Study science and technology in the UK
Where can I study science and technology?
You can take your pick from a wide range of science and technology courses around the UK,
including from three of the world’s top ten science universities – University of Cambridge (fourth),
University of Oxford (fifth) and Imperial College London (ninth).1 With high standards of teaching and
facilities around the country, a UK science degree will open your mind and open doors worldwide for
the best possible start to your career.
Where can I study science and technology?
You can take your pick from a wide range of science and technology courses around the UK,
including from three of the world’s top ten science universities – University of Cambridge (fourth),
University of Oxford (fifth) and Imperial College London (ninth).1 With high standards of teaching and
facilities around the country, a UK science degree will open your mind and open doors worldwide for
the best possible start to your career.
What specialisms are on offer?
If you want to study science in the UK you can study a traditional science subject – biology, chemistry
or physics – or opt for something more specialised. Chemistry–related specialisms range from
biochemistry and forensic science to pharmacology, while for biology you could study anything from
genetics to marine biology. Physics–based degrees offer specialisms across areas as diverse as
chemical physics, astrophysics and mathematical physics. There’s also a huge range of technology
courses on offer, from computer science and materials science to creative music technology.
How long does it take to graduate?
Most UK science and technology undergraduate degrees take around three years to complete, with
part–time options also available. A postgraduate qualification usually takes between one and two
years of full–time study.
Many universities also offer four–year undergraduate degrees with a one–year industry placement or
internship with one of their partners included.
What is the course structure?
With so much variety in the sciences and different technology degrees on offer, each course is very
different, but you can be sure of a number of things when you study in the UK.
All UK science and technology degrees will teach you a broad overview of the subjects that you are
interested in, to ensure you have a foundation of knowledge, before allowing you to specialise as you
go with a modular course structureAs well as developing critical problem solving and teamwork skills, you’ll also be honing your practical
skills inside state-of-the-art learning environments and labs with strong links to industry and research.
Plus, you’ll be immersed in the English language – giving you one of the most valuable graduate tools
there is.
Why is the UK a good choice fo science and technology?
If you want the best possible teaching in your chosen area, you’ll find plenty on offer in the UK. You’ll
be learning under the careful guidance of some of the best science and technology minds in the
world. They will be on hand to support you throughout your studies, helping you apply the theory in a
versatile, practical way.
You’ll also be tapping into centuries of scientific heritage and landmark discoveries, from gravity to
DNA. The UK is currently ranked third in the world for citable research,2 with 55.2 per cent of all UK
publications the product of international research collaborations, so you can be sure you’re studying
at the cutting edge of new discoveries.
Are there any scholarships for science and technology students?
A wide range of scholarships and bursaries are available for international students planning to study
STEM courses in the UK, as well as for postgraduate students who are already UK residents.
Some are funded by organisations such as the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, while others are
provided by private companies and universities themselves.
You can also apply for the prestigious Chevening Scholarships or, if you are from a Commonwealth
country, you could apply for a Commonwealth Scholarship.
What are my work options after I graduate?
Because you’ll learn so many transferable skills from institutions recognised the world over, you’ll be
all set for a career anywhere you want to go. UK graduates are among the most employable in the
world,3 and every
year the UK welcomes more than 53,000 4 students of scientific disciplines and a further 53,000
engineering and technology students to launch and develop their careers.
While many go on to become research scientists, others move into roles in everything from the food
and drinks industry to law enforcement, energy and healthcare. Whatever you choose, you’ll discover
the best possible you when you study science and technology in the UK.
International students can apply to stay and work in the UK for two years after graduating, through the
Graduate Route.
To find out more about studying science and technology in the UK and find a course,
