BEng

Engineering Physics (with integrated year in industry)

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You are viewing this course for September start 2024

Engineering Physics (with integrated year in industry) at Aberystwyth University applies physical principles and techniques to engineering and technology. The degree combines the knowledge, training and skills of a discipline in Physics with the production of engineering solutions in real-world situations.

You will spend a year working in industry during your third year, which will give you a head start in your chosen career and allow you to develop the core skills that employers want, allowing for a smoother transition from campus to career.

Even though it is one of the oldest academic disciplines, Physics makes significant contributions to modern society, with theoretical breakthroughs that feed into new sciences and foster modern technologies. The degree is accredited by the IOP (Institute of Physics).

Course Overview

Why study BEng Engineering Physics at Aberystwyth?

  • Focus on a strong practical and IT component
  • Gain specialised knowledge in topics such as: micro and nano-electronics, applied photonics, materials design and production, quantum technology, robotics, solar energy and space instrumentation
  • Prepare for a career as an engineer or scientist in areas such as industrial research and development, product development and work in national research laboratories
  • Our researchers are involved in the current European Space Agency ExoMars 2020 Project and engineering low dimensional materials, namely graphene
  • The Department offers a number of modules through the medium of Welsh: further details are available from the Department
  • Students who are interested in undertaking a Masters qualification may be interested in our MEng Engineering Physics course
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 - 2024

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
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
Year In Industry PHS0160 60

* Also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh

Careers

What can I do with a degree in Engineering Physics?

This course is designed to allow students to progress and pursue a career in engineering, research and development.

But other graduates from the Physics department have discovered other pathways:

  • Medical Physicist
  • Radiation Protection Practitioner
  • Research Scientist
  • Systems Developer
  • Product Development
  • Technical Author
  • Meteorologist

Employability is embedded across all of our teaching and ethics. We instill 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

Teaching & Learning

What will I learn?

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

In your first year you may explore:

  • Calculus
  • Classical Dynamics
  • Classical Physics
  • Introduction to Computational and Experimental Physics
  • Algebra and Differential Equations 
  • Communication Technology
  • Forces and Energy
  • Modern Physics 

In your second year you may discover:

  • Mathematical Physics
  • Thermodynamics
  • Data Handling and Statistics
  • Instrumentation, Electronics and Sensors
  • Optics
  • Electricity and Magnetism 
  • Experimental Physics 
  • Quantum Mechanics

In your third year, you will undertake your work experience placement in an industry relevant to this degree. 

In your fourth year you may research:

  • Concepts in Condensed Matter Physics
  • Numerical Methods
  • Systems Engineering 
  • Engineering Control Theory 
  • Semiconductor Technology
  • An individual project
  • Probing Atoms and Molecules
  • Professional issues industry
  • Modern Optics and Photonics
  • Condensed Matter Structure Determination 
  • Machine Learning 
  • Space Robotics

How will I be taught?

You will be taught through lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, practicals, individual and group-based project work.

You will be assessed 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.

Students wishing to study through the medium of Welsh may do so by choosing our Welsh medium modules. 

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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