Learn about a Bachelor of Science (BSc), the majors you can study, and how it can shape your career.
What is a BSc?
A BSc, or Bachelor of Science, is an undergraduate bachelor’s degree focusing on scientific disciplines. It covers the applied sciences, such as biology and chemistry, as well as mathematics, mechanical engineering, and computer science.
How long does it take to get a BSc degree?
Depending on the university, a Bachelor of Science typically takes three to four years to finish. A BSc focuses on a range of scientific subjects, such as chemistry and physics, as well as mathematics and computer science.
What exactly does a BSc degree entail?
Studying for a BSc requires many classroom hours, and you’ll be in contact with teaching staff more.
You’ll have less time for independent study and will spend time on practical workshops and lectures. Practical workshops will help you get used to a professional laboratory environment and help direct your skills into a role post-graduation.
In addition to attending seminars, lectures, and workshops, you will take exams, complete coursework and practical tests, and lead presentations.
Types of Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees
Your interests and career ambitions influence how you choose a degree program. Typically bachelor’s degrees in science emphasize quantitative aptitudes in the classroom, so science or mathematics is a significant aspect of a BSc degree. It provides excellent entry to a scientific-based career such as engineering. Often graduates of Bachelor of Science programs take up further study after graduation.
You can study for a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in the following undergraduate subject areas:
- BSc in Biology
- BSc in Engineering
- BSc in Earth Science
- BSc in Mathematics
- BSc in Chemistry
- BSc in Computer Science
- BSc in Physics
- BSc in Sport Science
- BSc in Social Science
- BSc in Biochemistry
Benefits of a BSc degree
A Bachelor of Science is an undergraduate degree that provides students with a strong base in the sciences and practical experience and knowledge applicable to many different aspects of life. With a BSc, graduates can access more job opportunities and earn higher salaries than those with lesser qualifications.
In addition, BSc graduates better understand the scientific process; they can develop analytical and critical thinking skills and be more creative in problem-solving. They are also better equipped to apply what they know in real-world situations and understand what it takes to develop innovative solutions.
Here are some of the benefits of studying a BSc:
- Enhanced understanding of the scientific process
- Higher earning potential
- Technical and practical knowledge of your chosen field
- Transferable skills such as research and analysis
- Industry connections and networking opportunities
- Increased opportunities for further study
- Sense of achievement and fulfillment
- International recognition
Ultimately, earning a Bachelor of Science degree gives students an edge when it comes to succeeding academically and professionally.
The knowledge and practical experience you gain from studying for a BSc will set you apart from your peers and give you a competitive advantage regarding job applications.
BSc graduates: key statistics
BSc degrees lead to some of the highest-paying careers today.
STEM graduate get the highest entry-level salaries
A report by Georgetown University shows that not all Bachelor’s degrees hold the same monetary value immediately post-graduation:
| Degree group | Entry level salary |
| STEM | $43,000 |
| Health | $41,000 |
| Business | $37,000 |
| Career-focused | $30,000 |
| Arts, humanities, and liberal arts | $29,000 |
BSc degrees receive a significant share of scholarships
According to the Education Data Initiative report, STEM and technical majors receive many scholarships in the US.
The top 20 highest-paying degrees are all BSc
Below are the highest-paying degrees in the US in 2021 by mid-career (10+ years of experience) according to Statista
| BSc degree | Yearly salary |
| Petroleum engineering | $187,300 |
| Operations research and industrial engineering | $170,400 |
| Electrical engineering and computer science | $159,300 |
| Interaction design | $155,800 |
| Public accounting | $147,700 |
| Operations research | $147,700 |
| Applied economics and management | $146,400 |
| Business computing | $143,600 |
| Actuarial mathematics | $143,400 |
| Electrical power engineering | $142,600 |
| Information and computer science | $140,900 |
| Aeronautics and astronautics | $139,600 |
| Systems engineering | $139,200 |
| Econometrics | $139,000 |
| Pharmacy | $138,700 |
| Aerospace studies | $136,600 |
| Chemical engineering | $135,900 |
| Building science | $135,900 |
| Cognitive science | $135,200 |
| Actuarial science | $134,400 |
Bachelor of Science (BSc) grading systems
UK
BSc degrees are assessed at the following levels: 1st class, second class upper or 2:1, and second class lower or 2:2. 3rd class.
US and Canada
In the USA and Canada, your GPA is your final grade, calculated by considering all your marks for each module/class.
The highest GPA you can graduate with is 4.0, equivalent to a 2:1 in the UK. A GPA of 3.0 is equal to 2.0.
EU
The Bologna grading system is a European-wide scale that grades university degrees based on a 1-10 grading scale. BSc degrees are graded on a 1-10. The highest mark a student can receive is ten which is equivalent to a first-class honors degree in the UK. The average range for a Bachelor of Science degree is 5-7.
Admission requirements for Bachelor of Science (BSc)
UK
You are likely to have a high-school education before obtaining a BSc degree. In the UK, good GCSE grades in English and Mathematics can be compulsory admission requirements for colleges. Students can apply for a Bachelor of Science program at university post-completion of an International Baccalaureate or A Levels.
US
You must complete an accredited high school program to be eligible for a Bachelor of Science degree in the USA. Most US universities require good standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, and a personal statement to apply for admission. Universities may also require letters of recommendation and a resume/CV.
Canada
You must complete an accredited high school program to be eligible for a Bachelor of Science program in Canada. Most universities require good standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, and a personal statement to apply for admission. Additionally, universities may also require letters of recommendation and resumes/CVs.
Europe
You must complete an accredited high school program to be eligible for a Bachelor of Science program in a European country. Most universities require good grades in relevant subjects. Additionally, some countries may require additional standardized tests such as SAT or ACT. Universities may also require letters.
Conclusion
Pursuing a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree is a significant step towards a promising career in various scientific and technical fields. This degree provides a comprehensive education in subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering and equips students with essential practical skills through workshops and laboratory experience.
Graduates with a BSc degree benefit from enhanced job opportunities, higher earning potential, and a solid foundation for further academic pursuits.
Whether aiming for immediate entry into the workforce or considering advanced studies, a BSc degree offers a versatile and robust educational path.