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Studying physics degree guide

Physics involves looking at physical things and studying how they behave with energy and other forces and what happens as a result of those interactions. Read our guide to find out all you need to know about studying it at uni.   

Eleanor Foulds
by Eleanor Foulds
Last Updated:
03 Nov 2022

Physics is one of the most important scientific subjects as it’s all about how the universe works. You may not realise, but physics affects pretty much everything – from the small stuff, like making a cup of tea, up to the most complex aspects of the universe, like how planets revolve around the sun. If you’re a curious student with good problem-solving skills and an interest in discovering how things work, then physics might be the subject for you.

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What do you need to get on a physics degree?


The ranges of entry requirements for physics are as follows:

  • UCAS points: 96 – 168
  • A-levels: A*A*A* – CCC
  • Scottish Highers: AAAAA – BBBB (Advanced Highers: AAA– BBB)
  • BTEC Nationals: D*D*D – DMM
  • International Baccalaureate: 39 – 26

Most physics courses will ask for an A-level (or equivalent) in physics and maths.

Find out how to apply to uni through UCAS.

Learn how to write a winning personal statement.

What physics degrees can you study?


Degrees in physics include:

  • BSc Physics
  • MSci Physics
  • MSci Theoretical Physics
  • BSc Mathematics and Physics
  • BSc Astronomy and Physics
  • BSc Computer Science and Physics


Learn about the different types of undergraduate courses.  

What topics does a physics degree cover?


Common modules for physics include:

  • Atoms, stars and the universe
  • Dynamics and relativity
  • Partial differential equations
  • Introduction to nuclear science
  • Physics of nanomaterials
  • Pure and applied geophysics
  • Astrophysics
  • Quantum and statistical physics
  • Solar system science
  • Solid state physics
  • Thermal physics and the properties of matter

“The thing with physics is you start off studying lots of different areas seemingly at random, which all start to come together as you get further into the course. The modules that stood out for me were vector calculus, introduction to astrophysics and physics laboratories, where you have four hours per week to carry out an experiment and are marked on how well you do it.” – Ciaran, Physics student at the University of Sussex 

What do you learn studying a physics degree?


Studying a physics degree will help you gain industry-specific skills like:

  • Scientific research
  • Lab skills
  • Experiment design
  • Knowledge of natural laws of physics
  • Computing
  • Data handling

More general, transferable skills you’ll pick up include:

  • Problem-solving
  • Critical thinking
  • Innovation
  • Team working
  • Communication
  • Attention-to-detail
  • Data management and analysis
  • Report-writing
  • Analysing trends
  • Independent thinking
  • Independent working
  • Observation and analysis

What professional accreditations can you get with a physics degree?


Several physics courses are accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP). This may give you the requirements for Chartered Physicist status (CPhys).

What can you do with a physics degree?


A physics degree opens up lots of doors in the working world. Here are some jobs that can be got after studying physics:

Check out our careers guides here.

Where to study physics?

Check the latest ranking of unis offering physics courses by the Complete University Guide

How long is a physics degree?


Lots of physics degrees take three years to study. However, some unis will give the option of an MPhys course which includes a master’s qualification and lasts four years. Some courses will also offer a year in industry or a research placement which will also increase the course to four years.

How will you be assessed?

Physics courses usually involve assessment through:

  • Exams 
  • Coursework
  • Literature reviews
  • Lab sessions
  • Reports
  • Presentations 

What are the postgraduate opportunities?


Your options for further study include:

  • MSc Physics
  • MSc Particle Physics
  • MSc Physics with Education
  • MSc Applied Physics
  • MSc Astrophysics
  • MSc Nuclear Science

What alternatives are there to a physics degree?


Not sure if a physics degree is right for you? Check out these related subjects:

Natural Sciences

Astrophysics

Maths

Engineering
 

Find physics degrees.