Cancer Sciences, BSc (Hons)

Cancer drug development is a lengthy and costly endeavour that generates significant employment opportunities, necessitating skilled specialists to address the complexities of evolving diseases. This Cancer Sciences BSc programme at Nottingham equips students with a comprehensive understanding of cancer fundamentals, from basic scientific principles to therapeutic translation and drug development. Through training in cell and molecular biology, immunology, and human physiology, supported by renowned researchers and clinicians, graduates are prepared for careers in cancer research, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, finance, or related fields, including opportunities in research management and Graduate Entry Medicine.The curriculum progresses from first-year studies on cancer characteristics, causes, and human physiology, to second-year focus on specific cancers like lung, breast, and ovarian, including epidemiology and genetics. The final year delves into advanced cancer biology, immunology, and therapy development, with options for a 12-week placement. BSc students may transfer to the integrated MSci for a nine-month industry or research placement. Assessment includes essays, coursework, exams, presentations, and a dissertation. For detailed module information, visit the course page.

In your first year, you will learn the characteristics of cancer, its causes, how it progresses, and how it affects a person's health. You will also learn the human physiology and fundamental cell and molecular biology that you need to understand cancer and its causes and treatments. Your second year looks more closely at how different cancers form, grow, and spread, specifically focusing on lung, breast, and ovarian cancer. Themes this year include epidemiology and public health, as well as cancer cell genetics. The Patient-Centred Library Project module gives you the chance to study a different type of cancer and provides an overview of the patient journey through healthcare interactions. Your final year focuses on the advanced study of the biology of cancer cells, immunology and the development of new cancer therapies. You'll have the opportunity to apply for one of our studentships, which will see you work alongside real cancer scientists during a 12-week placement. This is an exciting chance to contribute to discoveries in real-world cancer research. If you choose to study the integrated masters (MSci), you’ll experience an extensive placement in your fourth year. This could be in an industry, research or academic setting - in the UK or overseas. For the most up-to-date module information and full details, please visit the course page on our website.