MSci Natural Sciences
Please note: This page is for 2027 entry. Click here for 2026 entry.
| UCAS code | FGC0 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2027 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Typical offer | A levels: AAA |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: AAC |
| UCAS code | FGC1 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2027 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Typical offer | A levels: AAA |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: AAC |
Why study MSci Natural Sciences at Exeter?
- A true Natural Sciences programme specially designed to let you work across all the sciences without pathways or boundaries
- Study at the frontiers of knowledge and take an active part in research - many of our students are publishing their work as early as year 2
- Be part of a close community of highly skilled and recognised scientists
- Contribute to our understanding of critical global issues, such as climate change, ageing society, food security and urbanisation
- Encourages you to follow your interests and develop your own ideas as an independent scientist and researcher
2nd in the UK for Natural Sciences
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
Study across Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics and Physics
Spend time at a university abroad as part of your degree
Varied and exciting career options
Our students go on to excel in a huge variety of roles after graduating, including studying for a PhD.
This programme is accredited to meet the educational requirements of the Society of Natural Sciences (SocNatSci).
I chose the Natural Sciences course because of its versatility. I loved all sciences and couldn’t decide which to choose before uni, so this course allowed me to do my favourite aspects of them all.
It’s also great as the future of sciences is multidisciplinary so this course allows you to become a scientist that is able to possess skills across many disciplines. My favourite thing about studying in Exeter is the support network. The course leaders are so supportive and are always available to help you no matter how small the issue. That goes for the students too, the course is small so you get to know everyone really well, and this leads to an amazing community.
Ellie
Studying Natural Sciences MSci at the University of Exeter
Entry requirements (typical offer)
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | AAA | A in Mathematics, Pure Mathematics or Further Mathematics and A in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics |
| IB | 36/666 | HL6 in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) and HL6 in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics (Applicants with Mathematics SL7 plus HL6 in two from Physics, Chemistry or Biology will also be considered) |
| BTEC | DDD |
Applicants studying the BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma, or Extended Certificate, in Applied Human Biology will be considered without a GCE A-Level in either Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. GCE A-Level Mathematics is still required. Applicants taking the BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma, or Extended Certificate in Applied Science will be considered dependent on modules taken. GCE A-Level Maths is still required. Applications will be referred to the Admissions tutor for consideration. |
| GCSE | 4 or C | Grade 4/C in GCSE English language |
| Access to HE | 30 L3 credits at Distinction Grade and 15 L3 credits at Merit Grade | 15 L3 credits at Distinction Grade in an acceptable Mathematics subject area and 15 L3 credits at Distinction Grade in either a Biology, Chemistry or Physics subject area |
| T-Level | T-Levels not accepted | N/A |
| Contextual Offer | A-Level: AAC |
Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers. |
| Other accepted qualifications | ||
| English language requirements |
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B1. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country. |
|
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply
International Foundation programmes
Prepare for entry to Year 1 of an undergraduate degree with the Exeter International Foundation course.
Course content
Your first year will be made up of four modules through which you’ll be introduced to interdisciplinary research, ideas and philosophy which form the basis of Natural Sciences. You’ll explore experimental science in the lab where you’ll complete a series of experiments that complement your lectures.
As you move in to your second year a wide range of optional modules from across physics, biology, maths and natural sciences will be available, giving you a great amount of freedom to follow your interests. You’ll also design, build and run an extended experiment as part of ‘Frontiers of Science 2’.
Up to 30 credits may be taken from other relevant University modules, for which you have the necessary pre-requisites, and with agreement with your Personal Tutor.
Your third year includes two major projects. The Research Project will see you working on current research being undertaken by one of the University’s research groups and will form the first part of a two-part 90 credit project, extended over years three and four. The Group Project will involve working as a team with other third year students to complete a project of your choosing. Group projects typically involve a piece of scientific research, but could also be related to outreach, widening participation or work aimed at encouraging greater gender equality within the sciences. In addition to these projects you will choose three optional modules. An indicative list is provided below but this list is not exhaustive and you are encouraged to look at the range of modules on offer across the University.
During your third year, you can choose to take a Semester Abroad (60 credits), instead of the Group Project (30 credits) and two of the elective 15 credit modules.
In your final year you’ll work in pairs and continue to work on the research project you started in Year 3. For the remaining duration of the project you’ll become a member of the research group, gaining a valuable insight into scientific research, but will also have an opportunity to make a real contribution to this research. In addition to this project you will have the freedom to choose 60 credits worth of optional modules. An indicative list is provided below but this list is not exhaustive and you are encouraged to look at the range of modules on offer across the University.
You may notice changes to some of our modules over the coming months. This is because we are making space for the following:
- Minors: Future Skills Pathways - Alongside your main degree you may be eligible (depending on your course) to choose modules from another subject to broaden your skills and interests.
- Skills to Thrive built into every degree - Essential skills for your future, including communication, problem-solving, teamwork and digital confidence.
- Increased innovation and wellbeing - More room for creative learning, real-world projects and a healthier study rhythm.
The modules below provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
120 credits of compulsory credits
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| Mathematics and Computing: Integrative Tools for Natural Sciences | 30 | |
| Foundations in Natural Science | 60 | |
| Experimental Science | 15 | |
| Frontiers in Science 1 | 15 | |
NSC1002: Mathematics and Computing: Integrative Tools for Natural Sciences
Mathematical and computational methods play an increasingly important role in understanding the complex observational data that are used to understand problems across the natural sciences, for example developmental biology, biochemistry, physics and medicine. These systems are often best explored using the power of mathematical and computational tools and the purpose of this module is to introduce you to some of the fundamental techniques and tools that are used to study these problems.
This is a compulsory module for students on the BSc/MSci Natural Sciences, and is not open to students on other programmes.
The intentions of the module are to teach you fundamental mathematical and computational techniques and to demonstrate their relevance to the natural sciences through specific examples from biology, biochemistry, physics and medicine throughout the module.
NSC1003: Foundations in Natural Science
Biology, Chemistry and Physics form the intellectual foundations of modern science. Together, they provide complementary perspectives on the Natural World: Physics establishes the fundamental laws that govern matter and energy; Chemistry reveals how atomic and molecular structure determines the composition, properties and reactivity of substances; and Biology explains how complex, living systems emerge, function and evolve.
This module introduces the core concepts of each discipline while emphasising their deep interconnections. By the end of it, you will have developed the breadth and confidence required to progress into second-year core modules in any of the three disciplines. By integrating Biology, Chemistry and Physics into a unified scientific narrative and a rigorous conceptual toolkit tailored for Natural Scientists, this module will prepare you to think across disciplinary boundaries and to engage confidently with the complexity of the Natural World.
This is a compulsory module for students on the BSc/ MSci Natural Sciences programme and is not open to students on other programmes.
NSC1004: Experimental Science
This module will give you a broad foundation in experimental science, through laboratory sessions and other learning sessions, which you will build upon in Stage 2 and your research project in subsequent years.
The laboratory sessions consist of experiments designed to complement the biology, chemistry and physics topics taught in the first year and to prepare you for second year modules.
It will also help you to develop transferable skills such as report writing, which are essential to all scientists.
This is a compulsory module for students on the BSc/ MSci Natural Sciences programme and is not open to students on other programmes.
The aims of this module are to give you a foundation in the key experimental skills required to become a successful scientist and to help you learn how to apply the experimental method, develop your ability to make reliable measurements, and report findings in an effective and scientifically robust manner.
NSC1005: Frontiers in Science 1
This module aims to help develop your understanding of the history, philosophy and methodology of science and the mechanisms by which science advances, and to give an overview of what it is like to be a scientist and the environment and context in which scientists work.
Science has a profound effect on all our lives and will play a key part in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food and energy security, disease and health, and sustainability. This module will provide you with an insight into 21st century science.
The module will provide you with both the core skills and context that will support your own project work in later stages. It will help you to develop and reflect on a portfolio of skills essential to all scientists including scientific writing, group working, and presentation skills, as well as other transferable skill, such as problem solving, collaboration and negotiation.
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
30 credits of compulsory modules, 90 credits of optional modules
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| Frontiers in Science 2 | 30 | |
NSC2001: Frontiers in Science 2
This module is designed to underpin and develop key skills required by a scientific researcher. It comprises interdisciplinary experimental and theoretical work supported through interactive lectures and online material.
At the heart of the module is the extended experiment, which spans the second term: you will design, build, run and analyse experiments that will require elements of computer programming, physics, biology, chemistry and mathematical modelling. The written report of the project will take the form of a scientific paper. You will also present your results as an oral presentation at a conference held at the end of the module.
Techniques used across the sciences will be introduced and explained in a series of lectures, which you will then use to help shape your project. In addition, you will undertake a series of shorter experiments that are designed to develop core, transferrable scientific skills.
This is a compulsory module for students on the BSc/MSci Natural Sciences degree programme.
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Optional 1 | ||
| Ecology and Environment | 15 | |
| Structure and Reactivity of Organic Compounds II | 15 | |
| Advanced Cell Biology | 15 | |
| Molecular Biology of the Gene | 15 | |
| Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry | 15 | |
| Bioinorganic Chemistry | 15 | |
| Genomics and Introductory Bioinformatics | 15 | |
| Differential Equations | 15 | |
| Vector Calculus and Applications | 15 | |
| Physical Chemistry | 15 | |
| Introduction to Numerics and Simulation for Scientists | 15 | |
| The Physics of Living Systems | 15 | |
| Observing the Universe | 15 | |
| Electromagnetism I | 15 | |
| From Light to Quanta | 15 | |
| Quantum Mechanics I | 15 | |
| Condensed Matter | 15 | |
| Physics of Climate Change | 15 | |
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
60 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of optional modules
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| MSci Research Project 1 | 30 | |
| Group Project | 30 | |
NSC3002: MSci Research Project 1
In this module you will work on a real research project linked to a research group from across the University. You will often work alongside other project students and will become a member of the research group.
You will gain a valuable insight into scientific research, but will also have an opportunity to make a real contribution to this research.
This module constitutes the first part of a two-part 90-credit project extending over Stages 3 and 4 of the MSci programme, where NSCM001 constitutes the second part. In addition, the project may be further extended, subject to agreement from your project supervisor, and director of studies or programme director, by electing to take module NSCM002 (project extension) in your fourth year.
The aim of this module is to allow you to bring together the knowledge, expertise and skills you have acquired to address a real problem in a research environment. This module aims to foster the skills in open-ended problem solving you will need as a practising researcher, but which are also highly valued in many other professions.
NSC3003: Group Project
Many work environments, often including scientific research, require highly developed team skills. Your ability to act as an effective and cooperative member of a group will make you a valued employee. This module aims to provide experience of working as part of a project team in a situation close to that which might be found in a research, industrial or commercial setting.
Using formal project planning methods to plan and manage the progress of a substantial group project, you will develop an appreciation for the challenges faced by every project manager. This is an opportunity to bring together many of the scientific and professional skills you have learned during Stages 1 and 2.
The group project could encompass a piece of scientific research, but could also be related to outreach, widening participation or work aimed at encouraging greater gender equality within STEM/M Disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine).
This is a compulsory module for students on the BSc Natural Sciences, and compulsory for those students on the MSci Natural Sciences not taking the Semester of Science Studies Abroad (NSC3004).
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Optional 1 | ||
| Ecology of Environmental Change | 15 | |
| Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry | 15 | |
| Frontiers in Molecular Cell Biology | 15 | |
| Organic Synthesis and Drug Design | 15 | |
| Bioinformatics | 15 | |
| Theory of Weather and Climate | 15 | |
| Mathematical Biology and Ecology | 15 | |
| Fluid Dynamics | 15 | |
| Mathematics: History and Culture | 15 | |
| Mathematics of Climate Change | 15 | |
| Macromolecular and Supramolecular Chemistry | 15 | |
| Symmetry and Statistics of Molecules | 15 | |
| Aerosols, Clouds and Climate | 15 | |
| Electromagnetism II | 15 | |
| Nuclear and High Energy Particle Physics | 15 | |
| The Biophysics of Cells and Tissues | 15 | |
| Methods of Theoretical Physics | 15 | |
| Nanostructures and Graphene Science | 15 | |
| Stars from Birth to Death | 15 | |
| Fluid Dynamics in Physics and Astronomy | 15 | |
| Energy, Materials and Sustainability | 15 | |
Please note that the module information displayed here is subject to change.
60 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of optional modules
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory 1 | ||
| MSci Research Project 2 | 60 | |
NSCM001: MSci Research Project 2
In this module you will continue to work on the research project you started in Year 3 (NSC3002). For the remaining duration of the project will become a member of the research group.
You will gain a valuable insight into scientific research and will also have an opportunity to make a real contribution to this research.
This module constitutes the second part of a two-part 90-credit project extending over Stages 3 and 4 of the MSci programme, where NSC3002 constitutes the first part. In addition, the project may be further extended, subject to agreement from your project supervisor, and director of studies or programme director, by electing to take module NSCM002 (project extension) in your fourth year.
The aim of this module is to allow you to bring together the knowledge, expertise and skills you have acquired to address a real problem in a research environment. This module aims to foster the skills in open-ended problem solving you will need as a practicing researcher, but which are also highly valued in many other professions.
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Optional 1 | ||
| Secondary Metabolites | 15 | |
| Bioimaging | 15 | |
| Blue Planet | 15 | |
| AI and Data Science Methods for Life and Health Sciences | 15 | |
| Dynamical Systems and Chaos | 15 | |
| Fluid Dynamics of Atmospheres and Oceans | 15 | |
| Modelling the Weather and Climate | 15 | |
| Magnetic Fields and Fluid Flows | 15 | |
| MSci Research Project 2 Extension | 15 | |
| Mathematical Modelling in Biology and Medicine | 15 | |
| Advanced Topics in Natural Sciences Chemistry I | 15 | |
| Advanced Topics in Natural Sciences Chemistry II | 15 | |
| Quantum Mechanics II | 15 | |
| Condensed Matter II | 15 | |
| Physical Methods in Biology and Medicine | 15 | |
| Solar and Extra-Solar Planets and Their Atmospheres | 15 | |
| Theory and Application of Metamaterials | 15 | |
Course variants
MSci Natural Sciences with International Study
UCAS code: FGC1
Our MSci Natural Sciences degree offers you the opportunity to undertake a semester abroad, during your third year, at one of our world-class partner universities.
While abroad you’ll get the chance to study specialist material particular to your host university. Destinations may vary and we encourage you to view our study abroad webpages for up to date information.
Does it count towards my degree?
Yes, Your semester abroad counts towards 60 credits of your third year, with your mark being calculated at Exeter. This is taken instead of the Group Project (30 credits) and two of the elective 15 credit modules.
How do I apply?
You can apply for this programme through UCAS using the code at the top of this page. You can also transfer to the ‘with International Study’ programme from MSci Natural Sciences during your first year.
Fees
Tuition fees for 2026 entry
UK students: £9,790 per year
International students: £31,200 per year
Scholarships
The University of Exeter offers a wide range of scholarships to support your education, with £7 million available for international students applying to study with us in the 2026/27 academic year, including our prestigious Exeter Excellence Scholarships*. We also provide scholarships for sport, music and other achievements, alongside regional and partner awards such as Chevening, The Beacon Trust and the British Council. Financial support is available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.
* Terms and conditions, including deadlines, apply. See our website for details.
Learning and teaching
Our Natural Sciences degree will place you at the heart of a community of internationally respected scientists, who are exploring some of the most important developments of the future, and whose enthusiasm for research is matched by their passion for teaching. We believe every student benefits from being part of a research-inspired culture and being taught by experts – you will discuss the very latest ideas in seminars and tutorials.
You will learn through practical work, problem-solving, project work, team work and research projects - key qualities for success for the rest of your degree and your future career. Working through examples, solving problems and developing your mathematical and analytical skills are a vital part of being a scientist, so coursework forms a component of most modules. Modules will have a reading list that might consist of chapters from textbooks and research articles from journals.
Excellent student-to-staff ratios, small group tutorials and accessible staff will mean you’re well supported throughout your degree. In all years you will be offered personal tutoring in small groups with an academic who you will see every week.
You will be expected to undertake independent and self-motivated study as part of your degree and should expect your total workload to average about 40 hours per week during term time. We will support you in learning to work independently and becoming a scientific thinker – these skills are not easy to acquire but we will be on-hand to guide you throughout the programme.
Assessment
You will be assessed in all years through a variety of means. These will include coursework, exams, written reports or presentations amongst others. You must pass your first year assessment in order to progress to the second year, but the results do not count towards your degree classification and the assessment will not disadvantage students who did not study all subjects at A level.
Optional modules outside of this course
Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.
Minors: Future Skills Pathways
You can study a Future Skills Pathway alongside your main degree by choosing up to 30 credits of modules from a different subject area in your second and final years.
Your future
Our aim is to teach a syllabus that you will find intellectually challenging, rewarding and stimulating. In addition, to help you develop as a scientist so that you can make a real contribution to the exciting research taking place at the University of Exeter and to important scientific developments long after your graduation.
Many employers look for graduates with a background in a broad based multidisciplinary science degree, as it allows them to tackle problems holistically.
This course will help you to develop a wide range of key skills for employment and further study such as analytical problem solving, teamwork, and organising and communicating information.
Graduates of this degree are highly employable and have found positions working in a wide variety of related roles including laboratory-based positions, industry, law, business, management, teaching and government.
Career Paths
The broad-based skills acquired during your degree will give you an excellent grounding for a wide variety of careers, not only those related to Natural Sciences but also in wider fields. Examples of roles recent graduates are now working as include:
- Academic Researcher Auditor
- Bioinformatics Research Assistant
- Consultant
- Financial Analyst
- Policy Adviser
- Research and Development Scientist
- Risk Culture Business Analyst
- Software Engineer
- Trainee Operational Meteorologist
