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UCL Natural Sciences is an interdisciplinary degree designed to reflect modern scientific research and career pathways. It allows you to study across multiple scientific disciplines while developing a strong core scientific foundation.

Specialisms are interdisciplinary study combinations that act as the focal point of your degree. They shape your core curriculum and reflect real-world scientific challenges and career opportunities. Your choice of specialism will act as a focal point around which your core curriculum is organised. 

Within each specialism you will study core content alongside a range of optional modules. Some choices may relate very closely to the title of your specialism, whilst others are included to provide additional breadth. 

At the start of the course, you will choose three scientific disciplines. You will study all three throughout your first year. After Year 1, you will select a specialism based on these subject areas.

The programme combines modules taught by multiple UCL departments, giving you a genuinely interdisciplinary experience and exposure to different scientific approaches.

Yes. By your third year, you will undertake a supervised interdisciplinary research project related to your specialism, alongside advanced-level taught modules.

Yes. Studying abroad is optional, and places are not guaranteed. Applications are made during the second year and successful applicants complete an additional year at a host university between their second and third years, extending the degree by one year.

The study abroad year offers many benefits that are attractive to employers, such as adaptability, global awareness, improved communication, confidence, and independence. 

• BSc Natural Sciences (3 years, or 4 with study abroad) provides a strong foundation for careers outside academic research or for further Master’s study.
• MSci Natural Sciences is a four-year degree offering advanced preparation for research-focused careers or PhD study. The final year includes a major research project and Master’s-level modules.

Natural Sciences is also offered as a four-year MSci, which extends the course by a year. In the final year of the MSci, students complete a major research project and take Masters-level taught modules.

Many students choose a BSc degree as a foundation for a career outside academic research. However, it also provides a strong basis for further study at Master’s level. Similarly, the MSci offers more advanced preparation for careers or further research such as PhD study.

Yes. Transfer is permitted if your academic performance is consistently at a 2:1 level or higher. Applicants are encouraged to apply for the MSci initially to keep more options open.