable. In addition, you will undertake an independent research project to the value of 40 credits. We offer three distinct options that allow you to tailor your project in the direction you want your degree to take you, shaped by your interests and career ambitions:
- Independent Research Project in Your Major (40 credits): Dive deep into a topic you’re passionate about within your major.
- Natural Sciences Group Research Project (40 credits): Work with a team on a research project that spans multiple science disciplines.
- Entrepreneurial Modules (2 x 20 credits): Choose this final-year pathway in Entrepreneurship to combine business innovation with scientific expertise. The first 20-credit module provides essential training, while the second 20-credit module contributes directly to your Independent Research Project. You will then complete a further 20 credits of independent research, either through a subject-specific project (where available) or the Natural Sciences 20-credit Independent Research Project.
|
Module Title |
Credits |
Semester |
|
20 |
Semester 2 |
|
|
20 |
Semester 1 |
Final Year
Final Year
These modules are currently under review and are still to be confirmed (TBC). Please check back soon for an update.
Teaching staff
Dr Lloyd Jenkins
Lecturer in Historical and Cultural Geography: teaching-focused
Dr Jenkins is a Historical Geographer, with an interest in landscape change and people's relationship with the past.
Entry requirements
To secure a place at Birmingham, you'll need to meet our general entry requirements as well as those specific to your course.
- A Level
AAA - including 1 required science
- IB
6,6,6 32 points overall
- BTEC
BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma and Subsidiary Diploma are accepted, but subjects are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further guidance.
Number of A levels required: 3
-
Accepted Science Subjects
Maths and one from Physics, Chemistry or Biology
General Studies
General Studies is not accepted, but a good performance may be taken into account if you fail to meet the conditions of the offer.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
6,6,6 in Higher Level subjects plus 32 points overall
BTEC qualifications
BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma and Subsidiary Diploma are accepted, but subjects are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further guidance.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
- TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking and 19 in Writing.
- IELTS*: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any band.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): PTE 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills.
- Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015)***: C1 Advanced - Minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component.
- Language Cert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 ‘Communicator’ with no less than 25 in each skill.
- Trinity ISE II: Distinction all skills.
- Trinity ISE III: Pass in each Skill
Presessional English courses
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September, including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Am I likely to receive an offer for 2026?
Stay up-to-date with news and updates from the University of Birmingham including events, our courses and studying with us by registering your details. If you do so, you will be able to use our Offer Calculator.
Alternative Offers
Students who are eligible and complete a Pathways to Birmingham programme will receive an alternative offer, which is typically two grades below the standard offer.
Our Contextual Offer scheme
Our Contextual Offer scheme recognises the potential of students whose personal circumstances may have restricted achievement in school or college. If you are eligible to benefit from the Contextual Offer scheme, you will receive an offer which is one grade lower than the standard offer. You don’t need to apply for this – it will be assessed and applied at the point of application if you’re eligible.
- Pathways to Birmingham
BBB - Including 1 Required Science
- Contextual Offer
ABB - Including 1 Required Science
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation, and includes membership of the Guild of Students.
- £9,535*
per year for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27
*The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If Parliament agrees on an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study, normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to you without delay. The fee for September 2025 entry was £9,535 for UK students. If you are applying for 2026 entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee once it is confirmed by the Government.
Undergraduate loans
To help with the cost of studies, undergraduate students from the UK can apply for student finance through the Student Loans Company. The support available is made up of a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan which helps to cover living costs.
Scholarships, grants and bursaries
At Birmingham, we believe that financial worries should not be a barrier to accessing higher education. That’s why we offer a range of additional financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and other awards.
Financial support for Home students
If you're a UK student and starting university in September 2026, find out more about what financial support is available to you.
Financial support for International students
We want to help you reach your full potential. Explore our wide variety of scholarships available for international students.
Application process
Whatever your journey to university looks like, we’re here to support you every step of the way. For all undergraduate courses at Birmingham, you apply online through UCAS. The UCAS website has lots of information and advice around the process.
- 14 January 2026
Application deadline for September 2026 entry. Applications close at 18:00 GMT.
View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.
What careers can I pursue with a Natural Science degree?
A Natural Sciences degree will set you apart in a competitive job market.
Throughout the programme, our students develop skills in academic resilience, initiative, and intellectual independence. Natural Sciences graduates have the ability to research and analyse complex information, work independently and as part of a team, and create compelling solutions to problems.
Supported by the University's Careers Network team, you will be encouraged to acquire and develop your skills for the jobs of tomorrow. Throughout the course of your degree, you will develop a range of abilities from communication to research, analysis to leadership which will equip you to succeed.
Many graduates find employment in areas far removed from their primary area of study at University – or are likely to change careers several times in their lives, sometimes engaging in a wider range of jobs with the same employer. Our Natural Sciences programme recognises this phenomenon and is designed to meet the growing demand from leading employers in the UK and internationally, for a new breed of dynamic business, public service, and political leaders.
Internationally, Natural Sciences graduates progress to the legal professions, major consultancy and management firms, postgraduate study or graduate entry to medicine (subject to following an appropriate pathway during the programme).
Besides this, you'll benefit from unparalleled support. You will not only have the opportunity to learn from a Birmingham graduate through our alumni mentoring programme, but you'll have dedicated support for finding internships and making appropriate choices to become an influential graduate in your own right.
Studying Natural Sciences at Birmingham gave me the flexibility to follow my interests and succeed in global energy challenges
The University is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits.
The Graduate Market in 2025, High Fliers report
Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique.
Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations.
Careers Network
Our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offer support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.
Hear from some of our inspiring alumni who have gone on to work for leading employers such as the UK Space Agency and BBC Sport.
Student experience
Your experience studying at Birmingham will give you the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community, and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. In our student accommodation, you can enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
Our cosmopolitan city has a unique history and so much to see and do. With an ever-changing food and drink scene, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of culture, our city is more than somewhere to study.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus.
Campus life
Our beautiful campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn and socialise. Like a town of its own, it’s just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Flexible programmes to suit you
Not sure what you want to study?
Explore your options for combining subjects and shape your degree around your interests, whilst developing key skills for the world of work.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.