Physics

Physics at Queen's University Belfast offers a comprehensive and rigorous programme designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles governing the universe. This undergraduate degree combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to explore a wide range of topics, from classical mechanics and electromagnetism to modern quantum physics and astrophysics. Throughout the course, students engage in laboratory experiments, computational modelling, and research projects that enhance their technical abilities and foster critical thinking. The programme is structured to develop both core scientific knowledge and transferable skills, such as problem-solving, analytical reasoning, and effective communication. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and are encouraged to participate in collaborative projects, research initiatives, and industry placements, which prepare them for diverse career paths in academia, research, engineering, data science, and technology sectors. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career ambitions, with options to specialize in areas like condensed matter physics, particle physics, or astrophysics. Queen’s Physics department is renowned for its high-quality research environment, fostering a vibrant academic community where students can contribute to cutting-edge scientific discoveries. The programme not only aims to develop scientific expertise but also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and societal impact of scientific advances. Graduates of the Physics degree at Queen’s University Belfast leave well-equipped with rigorous analytical skills, a solid knowledge base, and practical experience, making them highly competitive in the job market or well-prepared for postgraduate study. The university also offers dedicated support services to assist students throughout their academic journey, ensuring a rewarding and enriching educational experience. Whether aspiring to explore the mysteries of the cosmos or create innovative technological solutions, students in this programme are prepared to make significant contributions to science and society.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

Stage 1

Students study Physics, Applied Mathematics, and, if desired, a third subject such as Computer Science. Physics topics include:

• Atomic and nuclear physics
• Electromagnetism
• Optics and lasers
• Quantum theory
• Relativity
• Solid state physics
• Thermal physics

Practical work includes the use of computers in physics, as well as a full range of experiments designed to develop laboratory skills, allowing students to experience phenomena covered in lectures. Tutorials, and problems set in connection with them, give experience in verbal and written communication, and in problem-solving.

Stages 2 and 3

Physics may be studied either as a Single Honours degree, as Physics, Physics with Astrophysics, Physics with Biomedical Applications, Physics with Extended Studies in Europe, Physics with Financial Mathematics, or Theoretical Physics; or depending on choice of Stage 1 modules, as a Joint Honours degree in conjunction with Applied Mathematics or Computer Science.

At Stage 2, according to degree selection, modules are taken which reveal the excitement of such areas as:

• Astronomy
• Atoms, Nuclei and Radiation
• Modern Physics
• Optics, Electricity and Magnetism
• Physics of the Solid State

Physics project work develops the skills of planning, carrying out and analysing experiments and simulations, and provides opportunities for deepening understanding of the wide applicability of physics.

At Stage 3, a choice of modules is made to develop further understanding of such areas as:

• Astrophysics
• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Electromagnetic Radiation and Modern Optics
• Nuclear and Fundamental Particle Physics
• Optoelectronics and Physical Electronic
• Physics in Medicine
• Quantum Mechanics and Relativity
• Solid State Physics

Project work entails a major experimental or computational investigation of a particular physics problem; in conjunction with this a project report and associated poster are produced to a professional standard.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

BSc Applied Mathematics and Physics, BSc Theoretical Physics

• A-level A (Mathematics) BB including Physics
• Irish Leaving Certificate AB2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade A in Mathematics and Higher Level grade B2 in Physics

• BSc Physics with Financial Mathematics

• A-level AAB at A-level including grade A in Mathematics and Physics
  OR
  A* (Mathematics) A (Physics) C
• Irish Leaving Certificate AAB2B2B2C including Higher Level grade A in Mathematics and Physics

BSc other options

• A-level BBB at A-level including Mathematics and Physics
• Irish Leaving Certificate B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Mathematics and Physics

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Queen's University Belfast.

Accreditation

The degrees are accredited by the Institute of Physics with the exception of the new Physics with Financial Mathematics pathway, for which accreditation will be sought in the near future. Since it contains all the core physics elements common to the other accredited pathways it is anticipated that this accreditation will be granted.