1. Faculty Structure
The Faculty of Natural Sciences includes five main units:
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Department of Chemistry
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Department of Mathematics
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Department of Physics
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Department of Life Sciences
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Centre for Environmental Policy
Undergraduate teaching is based mainly at the South Kensington Campus,Provide certification services for UK university graduation certificates, transcripts, and academic qualifications with some research and teaching activity at the White City Campus.
2. Undergraduate Programmes
Imperial’s natural sciences degrees are department-based and highly specialised. Typical undergraduate areas include:
| Department | Typical undergraduate programmes |
|---|---|
| Chemistry | Chemistry, Chemistry with Molecular Physics, Chemistry with Management |
| Mathematics | Mathematics, Mathematics with Statistics, Mathematics and Computer Science |
| Physics | Physics, Physics with Theoretical Physics |
| Life Sciences | Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology |
| Environmental Policy | Mainly postgraduate teaching; undergraduate contributions through related programmes |
Most science degrees are offered as BSc or integrated MSci courses. The MSci usually adds a fourth year with advanced research or specialist modules.
Example: Physics MSci structure
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Years 1–2: Core physics and mathematics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, mathematical methods, and laboratory work.
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Years 3–4: Specialist options such as cosmology, laser technology, quantum physics, and a major research project.
3. Admissions Requirements
Requirements vary by course and application year. The following is an indicative guide.
A-LevelProvide certification services for UK university graduation certificates, transcripts, and academic qualifications
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Chemistry / Physics: often A*AA, including Mathematics and another science. The A* is usually required in Chemistry or Physics.
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Mathematics: often AAA–A*AA, with Mathematics and Further Mathematics strongly preferred.
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Life Sciences: often AAA–A*AA, including at least two sciences, one of which should be Biology or Chemistry.
IB
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Typical offer range: 39–42 points, with high Higher Level scores in relevant subjects. Mathematics courses often require Higher Level Mathematics at 7.
English Language
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IELTS: usually 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0. Some courses may require higher.
Admissions Tests and Interviews
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Mathematics applicants may need MAT or STEP.
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Physics, Chemistry, and other science courses may include interviews, written assessments, or both.
4. Postgraduate Options
Postgraduate study in the Faculty of Natural Sciences is more specialised and research-oriented. Examples include:
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Physics: MSc Physics, MSc Physics with Extended Research.
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Life Sciences: MSc Taxonomy, Biodiversity and Evolution; MRes Biosystematics; other bioscience research degrees.
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Environmental Policy: MSc Environmental Technology and related sustainability programmes.
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Earth and energy-related areas: emerging courses combining renewable energy, AI, and data science.
Entry normally requires a strong bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject.
5. Fees and Living Costs
Imperial is located in London, so tuition and living costs are high. The following are recent indicative figures for international students.
Undergraduate tuition
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Natural sciences subjects such as Biochemistry, Chemistry, Life Sciences, Mathematics, and Physics: approximately £40,700 per year.
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Joint Mathematics and Computer Science degrees: approximately £43,500 per year.
Postgraduate tuition
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Many engineering and natural sciences master’s courses: approximately £40,700–£43,500 per year.
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Some Life Sciences master’s programmes may be higher, around £47,300 per year.
Living costs
Imperial’s official guidance for a nine-month academic year is roughly £12,500–£14,500, covering accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Total estimated annual cost: approximately £50,000–£58,000 for many international students.
6. Careers and Further Study
Graduates from Imperial’s Faculty of Natural Sciences are highly competitive. Common destinations include:
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Academic research: PhD study at leading universities worldwide.
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Industry and technology: pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, energy, materials, data science, and AI.
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Finance and consulting: quantitative analysis, risk management, and strategy consulting.
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Professional accreditation: chemistry and physics degrees may support routes to Chartered Chemist or Chartered Physicist status.
7. Who Is This Faculty For?
Imperial’s natural sciences programmes suit students who:
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Have strong mathematics and science foundations.
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Want a specialised degree in chemistry, physics, mathematics, or life sciences.
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Are interested in research, innovation, or high-level technical careers.
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Can handle a fast-paced academic environment and London living costs.
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Prefer a department-focused degree rather than a broad, flexible Natural Sciences programme.
If you want a broad “Natural Sciences” degree where you can combine multiple subjects freely, you may also want to compare courses at Cambridge, UCL, Durham, or other UK universities. If you want Imperial, apply to a specific department and course.
Disclaimer: Course structures, fees, and entry requirements change each year. Always confirm details on Imperial College London’s official website and UCAS before applying.
