UK Physics Degree

Cover a wide range of topics in physics and modern physical principles and help shape future discoveries

Physics courses deal with the fundamental principles of nature and the behaviour of matter and energy. The UK is one of the leading countries for studying physics, with a long history of breakthroughs in the field. 

Studying physics in the UK offers students a unique opportunity to receive high-quality education and gain exposure to a range of cutting-edge research. The demand for physicists in the UK is high, with opportunities in fields such as renewable energy, healthcare and engineering. The UK government has identified the need for more skilled workers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and has created initiatives to encourage more students to study these subjects.

At the undergraduate level, physics students in the UK will study a range of topics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics. Postgraduate students can specialise in areas such as particle physics, astrophysics, quantum computing, and condensed matter physics. Students studying physics in the UK can choose to attend a range of universities, including some of the most prestigious in the world. They will benefit from access to world-class facilities and research opportunities, as well as the chance to work with leading academics and experts in the field.

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Types of Physics Degrees

- BSc Physics

BSc Physics provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles of physics. In the UK, this course typically lasts for three to four years, depending on the university and the course structure. Studying BSc in Physics in the UK offers students a broad range of career opportunities, such as working in scientific research, engineering, finance, and technology. Graduates may also pursue further studies at the postgraduate level, such as a Master's or a PhD in Physics.

The syllabus for a BSc in Physics in the UK is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of physics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics. 

- MSc Physics

MSc Physics provides an in-depth understanding of the principles of physics and its applications in various fields. In the UK, this course usually lasts for one year, which can be extended to two years, depending on the university and the course structure.

Studying MSc in Physics in the UK offers students a broad range of career opportunities, such as working in scientific research, engineering, finance, and technology.

The syllabus for an MSc in Physics in the UK imparts specialised knowledge in a particular field of physics, such as particle physics, astrophysics, quantum computing, or condensed matter physics.

- Joint Honours in Physics

A joint honours degree in Physics allows students to combine the study of physics with other subjects, such as mathematics, astronomy, computer science or engineering. The degree is typically delivered in three to four years, depending on the university and the course structure. Studying a joint honours degree in Physics opens up a diverse range of career opportunities, such as working in scientific research, engineering, finance, and technology.

Graduate Physics Careers and Salary

There are many career paths available to physics graduates, including:

• Research scientist
• Engineer
• Data analyst
• Medical physicist
• Science writer/journalist
• Science educator
• Patent attorney
• Government work

Gaining additional skills and experience and reaching one's potential can often result in an increase in both age and income for many individuals. London, renowned as the education hub of the world and the UK's central location for recruiting graduates, provides many profitable career prospects.

• Average starting professional salary: £21,609
• Average Physicist salary: £50,000

Source: National Careers Service (UK Government)

Physics UK Entry Requirements

Please note that entry requirements for physics courses vary across each UK university, but generally, students will need the following:

• Typical International Baccalaureate requirements: 30 points overall or 14 at HL, including HL Maths/Maths Method or HL Mathematics.
• Typical A-level requirements: A*A*A, including A* in both Physics and Mathematics.
• Typical IELTS requirements: At least 7.0 overall with no sub-test below 6.5

Where can I study Physics in the UK?

To learn more about the best physics universities in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Physics universities in the Guardian University Guide 2024 below:

1. University of Oxford
2. Durham University
3. University of Cambridge
4. Lancaster University
5. University of St Andrews
6. University of Aberdeen
7. Loughborough University
8. University of Warwick
9. University of Exeter
10. Cardiff University

Study Physics in the UK

If you are interested in studying physics in the UK, arrange your free consultation with SI-UK today.

Contact SI-UK about your application