A guide to science courses

What can I study in Science?

Science is a diverse and interdisciplinary field. Major specialisations include:

• Biological Sciences – such as Biology, Ecology, and Biotechnology.
• Physical Sciences – including Physics, Chemistry, and Photonics.
• Earth and Environmental Sciences – such as Geology and Ocean Sciences.
• Mathematics and Statistics – including pure and applied Mathematics, Actuarial Science, and Statistics.
• Computer Science – exploring programming, algorithms, AI, and cybersecurity.
• Biomedical Science – such as Molecular Medicine, Molecular Cell Biology and Microbiology.

Many universities also offer interdisciplinary science programs, allowing students to combine specialisations or tailor their studies to emerging fields like environmental biotechnology or data-driven life sciences.

Why choose to study a university degree in Science?

There are many reasons to pursue a science degree:

• Curiosity and discovery – Science appeals to those who seek to understand how things work.
• Wide career opportunities – Science graduates work in research, education, technology, healthcare, government, industry, and beyond.
• Global relevance – From tackling climate change to developing vaccines, science plays a vital role in solving global challenges.
• Skill development – Scientific training enhances analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, experimentation, and communication.
• Research and innovation – Science drives technological and medical advances that shape the future.

A science degree is ideal for those who enjoy questioning, investigating, and applying logic to real-world problems.

Practical learning and research opportunities

Science programs are deeply rooted in hands-on experience and research. Students typically benefit from:

• Laboratory experiments – Conducting experiments to test hypotheses and apply theoretical knowledge.
• Fieldwork – Gathering data in natural environments such as forests, oceans, or archaeological sites.
• Research projects – Working on independent or group research under faculty supervision.
• Industry placements – Internships with research institutes, hospitals, tech firms, or environmental organisations.
• Computational simulations and modelling – Especially in physics, chemistry, and data sciences.
• Access to research centres – Many universities have cutting-edge labs and facilities.
• Undergraduate research assistant roles – Paid or volunteer opportunities to contribute to academic research.

These experiences prepare students for graduate study or employment and often contribute to published research or scientific conferences.

Courses available at undergraduate and postgraduate Levels

Undergraduate Degrees:

• BSc (Bachelor of Science) – The most common undergraduate science qualification.
• Integrated Master’s (e.g. MSci, MPhys, MChem) – A four-year program combining bachelor’s and master’s-level study.
• Specialised degrees – Such as BSc in Biotechnology, BSc in Environmental Science, or BSc in Neuroscience.

Duration:

• UK and Commonwealth countries: 3–4 years full-time.
• USA: 4 years (typically a BS within a liberal arts structure).
• Europe and Asia: Usually 3 years, though varies by country.

Postgraduate Degrees:

• MSc (Master of Science) – 1–2 years of advanced study and/or research in a specific field.
• MRes (Master of Research) – Research-focused master’s for those considering a PhD.
• PhD or DPhil (Doctor of Philosophy) – 3–5 years of original research leading to a thesis.

Academic entry requirements

Entry requirements differ by country, university, and subject, but generally include:

• Strong academic background – Especially in science and math subjects.
• High school diploma or equivalent – With specific subject prerequisites (e.g., chemistry and biology for biomedical science).
• A-levels, IB, or national qualifications – With required grades in relevant subjects.
• Personal statement – Explaining interest in science and future aspirations.
• Standardised tests – Some universities require SAT, ACT, or entrance exams.
• English language proficiency – For non-native speakers (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores).

Postgraduate entry typically requires:

• An undergraduate degree in a relevant science discipline – Often with a minimum honours classification.
• Research proposal or statement of interest – For research-based programs.
• References – Academic or professional.

Tuition fees for Science degrees

Tuition fees vary widely depending on the country, institution, and course level:

Undergraduate (Annual Tuition):

UK:

• Home students: ~£9,250/year
• International: £15,000–£35,000/year

USA:

• Public universities: $10,000–$30,000 (in-state), $25,000–$50,000 (out-of-state)
• Private universities: $40,000–$70,000+

Canada:

• Domestic: CAD 7,000–12,000
• International: CAD 25,000–45,000

Australia:

• AUD 20,000–45,000 depending on the institution and subject

Postgraduate (Full Program):

• MSc: £10,000–£30,000 (UK); $30,000–$60,000 (USA); AUD 20,000–50,000 (Australia)
• PhD: Often funded or subsidised, especially if tied to research projects or grants

Many students may receive scholarships, grants, or research assistantships to offset costs, especially at the postgraduate level.

In conclusion

A degree in science opens a world of opportunity to explore, discover, and innovate.

Whether you’re passionate about the environment, curious about the human brain, or excited by quantum physics, studying science offers a dynamic, intellectually stimulating path with practical applications across industries.

With global demand for scientific expertise only increasing, a science degree provides both deep knowledge and the adaptable skills needed for the future.