Physics

Our Physics undergraduate program at the University of Surrey offers a comprehensive and engaging curriculum designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of physics, along with opportunities to explore cutting-edge developments in the field. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory work, enabling students to develop essential analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and experimental techniques that are vital for a successful career in physics and related disciplines. Students will study core areas such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, thermodynamics, and mathematical methods, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the science.

Throughout the course, students have the flexibility to specialize in various fields including condensed matter physics, astrophysics, particle physics, and more, allowing for tailored academic experiences that align with their interests and career aspirations. The programme also emphasizes the importance of research skills, offering opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects and collaborate with faculty who are experts in their respective fields. This practical research experience enhances critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, or further postgraduate study.

The University of Surrey provides state-of-the-art laboratories, advanced computational facilities, and a vibrant academic community to support student learning and innovation. The degree program also includes opportunities for industrial placements, internships, and study-abroad exchanges, enabling students to gain real-world experience and develop a global perspective. Our dedicated academic staff are committed to supporting student success through personalized guidance, mentoring, and flexible learning options.

Graduates from Surrey’s Physics program are well-equipped with both theoretical understanding and practical expertise, making them highly competitive in the job market. Many alumni have gone on to work in research institutions, nuclear and aerospace industries, education, data science, and technology companies. The programme fosters a stimulating environment for curious minds eager to explore the fundamental workings of the universe, equipping students with the skills necessary to innovate, problem-solve, and contribute meaningfully to scientific advancement and technological development.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10790 Year (EEA)
• EUR 19000 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU Students -£9,000.00 ;
Overseas Students - £15,920.00

• English

Course Content

Year 1 (FHEQ Level 4)

Year 1 gives you the core physics and mathematics you need. You will get to grips with the fundamental principles of physics and be introduced to modern physics, from quantum mechanics to relativity. Building on these principles, you will explore the breadth of the world of physics, looking at atoms, star formation, cosmology, the Schrödinger equation, and even measure the speed of light. You will also be introduced to the theories developed to deal with physical processes beyond the normal speeds and sizes of everyday life. See our world through Schrödinger’s eyes.Modules include:

• Atoms, Molecules and Quanta
• Employability Skills and Communication
• Mathematical and Computational Physics
• Oscillations and Waves
• The Universe

Year 2 (FHEQ Level 5)

In Year 2, you will continue to expand your understanding of and experience with both classical and modern physical theories and concepts. In addition, you will be able to choose the areas that you want to specialise in and tailor your degree pathway to suit your interests by selecting from a choice of optional modules. Modules include:

• Electromagnetic Waves
• Energy and Entropy
• Nuclear and Particle Physics

Specialist and optional modules include:

• Modern Optics and Applications
• Space Science

Professional Training placement (optional)

Taking a Professional Training year can add real value to your experience and will allow you to make your theoretical understanding come alive in the world outside university. This experience will not only be important when you graduate, but will also help you get the most from the final year of your undergraduate degree. If you decide not to do the Professional Training year, you proceed directly to Year 3 to complete your taught modules and graduate in your third year.

Year 3 (FHEQ Level 6)

Year 3 will see you specialise in your chosen field and deliver your final-year project. Through your work on this final-year project, you will develop your scientific writing skills, as well as your communication and presentation style. BSc students undertake an extended research project in their final semester and can currently choose up to six optional modules. Modules include:

• General Relativity and Cosmology
• Light and Matter
• Medical Imaging
• Nuclear Astrophysics
• Photonics and Nanotechnology
• Quantum Physics

Year 4 (MPhys only, FHEQ Level 7)

Our MPhys programmes are four-year programmes with an integrated research year that is unique in the UK. MPhys students undertake a problem-solving module and choose up to five optional modules. The range of modules available may vary from year to year, but your freedom to choose which options to study remains our priority. The unique research year begins after you have completed half of your Year 3 taught modules, at the end of the Autumn semester.Modules include:

• MPhys Research Year (project in one of the world’s top laboratories)
• Non-Linear Physics
• Topics in Theoretical Physics

Teaching

You will have a stimulating mixture of lectures, laboratory work, tutorials, practical exercises and computational classes. There will be assigned coursework, problem solving and projects. Computers are used extensively, as teaching aids via self-learning packages, in the laboratory for experimental control and data analysis, in modelling of physical problems and for effective communication.

Eight practical laboratory half-modules are designed to introduce particular elements of physics, experimental design, data analysis, background research and technical writing. A ninth module introduces computational modelling, the topic of which can be based upon your personal interests.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

Requirements

A-level

MPhys: A-level grades AAB

BSc: A-level grades ABB

Access to HE Diploma

GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C or above (or equivalent).

BTEC (QCF Level 3) Extended Diploma

MPhys: DDD (in an appropriate subject, with a supporting A-level in Mathematics at grade A)

BSc: DDM (in an appropriate subject, with a supporting A-level in Mathematics at grade B or above)

Cambridge Pre-U

GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C or above (or equivalent).

European Baccalaureate

MPhys: 75%

BSc: 74%

(including 8 in Mathematics and Physics)

International Baccalaureate

MPhys: 35 points

BSc: 34 points

(to include Mathematics and Physics grade 6 at HL)

Other international qualifications

If you are an international student and you don’t meet the entry requirements to this degree, we offer the International Foundation Year.

Required subjects

GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C or above (or equivalent).

For all programmes: Mathematics and Physics required to A-level (or equivalent).

Selection process

Offers are normally made in terms of grades. Suitable candidates may be invited to an Applicant Day. During the visit to the University the candidate can find out more about the programme and meet staff and students.

English language requirements

Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above, with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-skill (or equivalent).

We offer intensive English language pre-sessional courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.

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 University of Surrey.

Funding

Bursaries and scholarships

We encourage applications from everyone with the ability to study for a Surrey degree, and understand that finance is a factor that affects most people’s decisions. We are committed to making sure that we offer support for students who might need it.

Our bursaries and scholarships are among the most competitive in the country, with both merit-based and means-tested awards available.

http://www.surrey.ac.uk/discover/undergraduate-tuition-fees-bursaries-scholarships

The BSc Physics program at the University of Surrey offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles and applications of physics. Designed to provide a solid scientific foundation, the course covers a wide range of topics, including classical and quantum physics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and modern physics. Students have the opportunity to develop their analytical, problem-solving, and experimental skills through a combination of lectures, laboratory work, and independent research projects. The program emphasizes real-world applications of physics in industries such as aerospace, energy, telecommunications, and healthcare, preparing graduates for a variety of career paths or further postgraduate study. The university's state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities enable students to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge technologies and experimental techniques. The course also offers optional modules in areas such as astrophysics, condensed matter physics, and computational physics, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. The program encourages critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration through group projects and research initiatives. Additionally, students benefit from the university's strong links with industry and academia, providing opportunities for placements, internships, and networking events that enhance employability. The BSc Physics program typically spans three years, with options for integrated master's or placement years, and prepares students for careers in research, education, engineering, data analysis, and technology development. Overall, the program aims to develop well-rounded physicists equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to contribute effectively to advancements in science and technology.