Our MSci degree offers the chance to also take research-based study in the fourth year. The MSci in Natural Sciences allow students to take modules from a range of subjects, specialising in at least one of the following subjects in the fourth year: Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth Sciences, Mathematics and Physics. Biology, except as part of a Named Route or Joint Honours programme, Psychology and subjects from outside the Science faculty are not available in the fourth year of the MSci. Graduation from this route is with a MSci (Hons) degree in Natural Sciences with the main subjects studied listed on the degree certificate.
The most popular combinations of subject pairings form the basis of Named Routes in Natural Sciences MSci. A Joint Honours degree in Biology and Physics is also available within FGC0.
Flexibility and Choice
It is possible to transfer into the second year of an MSci degree programme from a BSc, for student who have successfully completed the first year of study and taken appropriate modules. Students can also take modules from just one of the subjects above in their fourth year, providing an appropriate pathway of study has previously been followed
Year 1
Students must study at least two subjects, but no more than four, which give you a good progression into your second-year subjects. You can specialise by taking up to four modules in one subject from 'Group 1' which are the science subjects listed on the subjects page. All other subjects are available to study but these cannot be taken through to Year 4. Students who intend to specialise in a single science subject in their final year, will typically need to take three or four core modules from that subject.
Similarly to on the BSc, MSci Natural Sciences students often take two modules from three subjects although other combinations are possible. This combination would normally allow progression to some later study in any or all of those subjects. The design of the course is constrained by the entry requirements and limits of the University’s academic timetable.
Year 2
Students must study at least two subjects, but no more than three, with a pathway that gives reasonable progression into third-year subjects. Specialisation, by taking up to four modules in one science subject, is possible. This is particularly important for students who are following the MSci in Natural Sciences where they will specialise in a single science subject in their final year.
As on the BSc, students are required to build on one or two of the subjects they studied in their first year, but also have the option of starting a new subject. Within the constraints of the University timetable and ensuring a suitable pathway for progression into the third year, students have considerable freedom in their academic choices.
Year 3
At least two subjects, but no more than three maybe studied. Again, specialisation is possible by taking up to four modules from one science subject.
Year 4
In addition to the project, students take a selection of taught modules. These will typically be advanced modules in subject(s) studied in previous years are taken from Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth Sciences, Mathematics; Physics.
Placement Year
Our MSci in Natural Sciences provides students with the option to apply for a placement year taken between either the second and third, or third and final year of their studies in Durham. Find out more.
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