Prospects.ac.uk

Science graduate schemes

AuthorDarcy Nathan, editor
Posted on

These structured programmes offered by leading companies provide a wealth of opportunities to gain valuable experience, develop professional skills, and jumpstart your career in the exciting world of science

Why choose a science graduate scheme?

A science graduate scheme offers far more than a typical entry-level role. You'll work on real projects, contribute to cutting-edge research or technical innovation, and rotate across departments, helping you gain a broad, adaptable skill set.

Along the way, you'll receive structured training, mentorship, and opportunities to work alongside senior scientists and industry experts. By the end of the programme, you'll have a clear idea of whether you want to specialise in research, laboratory science, regulatory affairs, environmental science, or another field.

Which companies run science graduate schemes?

Science covers a range of specialisms, so exploring the different pathways can help you find the scheme that best fits your interests. Here are some examples across various disciplines.

Energy and defence

These roles often focus on applied science, engineering, and technical innovation.

Healthcare and medical sciences

You'll receive training to work in clinical and biomedical settings, combining technical skills with patient-focused outcomes.

Life sciences

Schemes in life science involve rotations across research, product development, and commercial teams.

Pharmaceuticals

This pathway focuses on the research, development, and production of medicines and therapies.

Space and technology

For graduates interested in space and emerging technologies, these programmes offer hands-on experience on cutting-edge projects.

What will I do on a science graduate scheme?

On a graduate scheme, you'll get hands-on experience on real projects, helping you see how different scientific functions contribute to broader organisational goals.

Your day-to-day work will vary depending on the programme but often includes:

  • analysing data
  • conducting laboratory experiments or fieldwork
  • project management
  • technical development
  • collaborating with colleagues across teams and departments.

Some programmes offer international placements or opportunities to work with global teams. For example, ESA trainees contribute to space missions across Europe, while PA Consulting graduates may work on international projects.

Many employers support professional development alongside practical experience. Programmes like BP and Babcock provide pathways toward chartered status, while the Environment Agency scheme leads to environmental science accreditation.

What are the entry requirements?

Most science graduate schemes expect a strong degree (typically 2:1 or above) in a relevant subject, such as:

  • biology
  • chemistry
  • engineering
  • environmental science
  • physics.

Explore our guide to university grades in the UK.

Some programmes, like the NHS or Sellafield schemes, may consider a 2:2 if you can show relevant experience and strong potential.

For research-focused schemes, postgraduate qualifications can strengthen your application, and practical experience such as internships or laboratory experience is also highly valued.

Postgraduate qualifications can strengthen applications, particularly for research-focused or specialist programmes. For example, you'll need to hold a Masters degree to apply for the ESA's programme.

While not always required, relevant work experience such as internships, lab work, or volunteering can make your application stronger by demonstrating that you have hands-on experience applying scientific knowledge.

How do I apply?

Application deadlines for science graduate schemes vary, so early preparation is essential. Be sure to start early and keep track of deadlines. For example:

  • NHS applications usually open in January.
  • Environment Agency vacancies tend to open between February and March.
  • BP, Bayer, and GSK often accept rolling applications throughout the year.

Most schemes open applications between September and March for the following autumn intake, so it helps to create a planner to track deadlines, document preparation, and online tests.

Typical application requirements include:

  • academic transcripts or references
  • a cover letter explaining your motivation and fit for the programme
  • a tailored CV highlighting relevant skills and experience.

Many programmes, such as ESA scheme or Babcock's programme, include online assessments like:

Successful candidates may then be invited to assessment centres or interviews, which could involve:

  • discussions with hiring managers
  • group exercises
  • presentations
  • problem solving challenges.

Practice aptitude tests from JobTestPrep.

What skills will I need?

Beyond strong scientific and technical knowledge, graduate scheme employers value:

  • Adaptability - responding to new technologies, methods, or changing priorities, particularly in fast-paced sectors like space, energy, or biotechnology.
  • Commercial awareness - understanding how science drives innovation and business growth, a key focus in private-sector schemes.
  • Communication - explaining complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Critical thinking and analysis - solving problems using evidence-based reasoning.
  • Teamwork and collaboration - working effectively across disciplines and departments, as graduates do on rotational schemes.
  • Time management - balancing multiple projects and deadlines, a crucial skill for rotational programmes or research-intensive roles.

For more guidance, see what skills do employers want?

How much will I earn?

Science graduate schemes typically offer competitive salaries, often above the £30,000 UK graduate average. Example starting salaries:

Example starting graduate programme salaries include:

  • AWE - £31,000
  • Babock - £35,000
  • BP - £37,000k to £48,000k (depending on business area)
  • Environment Agency - £30,685
  • LMS - £36,296
  • NHS Scientist Training Programme - £38,682 (Agenda for Change Band 6).

Most schemes also include benefits such as:

Where can a science graduate scheme take me?

Although finishing a graduate scheme doesn't automatically secure a permanent role, many programmes are structured to prepare high-performing graduates for long-term positions within the organisation.

Your future career path will depend on the focus and structure of the programme you complete, but graduates commonly progress into roles such as:

Others begin a career in leadership, policy, or technical specialist positions, or continue their studies with a PhD or professional doctorate.

With experience, you could progress into senior technical or leadership roles in research and healthcare, earning £50,000 to £70,000, with specialists in advanced research commanding even higher salaries. For example, a senior scientist at AWE earns on average £51,000, while principal scientists at GSK can earn between £121,000 and £202,000 per year.

Even if you don't stay with the same employer, the skills, networks, and experience you gain will set you up for success across science sectors in the UK and internationally.

Find out more