Natural Sciences

Natural sciences degrees are built on the recognition that the boundaries between scientific disciplines are human inventions, not features of the natural world. Chemistry, physics, biology and earth science address different aspects of the same reality, and some of the most important scientific questions, about climate, consciousness, the origin of life or the nature of matter, do not sit neatly within any single discipline. A natural sciences degree allows you to work across two or more sciences, developing genuine expertise in each and the ability to think at the interfaces between them.

At the University of Exeter, the three-year full-time degree offers a broad scientific education with the flexibility to shape your own programme across the physical, biological and earth sciences. You will study your chosen sciences rigorously, developing strong quantitative and practical skills alongside the conceptual understanding that each discipline requires. The first year builds a solid foundation before you begin to specialise, and throughout the degree you will develop the ability to move between different scientific frameworks, which is particularly valuable in research and applied science roles where problems do not respect disciplinary lines.

The programme includes a foundation year option, which provides an additional year of preparation for students who need to strengthen their scientific background before progressing onto the full degree.

Exeter's strong research profile in areas including environmental science, climate science and life sciences enriches the undergraduate experience, and the university's campuses in Devon give ready access to outstanding natural environments for fieldwork and study.

Graduates of natural sciences programmes move into research, environmental and sustainability roles, the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, science education, science communication, policy and a wide range of other careers where broad scientific literacy and analytical skills are valued. Postgraduate study at masters or doctoral level is a common next step for those who want to specialise in research.