What Are the General Entry Requirements to Study a Natural Sciences Degree Within the UK?
June 23, 2022Natural Sciences is one of the most popular degree subjects in the UK, and for good reason. This broad area of study covers a huge range of exciting and important topics, from biology and chemistry to geology and physics. You may have already studied many of these subjects at school or college at a lower level, with some learners also studying with an online learning college such as Learn Now online courses.
There are a number of different routes that you can take in order to study natural sciences at university level. Read on to find out more about the general entry requirements for this popular degree subject.
General Entry Requirements to Study a Natural Sciences Degree
Here are the general requirements that you’ll need to meet in order to study for a natural sciences degree:
A Levels
The vast majority of students who study natural sciences in the UK will do so by completing A levels (or equivalent qualifications). In order to study natural sciences at university, you will need to achieve good grades in a range of science-based subjects. Learners can consider A Level science subjects through Edexcel online.
Students who wish to study natural sciences at university can first study Online A Levels. These qualifications are widely recognised by institutions across the UK and will give you the skills and knowledge that you need to succeed in your degree.
Note that you’ll need an A*A*A* at A Level in order to study natural sciences at the world-renowned universities of Oxford and Cambridge.
BTECs
Another option for students wishing to study natural sciences is to take BTECs (or equivalent qualifications). These vocational qualifications are designed to give you the practical skills and knowledge that you need to succeed in your chosen career.
BTECs are widely recognised by universities across the UK and can be a great alternative to A levels, particularly if you have a strong interest in the practical side of natural sciences.
International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is another popular option for students wishing to study natural sciences at university. The IB is a globally recognised qualification that is accepted by institutions across the world.
In order to study natural sciences at university, you’ll need 40-42 points in your IB, with 776 in your higher-level subjects.
Scottish Highers
If you’re from Scotland, you’ll be able to study natural sciences at university by taking Scottish Highers. These are the equivalent of A levels and are widely recognised by institutions across the UK.
The main requirement for Scottish Highers is that you must have at least 5 subjects at grade C or above.
Access to Higher Education Diploma
If you don’t have the traditional qualifications required to study natural sciences, don’t worry – there are still options available to you. One option is to study for an Access to Higher Education Diploma.
This qualification is designed for students who want to study at university but don’t have the traditional qualifications required. The diploma will give you the skills and knowledge that you need to succeed in your degree.
In order to study for an Access to Higher Education Diploma, you’ll need to have at least 2 A levels (or equivalent qualifications).
Bottom Line
A Natural Sciences degree is a great way to study a range of important and exciting subjects. If you want to study this degree, you’ll need to achieve good grades in a range of science-based subjects.
You can study for an A level, BTEC, Scottish Highers, or Access to Higher Education Diploma in order to meet the entry requirements for a Natural Sciences degree.