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Degree subjects at the University of Sheffield

Degree subjects

The University of Sheffield is a Russell Group university offering top degrees, across a variety of subjects, to ambitious students from all over the world. Discover some of the subjects you can study, and how the International College will help you prepare for high-quality courses that will suit your interests and aspirations.

How to choose your subject

When deciding which subject to study at degree level, start by thinking about your strengths, interests and career goals. If you already have a specific career in mind, such as architecture, find out which courses are best, what steps you need to take, and how long it takes to qualify. To help you choose the right degree, take a look at our subject guides below.

Prepare for success

The University of Sheffield International College provides tailored pathways to more than 30 degree subjects. Specialist programmes prepare you for success in the undergraduate or postgraduate degree of your choice.

Subject options include:

Animal and plant sciences

Animal and plant sciences is the study of the living organisms that surround us, and their independencies with human life. Explore this fascinating subject and the programmes offered at Sheffield.

Architecture

Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and structures. Find out more about this subject, including the benefits of studying architecture at university and typical career paths.

Biological and biomedical science

Biology is the study of life and living organisms and biomedical science concentrates on medical research and the development of treatments. Explore degree options and benefits of studying the subject.

Business management

A business management degree gives you a well-rounded knowledge of business organisations and their operations. This includes markets, customers, communications and staffing.

Chemical engineering

Learn about the design and operation of processes for making a wide range of products on which everyone's standard of living depends. Sheffield graduates work across all fields of chemical engineering, including biological and pharmaceutical engineering and are and are well-equipped for a future in digital manufacturing.

Civil and structural engineering

Civil engineering is the planning, construction and maintenance of public infrastructure. If you're not sure which area of civil engineering you want to go into, this broad-based course is a good choice.

Computer science

Computer science is the study of computers and computational systems. Learn programming and obtain the tools you need to drive change through technology.

Economics

Economics is the study of production, consumption and transfer of wealth. Consider how money could best be distributed so as to minimise inequality in society.

Environmental science

Environmental science is a broad and multidisciplinary subject exploring processes that impact the wide range of ecosystems and environments on Earth. Study this course to create a positive impact on quality of life, without threatening our natural resources.

Geography

Explore the relationship between people and the planet with a geography degree. You'll learn how to address key global challenges such as climate change, poverty and inequality, geopolitical uncertainty, urbanisation and food insecurity.

History

History is the study of past events, from the late Roman through to the modern period. You'll learn to exercise independent judgement, to be critical of accepted opinion and to present your arguments effectively.

International relations and politics

Learn about political systems and understand how the world works with a degree in international relations and politics. It’s the perfect subject if you want to go into government, policy analysis and academia, but you will also acquire transferable skills and knowledge that will appeal to employers from a whole range of sectors.

Law

Law is the study of the system of rules that govern countries and communities. You will consider the impacts that laws have and whether they play their part in maintaining peaceful societies.

Mathematics

The study of mathematics makes you better at solving problems. It gives you skills that you can use across other subjects and apply in many different job roles.

Mechanical engineering

Mechanical engineers design and build the infrastructure that societies are built on.  Gain a solid grounding in mechanical engineering,  and develop the transferable skills that employers look for, such as communication, project management and time management skills.

Mechatronic and robotics engineering

Robots are used in almost every sector and have a huge part to play in driving efficiency. In mechatronic and robotics engineering, you will learn to integrate mechanical engineering with computer programming.

Molecular biology and biotechnology

Molecular biologists study life at a molecular level and make discoveries that affect our daily lives. Biotechnologists develop solutions around these findings.

Orthoptics

Orthoptics is designed to give a deep understanding of the human eye and different eye conditions. Develop key interpersonal skills to help you flourish in any multidisciplinary eye care team.

Philosophy

Explore a diverse range of philosophical topics, from politics and ethics to logic and language, and encompassing issues from the nature of the mind to the value of art. Your study of philosophy will help you develop your own views and build intellectual skills that you can draw on throughout your life and career.

Physics

Physics helps you to understand the world around you, and satisfy your curiosity. Studying physics develops your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Physicists are versatile, which opens a wide range of future careers.

Psychology

Psychology is the study of the mind and human behaviour. Work to understand what makes people act, and the effects of memory, thought, and emotion.

Social sciences

Social sciences can open up debate and give us a say in shaping our collective future. Gain the skills, knowledge and confidence to tackle the big social science challenges facing society today including inequality, injustice and health.

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Programmes

Explore our range of pathway programmes at the University of Sheffield International College and get prepared for your degree of choice at Sheffield.

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Entry requirements

Find out the academic and English language entry requirements for your chosen programme at the International College.

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How to apply

Ready to apply? Discover how to submit an application and learn more about fees, semester dates and entry requirements.

Ready to join us?

Our student enrolment advisors are here to help with your application and answer any questions you have about studying with us.