BSc Physics
Entry requirements
A level: A*A*A including Mathematics and Physics. IB: 38 with 776 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics (maths analysis & approaches) and Physics.
About this course
BSc (Hons) in Physics, a physics degree grounded in mathematical and computational approaches to physical theory. Core topics include Programming, Microelectronics, Data Analysis, Statistics, Mathematical Modelling, Laboratory Techniques and Research Methods. The programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics, and the first-year curriculum is shared with the MPhys routes, allowing students to switch courses until the end of the second year. Students may also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad, extending the programme to four years. Year 1 lays the foundations through Foundations of Physics 1 (mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, special relativity) and Discovery Skills in Physics, introducing laboratory measurement, data analysis and programming. Mathematics is compulsory, taken via one of two pathways: Single Mathematics A with Single Mathematics B, or Linear Algebra I with Calculus I. Year 2 advances quantum mechanics and electromagnetism in Foundations of Physics 2A, covers optics, thermodynamics and condensed matter in Foundations of Physics 2B, and develops mathematics and laboratory electronics skills through Mathematical Methods in Physics and Laboratory Skills and Electronics; past options have included Stars and Galaxies, Theoretical Physics 2 and Physics in Society. Year 3 deepens quantum mechanics, nuclear and particle physics in Foundations of Physics 3A, and semiconductors, superconductors and magnetism in Foundations of Physics 3B. Students then complete either Computing Project or BSc Project, plus one or both of Team Project and Advanced Laboratory. Final-year options have included Planets and Cosmology 3, Theoretical Physics 3, Condensed Matter Physics 3 and Modern Atomic and Optical Physics 3.
Modules
- Foundations of Physics 1
- Discovery Skills in Physics
- Mathematics Modules (40 credits) - Please choose one of the following two pathways:
- EITHER Pathway 1: Single Mathematics A and Single Mathematics B
- Pathway 1: Single Mathematics A
- Pathway 1: Single Mathematics B
- OR Pathway 2: Linear Algebra I and Calculus I
- Pathway 2: Linear Algebra I
- Pathway 2: Calculus I
- Example optional modules
- Foundations of Physics 2A
- Foundations of Physics 2B
- Mathematical Methods in Physics
- Laboratory Skills and Electronics
- Example optional modules
- Foundations of Physics 3A
- Foundations of Physics 3B
- Choose one of the following two modules:
- EITHER Computing Project
- OR BSc Project
- Choose one or both of the following two modules:
- EITHER Team Project
- AND / OR: Advanced Laboratory
- Example optional modules