National Student Survey reveals the strengths of Natural Sciences at York

Posted on 15 July 2021

The results of a nationwide survey have revealed that the School of Natural Sciences is home to some of the happiest natural science students in the UK.

1st in the Russell Group for ‘Learning resources’ in National Student Survey

We placed 1st for ‘Learning resources’ among the Russell Group universities included for natural sciences (non-specific) in the 2023 National Student Survey (NSS), with a score of 94%. We received 97 per cent for Q19. “How well have the IT resources and facilities supported your learning?”, 89 per cent for Q20. “How well have the library resources (e.g. books, online services and learning spaces) supported your learning?”, and 97 per cent for Q21. “How easy is it to access subject specific resources (e.g. equipment, facilities, software) when you need them?”

We also ranked highly within the Russell Group in the following areas:

3rd for ‘Academic support’ in natural sciences (non-specific)

Including:

Q15. “How easy was it to contact teaching staff when you needed to?” 90 per cent
Q16. “How well have teaching staff supported your learning?” 93 per cent

Dr Katherine Selby, Director of the School of Natural Sciences said “It is once again pleasing to see such positive results for Natural Sciences from the NSS. Of particular note is the high score received for learning resources. Natural Sciences placed very highly among Russell Group universities, as well as within the sector as a whole. Thanks are extended to all who contribute to Natural Sciences; academic and support staff and students.”

What is the National Student Survey?

The NSS is a nationwide survey of final-year students in higher and further education. They answer questions on a variety of aspects of their university experience, including their department and course.

Over 339,000 took part in the 2023 survey, helping prospective students to compare courses and make informed decisions about where to study. The survey empowers those taking part to shape the future of their course, giving universities honest feedback on what they are doing well and where they can improve.

York's overall position

York performed strongly in this year’s National Student Survey, featuring in the top 10 for multiple categories among Russell Group universities.

The University as a whole placed 5th in the Russell Group for Learning Resources, 6th for Academic Support and 6th for Organisation and Management.

Ten subjects featured in the top three in the Russell Group for Academic Support, while a further eleven were placed in the top three for Teaching On My Course.

Read more about York’s excellent NSS results.