Natural Sciences with a Year Abroad

Natural Sciences with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers a comprehensive and flexible degree programme designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the fundamental principles that underpin multiple scientific disciplines. This programme is ideal for students who have a strong interest in exploring various fields of science—including biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and related subjects—while also valuing the opportunity to gain international experience through a dedicated year abroad. The course is structured to enable students to tailor their studies according to their academic interests and career aspirations, combining core scientific training with optional modules that span multiple disciplines. Throughout the course, students benefit from the university's state-of-the-art laboratories, dedicated research facilities, and expert faculty members who are engaged in innovative research across various scientific sectors. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides invaluable intercultural experience, enhances language skills, and fosters independence and adaptability—attributes highly valued in today's global job market. During this year, students typically study at partner universities across Europe, North America, or other regions, engaging in coursework, collaborative projects, or research activities. This international component not only enriches the student’s academic profile but also broadens their scientific perspective through exposure to different research cultures and methodologies. The programme emphasizes the development of critical thinking, data analysis, laboratory skills, and scientific communication, preparing graduates for diverse careers in research, industry, environmental management, education, and beyond. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in internships and research placements, gaining practical experience that complements their academic learning. Graduates of this programme leave equipped with a versatile skill set and a global outlook, making them highly competitive in the diverse and evolving landscape of science and technology industries. The Natural Sciences with a Year Abroad at UEA is an excellent choice for ambitious students eager to explore the interconnectedness of scientific disciplines and to develop the skills necessary for a successful international career in science.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10550 Year (EEA)
• EUR 16800 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU Students: £9,000. International Students: £14,400

• English

Course Content

Year Abroad

The Faculty of Science has strong links with universities across the globe. Going to university in another country will mean that you have the benefit of immersing yourself in a different culture and language whilst graduating with a highly interdisciplinary science degree.

Our Year Abroad programmes involve four years of study with the first two years at UEA following the BSc Natural Sciences programme. The third year is spent at a University abroad. You return for your fourth year to UEA and complete the final year modules from the BSc Natural Sciences course which includes undertaking an independent interdisciplinary research project.

Your choice of exchange university for the Year Abroad may be influenced by the unit choices you are taking on the degree and the research strengths of the individual institutions in those particular areas. Advice and discussion on your choices for the exchange year is provided by your academic advisor and the course director during year two.

Current Australasian universities that the Faculty of Science has exchange programmes with include, amongst others:

• Macquarie University, Sydney
• Lincoln University, Canterbury NZ
• Murdoch University, Perth
• Griffith University, Brisbane
• University of Auckland, NZ
• Monash University, Melbourne

Students on an Australasian exchange programme will be expected to pay 15% of their annual tuition fee to UEA during their year abroad, and we will pay the fees of the Australasian university.

Current European universities that the Faculty of Science has exchange programmes with include, amongst others:

• Marseille (France)
• Granada (Spain)
• Amsterdam (The Netherlands)
• Naples (Italy)
• Freiburg (Germany)
• Madrid (Spain)
• Brussels (Belgium)

Students who wish to study at a European university will be required to have achieved a GCSE grade B or above in the language of instruction for the year abroad.
Students on a European exchange programme will be expected to pay 15% of their annual tuition fee to UEA during their year abroad, and we will pay the fees of the European university.

Current North American universities that the Faculty of Science has exchange programmes with include, amongst others:

• University of British Columbia, Vancouver
• University of Miami, Florida University of California University of Calgary, Alberta
• University of Texas

Students on a North American exchange programme will be expected to pay 15% of their annual tuition fee to UEA during their year abroad, and we will pay the fees of the North American University.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 78

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A Level:

A*AA (including two sciences)

• International Baccalaureate:

36 points (including 3 Higher Level subjects at grade 6 including two Sciences)

• Scottish Highers:

AAAAA

• Scottish Advanced Highers:

AAA

• Irish Leaving Certificate:

AAAAAA

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
• PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

Interviews are required as part of the selection process.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

Students who wish to study at a European university will be required to have achieved a GCSE grade B or above in the language of instruction for the year abroad.

We ask our applicants to have at least two of the following subjects to A2-level or equivalent: Biology; Chemistry; Physics; Mathematics or Further Mathematics; Environmental Science or Geography or Geology; and Information and Communication Technology.
General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.

GCSE Offer

All students are required to have GCSE Mathematics and GCSE English Language at Grade C or above.
Students are also required to have GCSE Grade B or above in the language of instruction for the year abroad.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

Natural Sciences with Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive and flexible undergraduate programme designed to provide a broad scientific education while allowing specialization in key areas such as biology, chemistry, environmental sciences, earth sciences, or physics. The degree typically spans four years, with the third year dedicated to studying at a partner institution abroad, which enhances cultural awareness, language skills, and scientific expertise through international experience. Students enrolled in this course benefit from UEA's strong research reputation and modern facilities, supporting a wide range of scientific investigations and practical learning opportunities.

The curriculum combines core scientific modules with options for specialization, ensuring students gain depth in their chosen fields alongside a multidisciplinary outlook. The programme emphasizes laboratory work, field studies, and computer-based data analysis, preparing graduates for careers in research, industry, education, or further postgraduate study. The international year abroad is structured to integrate students into academic communities at partner universities across Europe, North America, or other regions, depending on the chosen pathway.

Students receive dedicated academic support during their Year Abroad, including pre-departure training, language preparation if applicable, and ongoing guidance to maximize their international experience. They also have opportunities to participate in internships and collaborative research projects with host institutions. The program fosters skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, all highly valued in scientific careers.

Graduates from Natural Sciences with Year Abroad at UEA often pursue employment in sectors such as environmental consultancy, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, academia, or government agencies. Many also continue with research degrees or teacher training programmes. The integration of an international dimension within the scientific training ensures that students are well-equipped to work in an increasingly globalized world. Overall, the program aims to produce versatile and adaptable scientists ready to tackle complex scientific challenges on a global scale.