We pride ourselves in Section of Natural and Applied Sciences (NAS) being a friendly place to study, where you feel engaged and well supported throughout your studies. We also focus on giving you practical experience and employability opportunities to make sure you get the most out of your time with us, so that when you leave us you will have the tools you need to tackle some of the world’s greatest scientific challenges.
In your first week
You will have a practical week where we will introduce you to our new lab facilities and get you started with developing your practical skills.
After that, we aim to structure the timetable so that you will only have to be in for one or two days a week for some weeks, three or four days in others, with one additional lab week later in the semester (these will appear in your timetable).
As part of your practical sessions, you will complete competencies that will enhance your employability and evidence your hands-on experience.
Attendance at these sessions is particularly important and we will support you in attending as much as you can.
The university year is made up of two semesters, one running from September - January, and the other from February - May. You will complete 3 modules in each Semester during your first year.
Foundation Year Core Modules:
Semester 1
- Introduction to Biology
- Introduction to Chemistry
- Science Skills
Semester 2
- Advancing Chemistry
- Introduction to Global Environments
- Advancing Biology
Suggested Summer Material
There's a huge range of material out there for you to explore, but Tim Marshall’s 2021 Sunday Times bestseller “The Power of Geography” makes for a great read and deals with numerous themes familiar to all geography students.
National Geographic and The Discovery Channel are great places to start watching documentaries about the earth we live on.
The best Geographers are those that have a really well-rounded view and knowledge of the world we live in and there is a huge range of media at your fingertips out there that can bring that world to you.
Community
On the social side, the Student Union (CCSU) has a huge range of clubs and societies – all of which have unique social calendars of their own and offer endless opportunities to make lifelong friends and discover new hobbies. And you can always create your own society and cultivate your own community!
CCSU will be hosting their Welcome Fayre on Wednesday 17th September 2025. Make sure you keep checking the CCSU website for further details and how to get involved.
We understand that you may be nervous about your first few weeks on campus but rest assured - you'll be joining a nurturing and supportive environment where diversity, equality and individuality are part of everything we do.
You can find out more about our welcoming community and making friends here at CCCU.
If you are an International Student joining us then please see our International Student Support pages for further information and guidance.
