Natural Sciences offers a wide range of physical and biological science subjects from 16 departments in a unique and demanding course. A broad first year is combined with increasing specialisation in the second year, and the possibility of total specialisation from the third year. The breadth of the course reflects the blurring of boundaries between the different sciences and before committing yourself to one department you study a variety of subjects, some of which may be new to you.
In the first year, students study three science courses plus mathematics. Physical scientists often choose options including Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Materials Science or Physics. In your second year, you will choose three courses from over 20 available options, including a comprehensive range of courses in physical sciences. In your third year, you specialise in one subject, or follow a broad spectrum subject in Physical Sciences. Some subjects have an optional fourth year. Full details about the structure and content of the course can be found on the University website.
Physical Natural Sciences at Murray Edwards College
We welcome around 12 undergraduate students in Physical Natural Sciences each year. Within the College as a whole we have around 40 undergraduate students and 25 postgraduate students in the subject and closely related areas. The student-run Franklin Society organises events for those interested in science, including talks from invited speakers. Additionally, there are opportunities for Natural Sciences students and Fellows to dine together during the year, fostering the scientific community within the College.
Typical offer
A Level: A*A*A with A* in Further Mathematics if offered and A* in Chemistry or Physics
IB: 42, 776 with 7 in IB Higher Level Mathematics and 7 in IB Higher Level Chemistry or IB Higher Level Physics
Required subjects
A Level: A Level in at least two science/mathematics subjects
IB: IB Higher Level in at least two science/mathematics subjects
Admissions Assessment
All applicants for Natural Sciences are required to take a written assessment, for which they must be registered in advance.
Written work
Murray Edwards Natural Sciences applicants are not asked to submit written work to the College.
Read the Q&A with our Director of Studies in Physical Natural Sciences.
