Your motivations for studying general science will significantly impact whether or not you should apply for a position on a Pure Sciences course or an Applied Sciences course. However, if you’re passionate about discovering how the world works and you want to help research and challenge scientific theory, then you may want to consider applying for a place on a pure sciences course.

If you’re more interested in investigating the impact that scientific principles have upon day-to-day living, then an Applied Science course may be a better option for you. During your studies you will not only learn scientific theory, but the impact that this has on technological developments and culture as a whole.

Either way, general science courses require a lot hoard work. While it is vital that you are passionate about the subject matter, you will need to be hard-working and highly motivated in order to make the most of your course.

There are a wide variety of jobs available to students who have degrees in applies and pure sciences. Many students opt to continue their studies as a post-graduate level which allows them to specialise in niche fields, or to qualify for more vocational roles such as teaching, journalism and law.

However, many graduates with a degree in applies sciences are likely to find employment within sectors such as the engineering and bio-medical industries or working within in a lab environment to assist in the development and research of new innovative products and technology.

Business is also a popular industry for both applies and pure science graduates. During your time at University, you will acquire skills in data analysis as well as a strong grasp of mathematics which are transferable to industries such as finance, sales and marketing.

For those who discover a passion for the environment over the course of their degree programme, there is also the chance to travel both nationally and internationally working on conservation projects.

Both Pure and Applied Science courses at a reputable establishment often request high grades, with the majority of Universities expecting their applicants to have A-levels or equivalent qualifications in Maths and Science. All general science degrees build upon your prior knowledge of maths and science so whichever university you decide to attend, good grades will be vital. The majority of courses will last 3 years, although there may be the opportunity to extend your programme for an extra year.

Most Science courses assess their students through the setting of personal projects as well as expecting their students to become involved in work placement schemes through the University. Most universities will have links within the science industries and will be able to assist in the finding of placements. Students are also expected to attend regular lectures and on occasion sit examinations and as such it is important that all students are fluent in English. If English is not your native language, then you will be required to score a minimum of 6.5 on an ITELS test.

There are a wide number of science courses available across the UK offered at a number of establishments, so choosing the right course for you is imperative. Examine very carefully, the courses offered and consider do these appeal to your own personal academic strengths and interest?  If you already have an idea of what you want to do after graduation, then look for universities that develop an in-depth learning in that particular scientific field in order to increase your potential employability.

You should always look at the entry requirements and your own finances before submitting an application to your university of choice. If you’re still struggling to secure funding there are a number of options available to you including scholarships and bursaries.  

Irrespective of which course you decide to study, the location of the university itself should also be taken into consideration when deciding where to study. Discovering new cultures and meeting new people is a huge part of student life and it is vital that you make the most of your university experience. You will be studying for a minimum of 3 years, so it is important that your university of choice is located in an environment where you will thrive both socially and academically. Some potential students prefer to study in big cities with large campus universities whereas others prefer smaller establishments with a more communal focus.  Either way, it is important to do your research in advance. If possible, you should also try and attend as many open days as possible in order to get a feel for the local area.