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Studying a Masters Degree In Natural Science
Find postgraduate programs in NATURAL SCIENCEDuring a masters degree in Natural Science, students look at the theories, which enable them to describe and explain the natural world. They examine the properties of terrestrial materials and the complex structures of the living world, along with climatic and tidal forces. They will also learn how advances in science have evolved and continue to do so, over the 21st century.
As part of a masters in natural science your tutors will deliver a timetable of lectures, practical demonstrations, tutorials and projects. You will be expected to hand in a number of coursework assignments, along with an independent research essay – these will be spaced out over the length of your course. As part of the course, your skills will be developed and become transferable to a range of other related disciplines. Many natural science masters programs are continually assessed through your production of lab reports, presentations and work experience feedback. Some universities provide a mentoring scheme for their natural science students, they are on hand to give guidance and advice, or help you to choose modules that are related to the career you’d like to pursue.
Why study a Masters in Natural Science?
People who enrol on a masters in natural science are interested in the real-world applications of their academic study. They gain experience by bringing together knowledge from different scientific disciplines, they can then use this integrated approach to address a problem or challenge. As the focus remains on solving the scientific problems faced by people every day, students are also taught about the social and ethical implications of their work.
Once enrolled on your course you can cherry pick the optional modules to suit your career aspirations and scientific interests. Whichever pathway you choose to follow, the units will reflect the most important contemporary issues facing natural sciences leading experts. By the end of the course students will be able to reflect on how scientific thinking and its related technologies is vital for society.
Entry requirements
If you are entering a one year natural science masters course after graduating from a first degree, admissions tutors will be looking for at least a 2.1 honours grade in natural science or a closely-related subject. Universities in Europe may have alternative requirements, it is best to check what those are on their individual websites. Students who are coming to study in the UK or Europe from overseas can check with their chosen university, to find out if their overseas qualifications are accepted. Furthermore, you will have to present evidence in the form of an IELTS certificate, or a GCSE in English, or another form of test result, to prove you are proficient in both spoken and written English.
Study modules
A natural sciences masters qualification offers plenty of scope for students to diversify in their personal study pathway. There are a large number of modules, but most courses will include units on earth and ocean systems, design and computing, evolution, patterns of life, electronic systems, and quantitative methods.
Student case study
Many students are attracted to STEM subjects, and in particular the interdisciplinary nature of a masters in natural science, as they feel it offers more choice when it comes to future careers and gives them a solid understanding of their specialism.
Rachel is working towards her MSc in Natural Sciences, majoring in Biological Sciences and Chemistry at the University of Nottingham. She says:” I like the idea of being able to study more than one subject and not having to focus purely on one thing. Natural Sciences is great because it gives you a variety but also enables you to look further out, to broaden a view of science as a whole.”
Career & study opportunities
The abilities you gain on a natural science masters enable you to work in a variety of scientific and other professional roles. You will have learnt to think independently, solve problems, and be analytical in your approach – a skills set that many employers require. Positions in laboratories, industry, business, management, government or law are all open to you. Some graduates choose to stay on in a research post and complete a PhD, they may then work in research or academia.
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