Natural Sciences University of Cambridge

Overview

The Natural Sciences programme at the University of Cambridge provides an exceptionally broad scientific education that spans fourteen different departments. This flexible structure allows students to investigate various new and familiar scientific areas before committing to a specific specialisation in later years of study.

Why Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge?

The university is ranked fourth in the world for this field, offering access to some of the most advanced research facilities and teaching laboratories globally. Students learn from leading scientists who are currently tackling major global challenges, such as climate change, disease detection, and the origins of life. The collegiate system provides a supportive environment with small-group supervisions that complement large-scale lectures and practical sessions.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 44214 per year
• National fee: GBP 9790 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide breadth in the early stages and deep specialisation in the final years. Students can choose to focus on purely physical sciences, biological sciences, or a combination of both. Modules may include:

Year 1

• Biodiversity, Evolution and Ecology
• Biomedical Sciences
• Cells and Molecular Biology
• Chemistry
• Earth Sciences
• Materials Science
• Physics
• Mathematics

Year 2

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Conservation
• Genetics
• History and Philosophy of Science
• Neurobiology
• Pharmacology
• Physiology

Year 3 and 4 specialisations allow for intensive research projects in areas such as Astrophysics, Plant Sciences, or Zoology. Progression to the fourth-year MSci level is typically dependent on achieving high academic standing in the third year.

Careers with Natural Sciences

Graduates are highly sought after for their analytical skills and scientific rigour. Approximately half of the cohort chooses to pursue further research or postgraduate study in emerging interdisciplinary fields. Those entering the workforce directly find success in diverse sectors including software development, financial management, and management consultancy. The programme also prepares students for roles in teaching and various technical industries where a broad understanding of the sciences is essential.