Natural Sciences: Undergraduate Study 2015

For general undergraduate
enquiries please contact:
The Enquiry Centre

t: +44 (0)115 951 5559
e: undergraduate-enquiries@nottingham.ac.uk
w: www.nottingham.ac.uk/faqs
Natural Sciences
Undergraduate study 2015
www.nottingham.ac.uk/naturalsciences
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Contents
Welcome to Natural Sciences
2 Welcome
3 Why study natural sciences at Nottingham?
5 Degree courses
7 What will I study?
19 How will I study?
23 How will I be assessed?
25 Study abroad
27 Career and employment prospects
29 Where can a natural sciences degree take me?
31 Student profile
33 Your student experience
37 Applying for a place
39 Frequently asked questions
41 Visiting and contacting us
Making the decision about where to come to

University is an exciting and nerve-wracking
time. For many of you this is the biggest
decision that you have ever had to make and
one that could have an impact on your life for
years to come. You are about to embark on
one of the most challenging and rewarding
adventures of your life and there are many
different factors to take into consideration.
We understand that trying to weigh up all of this

information can be difficult, particularly when
there are so many places to look to find it. This
publication is designed with this in mind to draw
together information about the natural sciences
courses, the University, our Students Union and
the city of Nottingham to help you to make the
best decision for you.
In addition to the quality of the degree you will

earn during your time at University you also want
to consider the experiences you will have, the
friends you will make, the opportunities you will
encounter and the position you will find yourself in
when you have finished.
Natural Sciences Nottingham

@UONNatSci
Front cover image:

A student working in one of the break-out areas in the Engineering and Science Learning Centre.
Students working in the Engineering and Science

Graduate Centre, University Park Campus.
1
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Why study natural sciences at

Nottingham?
In response to the ever-increasing demand
for graduates with expertise in a range of
scientific disciplines, we have introduced
undergraduate degree courses in natural
sciences that draw on the Universitys
internationally recognised teaching and
resources.
The natural sciences degrees have been designed
to allow you the flexibility to tailor your course
to your interests within a structured programme
which, allows you to study your chosen subjects
to degree level.
Successful completion of a natural sciences
degree will provide you with the academic
knowledge and practical experience for a wide
range of careers in science alongside valuable
transferable skills and the versatility to pursue
whichever career you choose.
Natural sciences is the course for you if:

you are enjoying two or more of the subjects you
are currently studying and would like to continue
studying them
you do not feel you are ready to specialise in a
single subject
you want to study a combination of subjects
which is not usually available at degree level,
such as biology and physics, chemistry
and maths, archaeology and chemistry, and
geography and biology
you want to gain a science degree which allows
you to keep your career options open
you are interested in a career where knowledge
of more than one science is advantageous
Our teaching quality
Nottingham has an outstanding record for

teaching and receives consistently high ratings
in the Teaching Quality Assurance Agencys
assessments.
One of the major strengths of the teaching at
Nottingham comes from our ability to bring the
latest scientific developments to the classroom.
The combination of international research
excellence and state-of-the-art facilities for
teaching creates an engaging, dynamic and
intellectually challenging learning environment.
In addition, the University has a student-focused
approach to both teaching and personal and
academic support.
Our research
In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework the

University was ranked 8th in the UK for research
power and many natural sciences subjects
are towards the top of the quality rankings
for their field. Research areas across natural
sciences include bioarchaeology, molecular
and developmental biology, green and analytical
chemistry and clean technology, environmental
change, geoinformatics, industrial mathematics,
magnetic resonance imaging and behavioural
neuroscience.
Although this may not mean much to you at the
moment, when you come to study with us you will
have the opportunity to understand, and develop
an interest in, one or more of these areas through
advanced modules which take you towards the
frontiers of modern science.
Students meet to discuss a group project.

3
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Degree courses
Three or four years?
The BSc degree is aimed at students who want

to gain a broad understanding of their chosen
areas of science and study two subjects to
degree level.
The MSci degree builds upon the three-year BSc

course giving you the opportunity to undertake
independent research in a professional laboratory
environment. It provides you with the additional
skills you need to pursue a career in research.
The course equips you with the skills and

knowledge needed for a wide variety of careers
and postgraduate opportunities in the sciences
and beyond.
You can transfer between the BSc and the MSci

degree at any point during the first two years of
study provided you meet the necessary criteria
for progression.
Natural Sciences
UCAS code
Duration
A levels
IB
Places
Single honours
BSc Natural Sciences
FGC0
3 years
A*AA
38
37
MSci Natural Sciences
GFC0
4 years
A*AA
38
38
Course structure
The natural sciences courses at Nottingham are

single honours degrees which combine material
from different subjects, allowing you to choose
which subjects you are most interested in and
specialise gradually over the course of your
degree. The following subjects can be taken in
various combinations:
Archaeology
Biological Sciences
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Geography
Mathematics
Physics
Psychology
Natural sciences students study alongside
students on single and joint honours degrees,
moving between the different schools. This
allows you to gain a firm understanding of the
multidisciplinary nature of science as well as
exposure to different styles of teaching and
thought in the individual disciplines.
In the first year, you study equal weightings of

each of the three subjects which make up your
first year pathway. During the second year, you
choose two of your first-year subjects to continue
studying in equal weightings. In the third year,
you continue to build on your knowledge from the
second year, undertaking advanced study in the
same two subjects.
In addition, in your third year you will take
the synoptic module which looks across the
boundaries of individual subjects, bringing
students from different pathways together to
work on an interdisciplinary project and gain
valuable skills in critically evaluating literature,
analysing data and discussing future directions
for scientific research.
The main focus of the fourth year of the MSci is
on completing a major research project in one of
the subjects you have studied. This is a fantastic
opportunity to enhance your subject knowledge
with professional skills in research, which you
will need should you choose to pursue a career
in this area. Alongside your project work you can
explore one or both of your other subject interests
through specialist taught classes.
Preparing for a lecture in the

Mathematical Sciences Building.
5
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
What will I study?

Archaeology
Available with:
Biological Sciences and Chemistry
Biological Sciences and Geography
Geography and Chemistry
Mathematics and Chemistry
Archaeologists study all periods ranging from the
earliest origins of humanity to later prehistoric
and historically documented societies, developing
their knowledge by studying material remains. It is
a naturally multidisciplinary subject which brings
together the sciences and humanities.
Over the second and third years you will develop

your knowledge of techniques and approaches to
archaeology, and will also have the opportunity to
explore your interests through optional modules
as well as taking part in independent research
through a dissertation.
If you are continuing archaeology beyond the
first year you are required to gain excavation
experience in the UK or overseas. Opportunities
are advertised in the department, and we will
assist you with securing a placement.
The archaeological strand of the natural sciences

degrees focuses on the scientific side of the
subject. During the first year you will develop your
knowledge of the scientific techniques that
archaeologists use to study ancient societies
and learn to integrate scientific approaches with
human perspectives on the past.
Archaeology
Year one
Year two
Year three
Year four
Core modules
Introduction and
Approaches to
Archaeology
Environmental
Archaeology
Core modules
Archaeology of
Technology and
Production
Bioarchaeology
Archaeological
Ceramics
History, Theory
and Practice of
Archaeology
Core modules
Synoptic Project
Core modules
Archaeology
Dissertation
Optional modules
Human Origins:
From First Humans
to Farmers
Introduction to
Archaeology of the
Roman Empire
Prehistory from the
Bronze Age to the
Iron Age
Introduction
to Medieval
Archaeology
Optional modules
Archaeology in the
UK
Britain in the
Western Roman
Empire
Prehistoric Britain
Archaeological
Detective:
Interpreting the Dead
Optional modules
Ancient Metallurgy:
Archaeology and
Experiment
Professional
Bioarchaeology
Through a Glass
Darkly
Topics in Human
Evolution
Extended Essay
Commensal Politics;
Food, Plants and
Social Change
Archaeology
Dissertation
Optional modules
Special Topics in
Archaeology 1
Special Topics in
Archaeology 2
I love the variety and breadth of natural

sciences and having a full timetable that
involves studying different subjects from
one hour to the next in different buildings
around campus; it helps to keep things
interesting.
Ellie Cooke
MSci Natural Sciences (third year)
7
Natural Sciences
Biological Sciences
Available with:
Archaeology and Chemistry
Archaeology and Geography
Chemistry and Mathematics
Environmental Science and Chemistry
Geography and Mathematics
Physics and Mathematics
Psychology and Chemistry
Psychology and Mathematics
Biological sciences is the study of life and living
organisms. It is a vast field which incorporates
many different branches and sub-disciplines.
Our lecturers in biological sciences are experts in
their field and can incorporate their own leading
research into their teaching.
Natural Sciences
The biological strand of natural sciences is built

around a core of biochemistry, molecular biology,
cell biology and genetics. During the first year
you study foundation modules to prepare you
for study in these areas alongside practical
experience and skills from a laboratory module.
After the first year, you will be able to tailor your
studies with optional modules and either focus
entirely on the core areas or take a broader
range of options from areas including physiology,
neurobiology, developmental biology, plant
science or evolution.
The majority of teaching on this strand is based
at University Park Campus but there are a
small number of modules in the second, third
and fourth years which are taught at Sutton
Bonington Campus, which is easily reached by
the Universitys free hopper bus.
Biological Sciences
Year one
Year two
Year three
Year four
Core modules
Cell Structure and
Metabolism
Genes and Cellular
Control
Core modules
Manipulating Genes
and Genomes
Protein: Structure
and Function
Cell Biology
Introductory Signals
and Metabolic
Regulation
Core modules
Synoptic Project
Molecular Biology
Lab Skills
Core modules
Life Sciences Project
Research Planning and
Preparation
Research Presentation
Skills
Optional modules
Cell Structure and
Metabolism Practical
Introduction to
Human Physiology
and Pharmacology
Genes and Cellular
Control Practical
Plant Science
Optional modules
Molecular and
Developmental
Neurobiology
Medical Molecular
Genetics
Neuronal Signalling
Molecular Biology of
the Cell
Immunobiology
Evolutionary Biology
of Animals
Developmental
Biology
Lipid Metabolism
and Oxidative
Phosphorylation
Optional modules
Human Variation
Aging, Sex and DNA
Repair
Molecular
and Cellular
Neuroscience
Gene Regulation
Population Genetics
Cancer Biology
Molecular Evolution
Advanced
Developmental
Biology
Advanced
Biochemistry
Applied
Environmental
Physiology
Biochemistry of
Disease
Optional modules
Cutting-Edge
Research
Technologies and
Ideas in Molecular
Biology
Advanced
Experimental Design
and Analysis
Process and Practice
in Science
Current Trends in
Neuroscience
Chemistry
Available with:
Archaeology and Biological Sciences
Archaeology and Geography
Biological Sciences and Mathematics
Environmental Science and Biological Sciences
Environmental Science and Geography
Geography and Biological Sciences
Mathematics and Archaeology
Psychology and Biological Sciences
In the first year of the chemistry strand of natural

sciences you will study organic, inorganic and
physical chemistry, alongside gaining practical
laboratory experience in each branch. As a result
of this comprehensive study, if you continue
chemistry beyond the first year you are able to
choose whether you study all three branches of
chemistry or focus on your interests.
For all chemists, laboratory work is one of the
most important skills you develop during your
degree. You will be introduced to a range of
current synthetic and analytical approaches, as
well as the operation of modern instrumentation in
well equipped labs.
Chemistry is the key to understanding the natural

world and to enhancing our quality of life and the
environment. The School of Chemistry is ranked
second in the country for research power and
with a proven ability to incorporate cutting-edge
research into teaching you will experience the very
best that the subject has to offer.
Chemistry
Year one
Year two
Year three
Year four
Core modules
Introductory Lab
Work
Introductory
Inorganic Chemistry
Introductory Organic
Chemistry
Introductory Physical
Chemistry
Core modules
Core Lab Work
Core modules
Synoptic Project
Advanced Lab
Techniques
Core modules
Chemistry Research
Project
Optional modules
Intermediate Organic
Synthesis
Synthetic Organic
Chemistry
Intermediate Physical
Chemistry
Spectroscopy and
Quantum Chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry
Atmospheric
Chemistry
Principles of
Analytical Chemistry
Optional modules
Organometallic
and Asymmetric
Synthesis
Pericyclic Chemistry
and Reactive
Intermediates
Chemical Bonding
and Reactivity
Solids, Interfaces and
Surfaces
Bioinorganic and
Metal Coordination
Chemistry
Catalysis
Chemical Biology
and Enzymes
Optional modules
Contemporary Organic
Synthesis
Advanced Inorganic
Chemistry
Contemporary Physical
Chemistry
Special Topics in
Chemistry X
Special Topics in
Chemistry Y
Enterprise for
Chemists
Self-Assembly
and Bottom-Up
Approaches to
Nanostructure
Modelling
10
Natural Sciences
Available with:
Environmental science provides a systemsbased approach to the analysis of environmental
problems, incorporating aspects of geography,
biology, chemistry and physics, to increase
understanding of the environment and propose
solutions to problems faced.
Study on the environmental science strand
of natural sciences allows you to gain a solid
understanding of the Earths processes, the way
in which organisms interact with their environment,
and how air, soil and water pollution can be
monitored, modelled and remediated.
Natural Sciences
The first year is made up of compulsory modules

which provide you with a broad overview of the
subject. As you move through to later years of
the course you get the opportunity to focus your
study with optional choices. Practical work is
an essential aspect of environmental study and
you have the opportunity to gain experience in
both the field and the laboratory throughout your
degree*.
* Some of the modules with field work may require a
contribution from the student towards the cost.
Teaching in the first year of the environmental

sciences strand is based entirely at University
Park Campus but some modules in the second,
third and fourth year are taught at Sutton
Bonington Campus, which is easily reached by the
Universitys free hopper bus.
Year one
Year two
Year three
Year four
Core modules
Global Environmental
Processes
Environmental
Science and Society
Plant Science
Environmental
Geoscience
Core modules
Soil Science
Climate Change
Science
Hydrogeochemistry
Core modules
Synoptic Project
Core modules
Project
Optional modules
Environmental
Science Field
Course
Ecosystem
Processes
Plant Physiology:
Principles of
Resource Capture
Hydrogeochemistry
Field Course
Computer Modelling
in Science:
Introduction
Optional modules
Soil and Water
Science
Contaminant Fate
and Impact in the
Environment
Computer Modelling
in Science
Soil and Water
Pollution and
Reclamation
Geobiology
Environmental
Microbiology
Environmental
Pollution Field
Course
Arctic Ecology Field
Course
Optional modules
Statistics and
Experimental Design
for Bioscientists
Syndicate Exercise
Scientific Research
Methods
Writing and Reviewing
Research Proposals
A student testing pH levels in the

lake on University Park Campus.
11
12
Natural Sciences
Geography
Available with:
Archaeology and Biological Sciences
Environmental Science and Chemistry
Geography is the study of the Earths landscapes,
environments, people and places. The geography
strand of natural sciences is entirely physical
geography, meaning that the focus is on
understanding the dynamics of the physical
landscape and the environment.
Natural Sciences
During the first year you will gain a good

grounding of physical geography, including the
principles which underlie climate, atmospheric
circulation, geomorphology, biogeography, ocean
currents, ecology, fluvial systems, hydrology and
environmental change. You will also have small
group support classes which help you to develop
skills such as essay writing and presentation skills.
Students looking at historical maps in

the Edwards Resource Centre.
In the second year you further develop your

geographic study skills through a module which
incorporates field work, lab work and surveying
techniques. Alongside this, you will have the
opportunity to choose optional modules in the
areas that interest you most. The third year
allows you to continue exploring your interests
either through taught classes or by undertaking
independent research through a dissertation in the
subject of your choosing.
Geography
Year one
Year two
Year three
Year four
Core modules
Earth and
Environmental
Dynamics
Geography Tutorial
Core modules
Techniques in
Physical Geography
Core modules
Synoptic Project
Core modules
Geography
Dissertation (MSci)
Optional modules
Physical Landscapes
of Britain
Introduction
to Geographic
Information Systems
On Earth and Life
13
Optional modules
Dissertation
Preparation
Desert
Geomorphology
Patterns of Life
River Channel Forms
and Dynamics
Environmental
Change
Digital Explorers:
Finding Geospatial
Patterns in a
Changing World
Earth Observation
Optional modules
Geospatial
Technologies
Geography
Dissertation (BSc)
Ecosystem Service
and Human Well
Being
Quaternary
Environments
Global Climate
Change
River Management
and Restoration
Mobile and Field GIS
Scale and Diversity in
the Canary Islands
Environmental
Informatics and
Monitoring
Advances in Remote
Sensing
Optional modules
Geographical
Research Methods
Fundamentals
of Geographic
Information Science
Foundations of
Environmental
Management
Advances in Remote
Sensing
Ecosystem Service
and Human Well Being
14
Natural Sciences
Mathematics
Available with:
Biological Sciences and Physics
Biological Sciences and Psychology
Chemistry and Geography
Chemistry and Physics
Geography and Biological Sciences
Physics and Geography
Physics and Psychology
Psychology and Chemistry
Mathematics is the language of science,
technology and commerce and underpins
applications from telecommunications to the origin
of the universe and from the human genome to
financial markets.
The natural sciences degrees at Nottingham are
unique in including mathematics as a full subject,
allowing students to study it alongside traditional
sciences rather than as an accessory to their
other studies.
Natural Sciences
The mathematics strand of natural sciences

focuses on applied mathematics, covering aspects
such as calculus, linear algebra, statistics and
number theory. Over years two and three you will
have opportunities to focus your study on your
interests, picking up modules in specialist areas
such as scientific computation, stochastic models,
mathematical medicine and game theory.
If you have not studied further mathematics to
A level you may find that you have to work a little
bit harder in the first year as more of the topics
you encounter may be new to you. You will not
be disadvantaged in the long term after the first
year all students are on an equal footing and those
entering without further mathematics do just as
well in subsequent years.
If you have taken further maths you will still find
plenty to challenge you as the syllabus contains
material that is new to all students and even topics
which you have already encountered will take on
a new slant.
Physics
Available with:
Physics is a fundamental subject which serves
as the foundation of knowledge for most areas
of science and engineering. Advances in physics
are directly responsible for transforming the
modern landscape and developing many of the
technologies which are commonplace in todays
society from computers to refrigerators, mobile
phones to television.
The physics strand of natural sciences is fairly

prescriptive for the first three years, since the
areas of physics you study will depend on the
other subjects you have chosen. In the first year
you take a single module introducing you to the
core concepts which underpin study in later years,
including classical mechanics, wave phenomena,
relativity, electromagnetism and quantum physics.
If you continue with physics and maths beyond
the first year then you will follow a theoretical
route through physics, while if you continue with
physics and any other subject you will follow an
experimental route and begin taking practical
laboratories in the second year.
The School of Physics and Astronomy at

Nottingham is one of the strongest in the UK for
research and is ranked third for research power.
The schools ability to bring this excellence and
innovation directly into teaching has made the
courses some of the most popular in the country.
Physics
Mathematics
Year one
Year two
Year three
Year four
Core modules
Calculus and Linear
Algebra
Analytical and
Computational
Foundations
Core modules
Differential Equations
and Fourier Analysis
Vector Calculus
Modelling for
Core modules
Synoptic Project
Core modules
Mathematics Project
Optional modules
Advanced Quantum
Theory
Relativity
Mathematical
Medicine and Biology
Fluid Dynamics
Electromagnetism
Coding and
Cryptography
Game Theory
Statistical Inference
Stochastic Models
Mathematical
Finance
Graph Theory
Topics in Scientific
Computation
Optional modules
Advanced Techniques
for Differential
Equations
Introduction to
Quantum Information
Science
Advanced Fluid
Mechanics
Elasticity
Theoretical
Neuroscience
Topics in Biomedical
Mathematics
Programming for
Scientific Computing
Advanced Stochastic
Processes
Variational Methods
Optional modules
Introduction to
Numerical Methods
Probability
Statistics
Introduction to
Mathematical
Physics
15
Year one
Year two
Year three
Year four
Core modules
From Newton to
Einstein
Core modules
The Quantum World
Core modules
Synoptic Project
Atoms, Photons
and Fundamental
Particles
Physics Lab Project
Core modules
Physics Research
Project
Optional modules
Classical Fields
Experimental
Techniques and
Instrumentation
Thermal and
Statistical Physics
Optics and
Electromagnetism
Optional modules
Thermal and
Statistical Physics
Introduction to Solid
State Physics
Optional modules
Solid State Physics
From Accelerators to
Imaging
Atmospheric Physics
Introduction to
Cosmology
Soft Condensed
Matter
Theoretical Particle
Physics
Extreme Astrophysics
Functional Medical
Imaging
Imaging and
Manipulation at the
Nanoscale
Semiconductor
Physics
16
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Psychology
Available with:
Psychology is the scientific study of mental
processes, human behaviour, its origins and the
context in which that behaviour occurs. It can be
broken down into different areas: the biological
perspective, concerned with the structure and
function of the nervous system; the cognitive view,
looking at functions like memory, language and
perception; the social side, studying interactions
and how individuals in groups behave; and the
developmental approach, interested in how
behaviours develop from childhood through to
adulthood.
The psychology strand of natural sciences is

purely theoretical allowing you to focus on the
areas of psychology which interest you most. You
are able to choose which topics in psychology
to study from the very first year and develop your
knowledge further with each year of study.
A student taking part in a stroop

task in a psychology lab.
There is a wide range of options in the third year

which enable you to specialise in discrete areas
such as neuroscience, developmental disorders,
social issues and cognition as well as applied
areas like clinical psychology and forensic mental
health.
* Please note that psychology is not available in the fourth
year.
Psychology
17
Year one
Year two
Year three
Core modules
Cognitive Psychology
Introduction to Social
Psychology
Biological Psychology
Introduction to Developmental
Psychology
Core modules
Cognitive Psychology 2
Social and Developmental
Psychology
Neuroscience and Behaviour
Personality and Individual
Difference
Conceptual and Historical
Issues in Psychology
Core modules
Synoptic Project
Optional modules
Cognitive Development and
Learning
Educational Psychology
Forensic and Mental Health
Neuropsychology and Applied
Neuroimaging
Understanding Patterns of
Action
The Visual Brain: Evolution,
Development, Learning and
Adaptation
Altruism, Cooperation and
Helping
Clinical Psychology
Developmental Dyslexia
Cognition in the Real World
Applied Psychology: RoadUser Behaviour
Understanding Developmental
Disorders
18
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
How will I study?

Teaching and learning
Your learning experience will incorporate different

styles of teaching including formal lectures and
practical laboratories, as well as small group
sessions such as tutorials, seminars and problem
classes. Lecture-based theory modules form
the backbone of your studies, stimulating your
curiosity, providing you with essential information
and giving you the opportunity to hear academic
staff talk passionately about their subject.
Through laboratory classes, computer workshops
and working in the field you reinforce the theory
you have learnt alongside gaining hands-on
experience and developing professional practical
skills. Teaching is supported by smaller group
classes which give you the opportunity to work
through problems yourself, discuss ideas, try out
different arguments and ask questions to cement
your understanding of the subject.
In order to fully absorb what you are learning you
will also need to spend time outside of teaching
hours going over what you have learned, thinking
about the underlying ideas and trying problems out
for yourself. You might prefer to work on your own
for this, but if you want to work with other students
from your course there are numerous spaces you
can use around the University, including open
study spaces and group study rooms available to
reserve.
Credits the building blocks of

your degree
All undergraduate degree programmes at the

University are modular. This means that each
subject is broken down into blocks of study called
modules self-contained units of study which may
run for either a semester or across the year.
The majority of modules you encounter are 10 or

20 credits and you will study a total of 120 credits
in each year. A 10-credit module roughly equates
to 100 hours of work which includes all taught
aspects (lectures, labs, seminars, workshops,
tutorials etc) as well as any self-study, revision and
coursework preparation.
The modular system provides you with flexibility
in the way in which you construct your course as
some modules are core while others are optional.
The balance between core and optional modules
varies by pathway.
Library and computing services
Key Information Sets
Students can make use of computer rooms

with print and scan facilities located around our
campuses, several of which are available 24/7.
You will also find wireless access is available at
more than 500 points on campus giving you the
freedom and flexibility to work where it suits you.
For Nottinghams KIS data, please see individual

course entries at:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy
At Nottingham, you will benefit from access to an

extensive collection of printed and online library
resources. In addition, you will have both on
and off campus access to a very wide range of
databases, ejournals and ebooks, relevant to the
different subjects you are studying.
Key Information Sets (KIS) are comparable sets of

information about full or part-time undergraduate
courses that are designed to meet the information
needs of prospective students. All KIS data is
published on the Unistats website:
www.unistats.co.uk
Pastoral support
Your personal tutor is on hand throughout your

degree to help you cope with your studies, think
ahead for your career and support you through
University. They will provide you with feedback
on your performance, take an interest in your
academic progress and wellbeing and act as
first point of contact for any guidance needed on
academic and personal matters.
You will also have access to a subject tutor in
each of the subjects that you are studying, who is
there to help you out with any concerns relating
to that subject, whether it is choosing modules or
assisting you if you need help.
In addition to the more formal avenues of support
mentioned above or on page 34, your course
coordinator will always be happy to see you
whether you just want to pop in for a quick chat,
have questions about the course or are feeling a
bit overwhelmed and need to talk to someone.
In the fourth year you get to work on a

current research project in one of the
schools, working alongside academic staff
and researchers to apply what you have
been learning throughout your degree and
be part of something much bigger than just
your own studies.
Michelle Bound
MSci Natural Sciences (graduated 2013)
19
20
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Sample timetable
Your typical timetable at University will be very
different from the one you had at school or
college; there are fewer timetabled teaching
hours, and for the rest of the time you will be
expected to work independently, doing the
necessary reading in preparation for classes
and writing up assignments.
9.00
Monday
9.30
10.00
Each week students can expect between 18 and

24 hours of formal teaching including lectures,
labs and tutorials. In general, subjects which have
less contact time will require you to complete
more work outside of classes, such as reading
and other preparatory work. A typical timetable
for a first-year student is shown below.
10.30
11.00
11.30
Molecular Structure
and Bonding
12.30
1.002.00
2.00
Intro to Human
Physiology and
Pharmacology
Lecture and
workshop
Tuesday
12.00
2.30
3.00
3.30
Calculus and Linear

Algebra
4.00
4.30
5.00
5.30
Intro to Human
Physiology and
Pharmacology
Intro to Human
Physiology and
Pharmacology
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
Molecular Structure
and Bonding
Calculus and Linear

Algebra
Calculus and Linear

Algebra
Lecture and
workshop
Workshop
Tutorial
Probability
Introduction to
Laboratory Work
Lecture
Wednesday
Lecture
Introduction to Laboratory Work

Practical class
Thursday
Chemical and
Equilibria, Rates
and Spectroscopy
Cell Structure and

Metabolism
Cell Structure and

Metabolism
Cell Structure and

Metabolism
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture and
workshop
Friday
Probability
Cell Structure and

Metabolism
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
21
Probability
Calculus and Linear

Algebra
Lecture
22
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
How will I be assessed?
Modules are typically assessed at the end

of the semester in which they are taught but
some may have individual components or
continuous assessments during the semester.
Assessment may be by coursework or
examination, or more often by a combination
of the two.
Coursework may include:
Lab reports
Essays
Problem sheets
Oral presentations
Dissertations
Poster presentations
Examinations may be comprised of different
question types such as short answer, long answer,
essay questions or multiple choice, or even a
mixture of different types of question. You are told
at the start of each module about the style and
format of examinations and in many cases you will
have access to past exam papers to practice.
Feedback on your assessments
You can monitor your progress during your studies

through feedback on completed coursework and
examination performance. Coursework is usually
returned with written comments for you to go
through in your own time. General feedback on
exams is usually provided at a modular level but it
is possible to get more specific feedback on your
exam performance on request.
23
Students sitting an exam in the Great Hall,

Trent Building University Park Campus.
The teaching year
The teaching year is divided into two semesters.

with each semester being made up of 12 weeks
of teaching followed by two to three weeks of
assessment.
The teaching year is divided into two semesters
for organisational purposes, this is fitted into
the traditional pattern of three terms: one before
Christmas; one between Christmas and Easter;
and one after Easter.
Your final degree classification
On both the BSc and MSci courses, the first year

allows time for an adjustment to University study
and ensures that each student is brought up to
the same level and provided with the grounding
needed for subsequent years; it is referred to
as the qualifying year. The work in the qualifying
year is crucial to your understanding and you
must successfully complete this year in order to
progress. However, your marks from the qualifying
year will not count towards your final degree
classification.
On the BSc, the final degree mark is comprised
of results from your second and third years in a
ratio of 1:2. On the MSci, the marks in the second,
third and fourth years are used in the final degree
classification in the ratio 1:2:2.
24
Natural Sciences
Study abroad
Natural Sciences
As a University of Nottingham student, you will

be able to apply for a variety of study abroad
options. Whether studying at a partner institution
or undertaking a work experience placement,
spending time abroad is a fantastic opportunity
to broaden your horizons, experience different
cultures, meet new people and develop skills that
will prove invaluable in the future and also look
good on your CV.
Dedicated support
If you do decide to apply to study abroad, the

Universitys International Office will offer support
from the application stage right through to your
return to the UK, with advice on everything from
immigration to possible sources of financial
support. Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/studyabroad
Some examples of the partner institutions you

could apply to include:
University of Sydney, Australia
University of Toronto, Canada
University of Auckland, New Zealand
University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
University of Cape Town, South Africa
National University of Singapore, Singapore
University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
During your degree you will be able to apply

to study abroad in several countries, including
Hong Kong.
25
26
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Career and employment

prospects
Increasingly employers want well educated
scientists who have the transferable skills and
experience needed for life in the 21st century
workplace.
Scientific research at the boundaries of the
traditional disciplines is becoming of greater
importance. As a result, employers are increasingly
looking for graduates with expertise in a range
of science subjects. A natural sciences degree
provides you with academic knowledge in more
than one science subject alongside professional
and transferable skills such as time management,
communication and problem solving, and leaves
you well prepared regardless of the career path
you choose.
In addition to earning a degree during your time
at Nottingham you will have the opportunity to
take part in social and academic activities that will
help you to develop your other interests and skills,
making yourself more desirable to recruiters.
The University of Nottingham is the most targeted
university by Britains leading graduate employers.*
Graduate career destinations
Many of our graduates decide to continue studies

at higher-degree level, either here at Nottingham
or elsewhere. In previous years our students have
gone on to further study in:
MSc Cancer Research and Molecular
Biomedicine The University of Manchester
MSc Population Biology University of Bath
MSc Computer Science Imperial College
London
PhD Pathology University of Oxford and
National Institute for Biological Standards and
Control
PhD Physical Chemistry The University of
Nottingham
27
Of our graduates entering employment directly

after graduation, typical recent destinations
include:
Cancer Research UK
Yorkshire Bank
Price Waterhouse Cooper
Barclays Investment Bank
Pell Frischmann (Consulting Engineers)
Associate British Foods PLC
Teach First
Recent graduates
Carl Alexander Strategy and Research Funding

Graduate, Cancer Research UK; Sarah-Anne Bee
Analyst in Global Markets, Barclays Investment
Bank; Pell Frischmann (Consulting Engineers);
Daniel Gallanders Science Teacher, Teach
First; Frances Hamilton Graduate Floor Risk
Engineer; Maya Kolaska Business Consultant,
BAE Systems.
Work experience, laboratory

placements and summer projects
Many academic departments at Nottingham offer

students the opportunity to undertake practical
work experience. This could be over the summer
or during other vacation periods and could take
place within a laboratory or in the field, either
through structured programmes or by special
request. This type of placement allows students
to gain valuable professional experience which
can be directly related to the subjects they study.
In addition there are numerous opportunities for
internships outside of the University in scientific
industries, healthcare or the business sector.
The Careers and Employability Service advertise
a wide variety of placements and can provide
students with advice and guidance on how to find
the type of experience they want.
The Nottingham Advantage Award
The Universitys Advantage Award is a

programme of activities developed to recognise
and reward extracurricular responsibilities. It
allows you to gain recognition for participating
in a wide range of activities accredited by the
University and shows employers that you have
gained valuable skills.
In addition to other modules which are available,

it is possible for students acting as Student
Ambassadors for Natural Sciences to use this
work to count towards the Advantage Award.
This allows students to gain paid work experience
alongside helping to promote their course to
prospective students and accruing credits for the
award. For further information, please visit
www.nottingham.ac.uk/advantageaward
Learning a language
Due to the challenge of combining multiple

subjects it is not possible for natural sciences
students to study languages for credits during
their time at Nottingham. However, students are
still able to keep up their language skills or learn a
new language during their time here; we have 12
different languages available as evening classes
which can be taken as stand-alone modules
or can contribute towards the Nottingham
Advantage Award, see the Language Centre
website for more information:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/languagecentre
Careers and Employability Service
Our Careers and Employability Service, which

is based on University Park Campus, offers an
extensive range of careers-oriented services,
including CV-writing sessions, interview advice,
presentations by major employers and general
career advice.
As a University of Nottingham graduate, you will
receive lifelong support from the service. This
means that you can ask a careers adviser to look
over your job application by email or Skype, or
in person, and you can also access a database
of graduate vacancies. For more information see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/careers
* The Graduate Market in 2014 High Fliers Research.
A student reading before a seminar in

the Mathematical Sciences Building.
28
Natural Sciences
Where can a natural sciences

degree take me?
Your degree is the first step in securing the
career you want. To give you an idea about
where your degree could take you, here are
some examples of the different career sectors
and types of jobs for which a natural sciences
graduate is particularly well suited.
Having a degree, and particularly a science
degree, will open doors but there are some
careers that will require you to undertake further
education or training.
Natural Sciences
Teaching and
education:
Primary teacher
Secondary teacher
Lecturer
Educational officer
Education
administration
Media and
publishing:
Science journalist
Media planner
Programme
researcher
Editorial assistant
Editor
Public relations
Banking and
finance:
Actuary
Chartered
accountant
Financial advisor
Corporate
investment banker
Insurance broker
Legal:
Patent
attorney
Barrister
Solicitor
Environment and
agriculture:
Ecologist
Environmental
consultant
Marine scientist
Soil scientist
Conservation officer
Agrogeochemist
Natural
sciences
Charity and
voluntary:
Community
education officer
International aid
worker
Development officer
Charity researcher
Lobbyist
Campaigner
Medicine and
healthcare:
Nurse
Doctor
Veterinarian
Medical
researcher
There are a wide range of careers open

to graduates of natural sciences.
29
Science:
Research scientist
Scientific technician
Clinical researcher
Product/process
development
scientist
Forensic scientist
Business, management
and consultancy:
Management consultant
HR advisor
Health service manager
Public affairs consultant
Office manager
Logistics manager
Energy and utilities:

Energy manager
Water quality
scientist
Hydrogeologist
Geoscientist
Petroleum engineer
Engineering and
manufacturing:
Biomedical
engineering
Chemical engineer
Energy engineer
Quality manager
Public sector:
Civil servant
Government officer
Waste management
officer
Intelligence analyst
Local government
officer
Politician
30
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
I chose natural sciences because the choice

and flexibility really appealed to me. It gives me
the opportunity to study more than one aspect of
science, but each branch in sufficient depth. Its
going really well and Im really enjoying it.
Dominic Mistry/MSc Natural Sciences
Find out more about Dominics experience at

www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugvideos/
dominicmistry
Scan the code to

watch this video on
your smartphone.
Dominic is preparing for a seminar in the Engineering

and Science Learning Centre.
31
32
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Your student experience

everything you need to know
Youve read lots about the degree programme

you are interested in, now its time to explore
life outside of the lecture theatre. Read on to
discover why being a student at The University
of Nottingham is a truly exciting experience.
We are proud to be one of the most popular
universities in the UK and are dedicated to
providing every student with the opportunity to
fulfil their academic, artistic, personal and sporting
potential. There really is something for everyone to
get involved in, and you may be surprised at the
sheer volume of activities and opportunities on
offer, all designed to make your time at university
as memorable as possible. University is not all
work, work, work; there is much more to it than
that!
Your University of Nottingham at

home and around the world
We are proud of our stunning campuses and are

continually investing in our grounds, buildings and
facilities to ensure that you have only the best
surroundings in which to live and study. Our main
UK campuses have all gained external recognition,
in the form of numerous awards over the years,
and its not hard to see why. A free bus ride can
transport you from the striking architecture and
innovative technology of Jubilee Campus, to rolling
parkland and period buildings at University Park,
through to the rural and beautiful setting of Sutton
Bonington. Combine this with features including
sports centres, cafes, art galleries, shops,
woodland, contemporary gardens and extensive
wildlife, and you have an outstanding environment
that inspires and excites students and visitors
alike.
Your support network
Throughout your University journey there will

be numerous people on hand to support you,
including tutors and dedicated staff who will be
able to advise you on various aspects of life as
a student.
In addition, our Student Services Centres provide
a range of support, information and specialist
services to enhance your student experience, and
form part of a comprehensive network of services
at the University, designed to support you through
your studies.
Academic Support provide a personal and
practical approach to academic study the
service also provides specialist academic support
for students with dyslexia, dyspraxia and other
specific learning difficulties; Disability Support
coordinates support and access arrangements
for disabled students and those with long-term
medical conditions; Financial Support provides
information on the sources of finance available
from government agencies and the University
itself, and gives advice about financial matters.
Student Services also offer advice on paying your
tuition and accommodation fees as well as on
issues ranging from childcare, counselling and
health to international student support, chaplaincy
and faith support. Whatever you may need
support with, they will be able to help or point you
in the direction of someone who can. Find out
more: www.nottingham.ac.uk/studentservices
With campuses in China and Malaysia, as

well as links with more than 300 universities in
over worldwide, studying at The University of
Nottingham will also give your degree a truly
global perspective and the chance to explore the
world around you. Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/about/campuses
Students catching up between lectures outside

the Trent Building on University Park Campus.
33
34
Natural Sciences
Your new home from home
The University of Nottingham offers a guarantee of

University accommodation for one year to all new
full-time undergraduate students, subject to the
following conditions: that you make Nottingham
your firm choice, return your accommodation
application by the set deadline*, accept your offer
of accommodation by the deadline given, and have
an unconditional status no later than August 2015.
If you are an international student, this guarantee
applies for three years. Rooms are available as
single or shared, en suite or shared bathroom,
all the way through to studio flats, and vary from
self-catered, partially catered (five evening meals
per week) to fully catered (19 meals per week).
We have halls of residence on campus and off
campus if youd prefer. Prices reflect the room and
facilities chosen. For more information, including a
breakdown of the pricing, see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/accommodation
* For details of the deadline, please check
www.nottingham.ac.uk/accommodation
Getting involved in your

Students Union
As soon as you start at The University of

Nottingham, you are automatically a member of
the Students Union, considered one of the best
in the country. There are hundreds of activities
that you could be a part of, providing you with the
perfect opportunity to take up a new hobby or
pursue existing interests. Choose from over 200
student-run societies, covering all interests and
abilities, more than 70 sports clubs, as well as
local and national volunteering projects, to which
you can commit as much or as little time as
you wish.
The Students Union is also home to a number
of highly professional student-run media
groups, which enable you to gain practical work
experience both behind the scenes or centre
stage as a presenter, actor or journalist. The
Nottingham New Theatre, Impact magazine,
Nottingham Students TV (NSTV) and University
Radio Nottingham (URN) have all been
recognised as the best in their field, winning a
clutch of awards for outstanding achievements.
Natural Sciences
You could get involved with the Best Broadcaster,

the Guardian Student Publication of the Year, the
Best Student Station in the country or the winner
of seven awards at the National Student Drama
Festival.
However you decide to become involved, you can
be sure that you will make new friends and learn
new skills, as well as have a lot of fun! Find out
more: www.su.nottingham.ac.uk
Natural Sciences Society (NatSciSoc)

The aim of NatSciSoc is to bring all of the
students on this diverse course together and
have fun. The society introduces individuals from
different years and encourages them to integrate;
setting up links and friendships which help to
make everyones time at Nottingham something
special. Being part of the society means you
can take part in socials, join the societys sports
teams, enhance your employability with a variety of
workshops and take part in the annual trip abroad.
Exploring your new city
A 10-minute bus ride from University Park

Campus, Nottingham city centre has plenty
to offer, whatever you like to get up to in your
spare time. For music lovers, you can take your
pick from the world-famous Rock City, Capital
FM Arena or one of the smaller gig venues for a
more intimate musical experience. Nottingham
is also rich in performance venues, with comedy
clubs and theatres catering for lovers of drama,
musicals, ballet and panto. We are very proud of
our sporting heritage, and with Nottingham Forest
and Notts County football grounds, a test match
cricket ground, the National Water Sports Centre
and the National Ice Centre all on your doorstep,
you might just become a sports fan as well.
History and culture can be found in all corners

of the city, with Nottingham Castle, the Galleries
of Justice Museum, Nottingham Contemporary
one of the largest contemporary art spaces in the
UK, art house cinemas and three of the worlds
oldest pubs all providing points of interest. If you
enjoy shopping, Nottingham is perfect for you;
independent boutiques and vintage shops in the
bohemian area of Hockley mix with high street
names in our large shopping centres to make
Nottingham a veritable shopping haven.
Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/nottinghamlife
Download our city guide:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy/downloads
Sport at university
The University had 70 different sports clubs

covering a range of indoor and outdoor sports,
martial arts, water sports and outdoor pursuits. As
well as societies, it is also possible to get involved
with sport in a more competitive way through
intra-mural sport and the British Universities and
Colleges Sport (BUCS) league.
Weekly intra-mural sport fixtures are organised
for basketball, football, hockey, netball, rugby,
badminton, squash and tennis with teams from
across the University competing. Nottingham
has an excellent reputation for performance level
sport and has finished in the top ten of the BUCS
league for the past 15 years. The University has
62 teams across 16 different sports competing in
the league, going up against the best teams from
around the country.
For more information about sport at Nottingham,
see www.nottingham.ac.uk/sport
Nottingham city centre is always buzzing

with people and interesting sights.
35
36
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
Applying for a place
We are looking for students who have

the ability and motivation to benefit from
our courses, and who will make a valued
contribution to the school and the University.
Candidates for full-time admission are
considered on the basis of their Universities
and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS)
form. For more information on how to make
your application stand out, have a look at our
online prospectus: www.nottingham.ac.uk/
ugstudy/applying/applicationprocess
Application process
All applications for an undergraduate place to

study at The University of Nottingham (including
applications by overseas students) must be made
through UCAS. Applications should be made
online at www.ucas.com Candidates will be
notified of decisions through UCAS Track at
track.ucas.com
Entry numbers
For information on how many students the school

plans to admit on each course, please see the
table on page 5.
Your personal statement
This is the section of your UCAS form that tells

us most about you, and you should make the
best use of it. Be as specific and detailed as you
can we would like to see that you are a student
who can work hard, be self-motivated and make
the best possible use of the opportunities that our
courses offer you.
Required subjects
Most applicants will have studied three or more A

levels and will be expected to achieve a minimum
of an A in any required subjects. Our offers are
generally based upon the grades achieved in three
A levels and our typical offer is A*AA.
Subjects required are based on pathways, for

more information please see page 39.
Alternative qualifications
In this brochure you will find our A level entry

requirements but we accept a much broader
range of qualifications.
These include:
Advanced Diploma
BTEC HND/HNC
BTEC Extended Diploma
Cambridge Pre-U
International Baccalaureate
Irish Leaving Certificate
Scottish Advanced Highers
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma
This list is not exhaustive; we will consider
applicants with other qualifications on an
individual basis. The entry requirements for
alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for
example you may need to take certain modules
and achieve a specified grade in those modules.
Please contact us to discuss the transferability of
your qualification.
Flexible admissions policy
We recognise that some educational and personal

circumstances affect achievement. If we judge
that you have exceptional circumstances that
have adversely affected your achievement, we will
consider them when assessing your academic
potential. Some courses may vary the offer as a
result. For the most up to date information about
our offers, please see the course fact files in our
online prospectus and for more information about
this policy, please see www.nottingham.ac.uk/
ugstudy/applying
We encourage applications from mature students

(which means all those aged 21 or over when the
course begins). You should apply in the normal
way through UCAS. While we accept a range
of qualifications, you should check our specific
requirements on UCAS course entry profiles. If
in doubt, please contact the admissions tutor,
who will be happy to answer any specific queries
you have about applying as a mature student.
Please email your enquiries to naturalsciences@
nottingham.ac.uk or contact us on
+44 (0)115 823 2376.
More information for mature students can be
found at: www.nottingham.ac.uk/mature
Part-time study
The school does not currently offer any part-time

degree courses.
International applicants
We welcome applications from international

students and have students from many parts of
the world studying with us at undergraduate and
postgraduate level. All international candidates
for undergraduate courses should apply through
UCAS. The Universitys International Office offers
guidance and advice on matters such as visa
and immigration regulations, working and living
in the UK, entry requirements and preparing for
coming to Nottingham and arranges a Welcome
Programme for new international students
each September. If you would like to visit the
University and are unable to attend an open day,
the International Office will be happy to arrange
a tailor-made visit for you. For further information
please visit
www.nottingham.ac.uk/international
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element).

Pearson Test of English (Academic) 62 (minimum
55).
Deferred entry
Applicants who wish to defer their entry by a

year will not be at a disadvantage. Please tell us
about your plans for your gap year in your UCAS
personal statement. If you do decide to take a gap
year our advice is the following:
Do something useful or interesting with your
year out
Save up some money
Keep up with your subject knowledge, especially
physics and maths, so returning to your studies
will be easier
Equal opportunities policy
The University aims to create the conditions

whereby students and staff are treated solely on
the basis of their merits, abilities and potential,
regardless of gender, race, colour, nationality,
ethnic or national origin, age, socio-economic
background, disability, religious or political beliefs,
trade union membership, family circumstances,
sexual orientation or other irrelevant distinction.
For tips and advice at every step of your
application journey, visit our undergraduate
applicants area:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugapplicants
Mature applicants
37
38
Natural Sciences
Natural
Natural Sciences
Sciences
Subject pathways
Frequently asked questions
The subject-specific entry requirements depend on the combination of subjects which you
would like to study on our natural sciences degrees. Most pathways require at least two science
subjects from biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics.
The table below illustrates which subjects are required at A level or Higher Level for each of the
pathways we run.
Other
Other sciences*
Biology
Mathematics
Physics
Subjects
Chemistry
Pathways
Archaeology-Biological Sciences-Chemistry
Archaeology-Biological Sciences-Geography**
Archaeology-Geography-Chemistry**
Biological Sciences-Chemistry-Mathematics
Biological Sciences-Physics-Mathematics
Chemistry-Geography-Mathematics
Chemistry-Physics-Mathematics
Environmental Science-Biological Sciences-Chemistry
Environmental Science-Geography-Chemistry
Geography-Biological Sciences-Chemistry
Geography-Biological Sciences-Mathematics
Mathematical Sciences-Archaeology-Chemistry**
Physics-Geography-Mathematics
Physics-Psychology-Mathematics
Psychology-Biological Sciences-Chemistry
Psychology-Biological Sciences-Mathematics
* From biology, chemistry, environmental science, geography, geology, maths and physics, excluding any which are
already a required subject.
** Pathway unavailable for 2016 entry.
39
How much are the fees?
Like many universities in England, Nottingham

charges full-time UK and EU students an annual
tuition fee of 9,000. However, you will not have
to pay your fees while studying the government
will lend eligible students the money, which you
will start to pay back once you have left university
and are earning at least 21,000. For more
information, please see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/fees
Fees for students from outside the EU vary from
subject to subject. For more information, please
see the New international students section on
www.nottingham.ac.uk/fees
Can I change my mind about my

pathway after I have applied?
Yes the pathway choice is very flexible and it

is possible to change at any time during the
application process and right up until arrival at
Nottingham, provided that you meet the subject
requirements of the pathway you want to
change to.
Do you interview?
Applicants are not routinely interviewed. If you are

offered a place you will be invited to a UCAS visit
day. The aim of the visit is for you to ensure that
Nottingham meets your needs and aspirations. In
addition to a formal presentation, which provides
details of the courses we offer, you will be able
to meet members of the teaching staff and, very
importantly, some current undergraduates.
Am I more likely to get an offer for

the BSc than the MSci?
Applications for the BSc and MSci courses are

treated the same way so you are not more likely to
receive an offer for one than the other. If you are
unsure which option is best for you when you are
applying it is not a problem, you can transfer
between the BSc and the MSci degree at any

point during the first two years of study, provided
you meet the necessary grade requirements.
What bursaries and scholarships

are available?
Around a third of students at Nottingham are

likely to be eligible for a non-repayable University
of Nottingham Core Bursary. Some students will
also be eligible for support through Nottingham
Potential Bursaries and the National Scholarship
Programme. These are in addition to any support
you may receive from the government. For more
information please see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/financialsupport
If you are an international applicant (outside of the
EU), please see the New international students
section on www.nottingham.ac.uk/fees
What support is available for

students with children?
There is a range of services provided to support

students with children, including a University day
nursery, a playscheme and playcentre day care.
There is also a scheme to help students fund
childcare. For more information, see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/child-care
What support do you offer for

students with a disability or dyslexia?
The school, like the University, is committed
to promoting access for students who have
a disability, dyslexia or a long-term medical
condition. Services provided by the University
aim to enable students to fulfil the inherent
requirements of the course as independently as
possible. The Universitys Disability Statement,
which lists services, facilities and opportunities
available throughout the University can be viewed
at www.nottingham.ac.uk/disability
40
Natural Sciences
Visiting and contacting us
Open days
If youre considering applying to The University

of Nottingham you should try to attend one of the
University-wide open days, which are held in June
and September each year. Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/opendays
If youre unable to attend our open days in person
you can go on a virtual tour:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/virtualnottingham
Mini open days
Mini open days are much smaller than the main

open days and offer the opportunity to attend
various talks and tours as well as speak to current
students and academics. For further information
or to book a place on a mini open day, please
contact the Enquiry Centre on +44 (0)115 951
5559 or email
undergraduate-enquiries@nottingham.ac.uk
UCAS visit days
Most schools run UCAS visit days for candidates

who receive an offer, which are an opportunity
for you to see the school and the University for
yourself. You will hear about the school and its
courses from members of academic staff and they
will answer any questions you might have. There
will also be a short tour of the campus by current
students. You will be sent information on UCAS
visit days for the school from which you receive
an offer.
Other visits
If you wish to make an informal visit to the

University prior to applying here, you are welcome
to do so, but you should contact us in advance
if you wish to visit the school or speak to an
admissions tutor and we will do our best to oblige.
Contact us
For further information please contact:

Admissions Team
Natural Sciences
The University of Nottingham
University Park
Nottingham
NG7 2RD
t: +44 (0)115 823 2376
e: naturalsciences@nottingham.ac.uk
w: www.nottingham.ac.uk/naturalsciences
For international student enquiries,
please contact:
The International Office
t: +44 (0)115 951 5247
f: +44 (0)115 951 5155
e: international-office@nottingham.ac.uk
w: www.nottingham.ac.uk/international
You can also follow us through our social media
channels, all of which can be accessed via
www.nottingham.ac.uk/connect
#STUDYWHATYOULOVE
The University of Nottingham has made every effort to ensure that the
information in this brochure was accurate when published. Please
note, however, that the nature of the content means that it is subject
to change from time to time, and you should therefore consider the
information to be guiding rather than definitive. You should check the
Universitys website for any updates before you decide to accept a
place on a course.
The University of Nottingham 2015. All rights reserved.
41
STUDY WHAT
YOU L VE
This publication is available

in alternative formats:
t: +44 (0)115 951 4591
Printed January 2015.
Science and
Engineering
Your passion can

be your success.
Study what you love.
The world needs scientists and
engineers. But not just any scientists
or engineers. It needs people who
will transform their love of the subject
into life-changing inventions and
discoveries. If you have the enthusiasm,
we have the lecturers to fire it.
Find out more:

www.nottingham.ac.uk/
studywhatyoulove
42

Natural Sciences: Undergraduate Study 2015

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For general undergraduate

enquiries please contact:

The Enquiry Centre

Welcome to Natural Sciences

Making the decision about where to come to

We understand that trying to weigh up all of this

In addition to the quality of the degree you will

Natural Sciences Nottingham

Front cover image:

Students working in the Engineering and Science

Why study natural sciences at

Natural sciences is the course for you if:

Our teaching quality

Nottingham has an outstanding record for

In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework the

Students meet to discuss a group project.

Three or four years?

The BSc degree is aimed at students who want

The MSci degree builds upon the three-year BSc

The course equips you with the skills and

You can transfer between the BSc and the MSci

MSci Natural Sciences

The natural sciences courses at Nottingham are

In the first year, you study equal weightings of

Preparing for a lecture in the

What will I study?

Over the second and third years you will develop

The archaeological strand of the natural sciences

I love the variety and breadth of natural

The biological strand of natural sciences is built

In the first year of the chemistry strand of natural

Chemistry is the key to understanding the natural

The first year is made up of compulsory modules

Teaching in the first year of the environmental

A student testing pH levels in the

During the first year you will gain a good

Students looking at historical maps in

In the second year you further develop your

The mathematics strand of natural sciences

The physics strand of natural sciences is fairly

The School of Physics and Astronomy at

The psychology strand of natural sciences is

A student taking part in a stroop

There is a wide range of options in the third year

How will I study?

Your learning experience will incorporate different

Credits the building blocks of

All undergraduate degree programmes at the

The majority of modules you encounter are 10 or

Library and computing services

Key Information Sets

Students can make use of computer rooms

For Nottinghams KIS data, please see individual

At Nottingham, you will benefit from access to an

Key Information Sets (KIS) are comparable sets of

Your personal tutor is on hand throughout your

In the fourth year you get to work on a

Each week students can expect between 18 and

Calculus and Linear

Calculus and Linear

Calculus and Linear

Introduction to Laboratory Work

Cell Structure and