BSc

Physics

Key Facts

F300

  • UCAS Tariff

    120 - 112

  • Course duration

    3 years

Available for September start 2025

Further details on entry requirements

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The career-enhancing Physics degree at Aberystwyth University is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and designed to help you fulfill your potential in a supportive learning environment.

Physics is one of the oldest academic disciplines, but one which makes significant contributions to modern society, with theoretical breakthroughs feeding into new sciences and fostering modern technologies.

The concepts of Physics form the basis of most scientific language and the subject finds its way into most modern science and technology, enhancing the scope for your future employment prospects.

Course Overview

Why study Physics at Aberystwyth?

  • On completion of this degree you will leave with accreditation by the IOP (Institute of Physics).
  • Physics has been taught at Aberystwyth since its foundation and it continues to be an innovative learning experience for all.
  • You will be taught by experts in their field.
  • Our Researchers are involved in the current European Space Agency ExoMars 2020 Project and engineering low dimensional materials (i.e. graphene).
Our Staff

Department of Physics Lecturers are all qualified to PhD level and have a track record of research in their fields of specialisation.

Modules September start - 2025

Please note: The modules listed below are those currently intended for delivery during the next academic year and may be subject to change. They are included here to give an indication of how the course is structured.

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Algebra and Differential Equations * PH16210 10
Calculus * MP10610 10
Dynamics, Waves and Heat * PH10020 20
Electricity, Magnetism and Matter * PH11120 20
Further Algebra and Calculus * MP11010 10
Laboratory Techniques for Experimental Physicists and Engineers (20 Credits) * PH15720 20
Modern Physics PH14310 10
Physics Career Planning and Skills Development * PH12910 10

Options

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Astronomy PH18010 10
Communication and Technology PH19510 10
Energy and the Environment PH19010 10

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Electricity and Magnetism * PH22510 10
Mathematical Physics * PM26020 20
Numerical Techniques for Physicists PH26620 20
Optics PH22010 10
Practical Research Skills * PH25720 20
Principles of Quantum Mechanics PH23010 10
Sensors, Electronics & Instrumentation PH24520 20
Thermodynamics PH21510 10

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Concepts in Condensed Matter Physics PH32410 10
Lasers and Photonics PH34510 10
Materials Physics PH33810 10
Particles, Quanta and Fields PH33020 20
Project (40 Credits) PH37540 40
Semiconductor Technology PH33610 10

* Also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh

Careers

Our graduates have discovered career paths in:

  • Medical Physicist
  • Radiation Protection Practitioner
  • Research Scientist

Other graduates from our department have sought careers in:

  • Systems Developer
  • Product Development
  • Technical Author
  • Meteorologist

Employability is embedded across all of our teaching and ethics. We instil these skills in our students:

  • research and data analysis skills
  • enhanced mathematical and computational skills
  • effective problem-solving and creative thinking skills
  • ability to work independently
  • time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines
  • ability to express ideas and communicate information in a clear and structured manner, in both written and oral form
  • self-motivation and self-reliance
  • teamworking, with the ability to discuss concepts in groups, accommodating different ideas and reaching agreement.

What work experience opportunities exist whilst studying? 

Click here to find out about the various opportunities that our Aberystwyth University Careers team offer. 

Enhance your employability prospects with GO Wales and YES (Year in Employment Scheme) managed by our Careers department. 

Teaching & Learning

What will I learn? 

The breakdown below will provide you with an illustration of what you may study during the three year degree scheme.

In the first year you will discover:

  • classical and modern physics
  • computational and experimental physics
  • dynamics
  • basic principles of gravitational and electrostatic fields
  • astronomy
  • energy sources and their environmental impacts.

In the second year you will explore:

  • thermal physics
  • quantum mechanics
  • experimental analogue electronics
  • data handling and statistics
  • instrumentation systems.

In your final year you will investigate:

  • semiconductor physics
  • electromagnetism
  • optronics
  • condensed matter
  • atoms and molecules
  • numerical methods.

How will I be taught?

We teach our students through lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, practicals, individual and group-based project work.

We assess our students through coursework, presentations, lab reports, lab diaries and examinations.

Further information:

You will be assigned a personal tutor throughout your degree course, who will help you with any problems or queries, whether these are academic-related or personal issues. You should feel free to contact them at any time for help and advice.

You will also have the opportunity to complete a Personal Development Plan (PDP) at Aberystwyth. This is a structured process of self-appraisal, reflection, and planning, which will enable you to chart your personal, academic and professional development throughout your time at university. By recording your academic performance, and highlighting the skills you already have and those you will need for future employability, the PDP portfolio will equip you with the necessary tools to plan effectively, develop successful approaches to study, and consider your future career options and aspirations.

Student Testimonials

Everyday Physics enhances your understanding of the universe and everything we experience. Passionate scientists inform you of their contributions to science at the forefront of physics. Your time is split between gaining hands-on laboratory experience using exciting equipment including lasers, oscilloscopes and spectrometers, and lectures that will inspire and interest you. Each module challenges your intelligence and allows you to gain knowledge that most people benefit from but do not know exists. Students achieve excellence, and stretch their minds. It requires time and effort, but the skills and understanding you gain are second to none. Sarah Chandler

Typical Entry Requirements

UCAS Tariff 120 - 112

A Levels BBB-BBC to include B in Physics and B in Mathematics

GCSE requirements (minimum grade C/4):
English or Welsh and Mathematics

BTEC National Diploma:
DDM-DMM with B in A level Physics and B in Mathematics

International Baccalaureate:
30-28 with 5 points in Physics and Mathematics at Higher Level

European Baccalaureate:
75%-65% overall with 7 in Physics and Mathematics

English Language Requirements:
See our Undergraduate English Language Requirements for this course. Pre-sessional English Programmes are also available for students who do not meet our English Language Requirements.

Country Specific Entry Requirements:
International students whose qualification is not listed on this page, can check our Country Specific Entry Requirements for further information.

The University welcomes undergraduate applications from students studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma or T-level qualifications, provided that relevant subject content and learning outcomes are met. We are not able to accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas or T-levels as a general qualification for every undergraduate degree course.
Our inclusive admissions policy values breadth as well as depth of study. Applicants are selected on their own individual merits and offers can vary. If you would like to check the eligibility of your qualifications before submitting an application, please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for advice and guidance.

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