Best Science Courses To Study In UK Universities

When science students are searching for places in Europe to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies, the United Kingdom is one of the top countries that comes up. Why? because of its significant investments in medical research, as well as high-quality faculty and infrastructure.

There are UK universities whose research has led to groundbreaking discovery in the medical and technological field, placing it at the forefront of advancing science and technology. The country has produced some of the world’s most brilliant minds, from Isaac Newton to Charles Darwin, Rosalind Franklin, and Stephen Hawking.

The United Kingdom is recognized as the third-highest in terms of scientific research output globally. 91 Nobel Prize winners come from the United Kingdom, giving it bragging rights among its counterpart nations. In this comprehensive article, Booklab24 will give you an insight into the universities in the United Kingdom that offer top science courses based on academic reputation, research output and career prospects.

Types of Science Degrees

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

The Bachelor of Science is an undergraduate degree that opens the door to a range of science disciplines. The degree takes 3-4 years to complete and gives students the opportunity to explore on a broader scale, areas like physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, computer science and environmental science. Throughout the course, students engage in a dynamic mix of theoretical learning, practical laboratory work, field investigations and stimulating project-based tasks. The BSc Science programme develops students critical thinking skills and sharpens their problem-solving skills. Tuition fees range from £18,000 to £40,000 per year.

Eligibility criteria: Academic qualification equivalent to UK A-levels or International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. Proficiency in English is also required as evidenced by an English language test such as IELTS, TOEFL or PTE.

Master of Science (MSc)

The Master of Science is a postgraduate program that enables passionate individuals to embark on a journey of advanced scientific exploration and specialization. This degree lasts for 1 to 2 years. An MSc program allows graduates to have a more advanced knowledge of fields such as physics, computer science, and biology, etc. Throughout the programme, students will develop their expertise by completing intensive coursework, conducting indepth research work and writing a thesis, which will be added to the years of knowledge gained in their respective field of study. Course fees range from GBP 20,000 to GBP 39,000 per year.

Eligibility criteria: A relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification with minimum grade or GPA requirements. Knowledge of English is also essential and can be evidenced through a standard test such as IELTS, TOEFL or Pearson PTE.

PhD in Science

A PhD in Science dwells on academic research and demands a deep level of dedication and expertise in a scientific field. The course duration is usually 3 to 4 years. Doctorate candidates are the highest cadre in this field and their research works are often used to impact knowledge in undergraduates stages of study. Tuition fees typically range from £15,000 to £35,000 per year.

Eligibility criteria: A relevant Master’s degree or equivalent qualification and a research proposal outlining the intended area of ​​study and objectives. It is also essential that you have good English language skills, which you will be required to prove by taking a standard test such as IELTS, TOEFL or PTE.

Here are 10 of the most sought-after science courses for undergraduate and graduates, and the leading university that offers them in the United Kingdom.

Medicine (University of Oxford)

The United Kingdom is a highly desirable destination for medical students due to the quality of education and variety of medical courses available. The University of Oxford offers highly competitive and challenging undergraduate and postgraduate medical programs.

The bachelor’s degree is a six-year course that includes three years of preclinical research and three years of clinical training. Graduates of UK medical programs are highly regarded and have the opportunity to work in research, academia and clinical settings.

Mathematics (University of Cambridge)

Cambridge University is widely renowned for its outstanding quality and excellence. It offers mathematics courses to all levels of study and provides a challenging yet rewarding learning experience. The courses cover a range of topics from abstract logic problems to the study of black holes.

The Department of Mathematics at Cambridge University offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees to prepare the next generation of mathematicians to excel in any industry. Some of the opportunities that those with Mathematics degrees from Cambridge can enjoy include economics, finance and physics.

Chemistry (University of St Andrews)

The University of St Andrews is globally acclaimed for its teaching excellence and has been in existence for over 600 years. The Chemistry Department at the University of St Andrews trains students who will inspire the next generation of chemists.

The school offers state-of-the-art teaching facilities and has one of the largest postgraduate groups in the university. The world’s oldest periodic table was discovered at the University of St Andrews and is currently on display.

Physics (University of Cambridge)

The University of Cambridge runs a highly competitive physics program that allows students to obtain a degree in various areas of physics. The bachelor’s degree course lasts for three years.

Admission to this program is highly competitive. The Cavendish Laboratory is a world-renowned physics laboratory located on the West Cambridge site of the University of Cambridge.

Neuroscience (University College London)

The Neuroscience department at the University College London is home to some of UCL’s best researchers. It has produced five Nobel Prize winners and numerous research breakthroughs in neuroscience. The department offers an interconnected student support network and an active student society that creates a community of neuroscience students.

The University College London Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience conducts world-class research into the functioning of the human brain and mind. This is evidenced in the report by the UK Research Excellence Framework 2021, that UCL has the highest neuroscience research output in the UK.

Biological Sciences (Imperial College London)

Imperial College London runs a three-year Biological Sciences course which develops students understanding of biology from cells to ecosystems. The curriculum makes it so all students take core modules in year one, followed by Applied Biology and Genetics in year two.

In the final year, students carry out a research project and choose from a range of modules such as Plant Biotechnology and Tropical Biology. Through laboratory, computer and fieldwork, you will gain skills in designing, conducting and analysing data for biological experiments.

Marine Biology (University of Aberdeen)

The Marine Biology program at the University of Aberdeen offers expertise in deep-sea studies, seals and dolphins, fisheries management and marine protected areas. Final-year students have access to specialized facilities, field stations and research vessels for their research projects. The coastal location allows easy access to marine habitats for classwork and recreational activities.

Marine scientists from this program at the University of Aberdeen have discovered the deepest fish in the world and hold the record for the most comprehensive survey of seabird populations.

Biotechnology (Imperial College London)

ICL is homw to world-renowned experts who teach biotechnology courses, making it a highly reputed program at the institution. Students are exposed to aspects of applied biochemistry and biotechnology, including technology commercialization, entrepreneurship and intellectual property.

The Biotechnology programme includes lectures and case studies from business leaders and academics to enrich the students learning experience. Additionally, the department’s cutting-edge research programme which is international recognised, ensures students are kept up to date with the latest advances in the field.

Zoology (University of Bristol)

A Zoology degree from the University of Bristol will give you a comprehensive understanding of animal biology, from the molecular to the ecological level. The programme recognises the interdisciplinary nature of modern zoology.

Faculty members, including world-class researchers in animal behaviour and sensory biology, conduct internationally recognised field research on wildlife populations.

Nutrition (University of Reading)

The University of Reading’s Nutrition program enables students explore the relationship between nutrition and health, and they get to examine the connections at individual and societal levels.

Times Higher Education ranks the University of Reading 8th in the UK for research power in food science and veterinary medicine, and 95 percent of its research is internationally recognised.

Students undertaking this university’s nutrition course have access to facilities such as a large pilot plant and specialised laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art food development equipment.