Physics (International) BSc

Course overview

Physics is the most fundamental of all sciences, delving into the way the world around us works to provide technological advances and innovations for centuries.

From developing cancer treatments and artificial intelligence to answering the foundational questions of the universe, physics and physicists have had a significant impact across a variety of different industries, which is why it’s still such a sought-after and relevant discipline today.

Studying for a Physics degree at the University of Leeds will provide you with the opportunity to delve deeply into the fundamental laws of nature and participate in cutting-edge research alongside renowned academics and researchers at the forefront of Physics and Mathematics.

You will have access to state-of-the-art research and specialised facilities on campus, including the purpose-built Sir William Henry Bragg Building, which serves as the academic home for physics students. Here, you will have access to top-of-the-line laboratories and specialised teaching spaces, as well as the Bragg Centre, where scientists and engineers work together to address global challenges in technology, society and economy. During your final year, you will have the chance to collaborate with our physicists on current research projects.

At Leeds, we recognise the vital role physics plays in industry, and as such, our courses are designed to reflect the latest advancements and applications of the subject. All of our physics courses are professionally accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and upon graduation, you will be eligible to apply for chartered physicist (CPhys) status. This program will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to launch a successful career in this highly valued profession, with a wide range of career options available.

Study abroad year

This programme gives you the opportunity to undertake a study abroad year as part of your course. It's a lifechanging experience – and your chance to build key professional and personal skills, whilst immersing yourself in another culture and broadening your outlook on life.

Why study at Leeds:

• This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).
• Our School’s globally-renowned research feeds into the course, shaping what you learn with the latest thinking.
• Enhance your skillset and give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate with a year studying abroad.
• Learn from expert academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of physics disciplines.
• Access specialist facilities including laboratories and teaching spaces right here on campus.
• Our comprehensive approach to teaching will give you a holistic understanding of how physics, mathematics, computing and experimental learning link together to qualify you as a physicist.
• Get hands-on and put theory into practice through exciting project work.
• At the end of your second year, there is the possibility of transferring to the four-year integrated Masters (MPhys, BSc) course.
• Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining our student society Physics Society (Physoc), a student-run society for physics students. It’ll give you the chance to meet like-minded students who share your passion for physics and enjoy a range of activities including guest lectures, trips and frequent socials.

View this video on Bilibili.

Accreditation

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the relevant professional body.

This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).

This BSc degree guarantees you eligibility for IOP membership and is accredited as meeting the academic requirement needed to follow the route to professional registration as a registered scientist (RSci) or a chartered physicist (CPhys).

Institute of Physics (IOP)

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the relevant professional body.

This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).

This BSc degree guarantees you eligibility for IOP membership and is accredited as meeting the academic requirement needed to follow the route to professional registration as a registered scientist (RSci) or a chartered physicist (CPhys).

Course details and modules

We've designed this course to enable you to develop your physics knowledge, alongside the mathematical, computational and experimental methods that are needed to become qualified as a physicist.

As you move through the course, you'll increasingly build on a solid foundation in physics to learn about and work on the latest developments in the subject, based on our research expertise. You’ll also cover topics such as ethics, philosophy and career options in physics.

You progress through Years 1 and 2 by building a solid foundation in the subject. As you study each topic and develop new skills, your understanding is checked through assessments that take place during the course. Completing all these successfully shows that you have reached the required standard across all areas, allowing you to move on to the next year of your degree. Your later exams and assessments then give you the opportunity to demonstrate your deeper knowledge and growing mastery of the subject.

Each academic year, you'll take a total of 120 credits.

Course Structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read Physics BSc in the course catalogue.

Years 1 and 2

Throughout your first two years, you'll gain knowledge and skills and learn how to apply them to solve problems across the fundamental areas of physics including: electrodynamics, thermal physics, classical mechanics, quantum physics, solid state physics, waves, optics, contemporary physics and physics for sustainable development.

Our degree programmes highlight the interconnected nature of physics, both in the way we teach and in how you are assessed. In your first two years, in-course assessments allow you to demonstrate the solid understanding needed to progress. End of ‑semester exams, together with a portfolio of other assessments and transferable skills, then give you the opportunity to show your full mastery of the subject.

Mathematics is integrated into the Physics modules throughout years 1 and 2, to ensure it is delivered at the time it is required, and with the appropriate context from the physics, enhancing the link between the learnt skill and its application.

Computer programming is an integral part of physics, and during the first two years you'll be taught the programming skills that you need, using Python.

Year 1 core Physics modules (100 credits)

Mechanics, Relativity and Astrophysics

In mechanics, you’ll learn how to describe motion through physical space, together with the general causes of that motion: forces and energies. You'll also learn about using appropriate co-ordinate systems and the synergies between linear and circular motions. You’ll develop the mathematical skills to describe mechanical processes, including vectors, unit vectors, scalar and vector products, calculus and summations.

In special relativity, you'll extend your knowledge of co-ordinate systems to study motion as it appears to observers moving at different speeds. You'll also cover the theories originally developed by Einstein to describe this motion at speeds approaching the speed of light, and how the forces and energies of classical mechanics extend into the regime.

In Astrophysics, you'll learn how to apply basic physical principles to objects in the Universe and explore the basics of radiation and how we observe these phenomena.

Thermodynamics

Explore the underpinning theories and concepts of thermodynamics. Examples and applications will be used to allow you to build your understanding and application of this branch of physics, including in sustainable energy, which governs the behaviour of the universe we live in.

Electronics, Solid State and Introduction to Quantum Physics

In solid state and quantum physics, you’ll cover the underpinning theories and concepts including mechanics of solids, Bohr atom, atomic electron states, elementary bonding, elasticity, Photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, De Broglie relation, Wave-particle duality Crystal structure and X-ray diffraction.

In addition, you’ll analyse and design simple electric circuits using fundamental circuit elements, such as resistors, capacitors and inductors.

You’ll also learn the principles of Boolean algebra and its application in digital logic design.

Vibrations, Waves and Optics

Vibrations and waves are ubiquitous phenomena, occurring in widely different physical systems, from molecules to musical instruments to tectonic plates. Nevertheless, they can be described by a common mathematical approach, which this module provides.

In vibrations and waves, you’ll learn about oscillators, energy and resonance, different types of waves, energy/power transfer, reflection and transmission, impedance, superposition and interference, the wave-like behaviour of light, mirrors, lenses, nonlinear optics and lasers, the solution of 2nd order partial differential equations, complex numbers, Fourier series and an introduction to Fourier transforms.

Coding and Experimental Physics

Develop practical experimental, computational, communication and employability skills. You’ll build experimental skills through a range of laboratory tasks undertaken throughout the year and be introduced to programming using the Python computer programming language. You’ll also undertake tasks and assessments designed to improve your teamwork and presentation skills, as well as reflective practice. 

Optional modules

You’ll choose up to 20 credits of the following optional modules. Or you may choose to combine one optional module with a Discovery module.

Discovery modules give you the chance to apply your physics toolkit in real-world scenarios whilst expanding out into different areas, broadening your knowledge and giving you that competitive edge in the jobs market.

Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options.

Introduction to Nanotechnology (10 credits)

The smallest possible devices that can be fabricated are on the nanometre length scale. Miniaturisation of devices offers many new technological opportunities, which are only just starting to be implemented in our lives. The physical properties of nanomaterials differ from both the constituent atoms and the bulk material. These can be unique and surprising. This module aims to introduce the physics behind nanotechnology in a semi-quantitative manner, without requiring knowledge of quantum mechanics or Maxwell’s equations. To understand nanotechnology, we will describe the physics of atoms and molecules, before moving on to discuss nano and bulk properties. We will cover a number of nanotechnological applications currently adopted and on the horizon, including nanomedicine.

Planets and the Search for Life (10 credits)

Explore the multitude of planets that are currently being discovered around other stars and compare them to those in our solar system. This module will concentrate on the concepts involved and is non-mathematical, and therefore amenable to students of the arts, humanities and sciences. We will examine the origin and evolution of the solar system and how it is likely to have produced the range of planets, moons and minor bodies that we see today. This will be contrasted with the range of extra-solar planets, their detection, properties, and how they challenge our understanding of how planets are formed. Finally, the conditions for life to emerge will be discussed and the prospects and techniques for finding life elsewhere in the solar system and on exo-planets will be explored.

Artificial Intelligence for scientists (10 credits)

This module introduces key concepts in artificial intelligence (AI), exploring the differences between narrow AI, which excels at specific tasks, and general AI, which aims to replicate human-like cognitive abilities. Through real-world examples from scientific applications, you’ll gain insight into the various classes of AI systems, such as expert systems, neural networks, and reinforcement learning models. The module emphasises how AI is transforming scientific fields, including physics and chemistry, and highlights the ethical considerations and limitations associated with AI technologies. By the end of the module, you’ll have a foundational understanding of AI systems and their applications across science.

Year 2 core Physics modules (80 credtis)

Quantum Mechanics

Learn how to describe quantum systems using wavefunctions, operators and linear algebra and how to predict outcomes of measurements on quantum systems. You’ll also learn to solve the Schrodinger equation for simple model systems and understand the structure of atoms and molecules using the exclusion principle and spin.

In addition, you’ll learn about the structure of the atomic nucleus, predict various forms of radioactive decay and nuclear reactions, describe scattering processes between elementary particles and understand the key components of the Standard Model of particle physics.

Statistical Mechanics and Computation

Explore the concepts and applications of statistical mechanics, which are key to understanding the behaviour of small-particle systems.

This module will also enable you to translate descriptions of physical problems and data analysis processes into short programs to read and manipulate data, analyse and present the results for problems relevant to physics using a programming language.

Condensed Matter Physics

During this module, you’ll learn about the use of the density of states to explain some of the differences between metals, semiconductors and insulators. You’ll also cover how to derive the free-electron density of states, perform straight-forward calculations based on the free-electron theory and how a periodic potential modifies the free-electron dispersion relation, solving problems on the transport properties of semiconductors, and calculating the magnetic properties (consistent with the syllabus) of paramagnets and ferromagnets.

You’ll also build skills in communicating physics in preparation for projects/dissertations and research a topic of physics and communicate it in various formats whilst considering the importance of professional ethics and scientific conduct.

Electromagnetism

Learn how to use the integral versions of Maxwell's equations and to calculate fields in cases of simple symmetric geometry, calculate the force and energy in electric and magnetic fields, Maxwell's equations in both integral and differential form and discuss their derivation from the physical laws of electromagnetism. You’ll analyse simple AC circuits containing resistors, capacitors and inductors and apply logic principles to real-world scenarios in electronics and emerging technologies, developing the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the evolving landscape of electronic systems, from classical to quantum. As part of this module, you’ll also consider future career plans and complete a CV, LinkedIn profile and job application forms.

Optional modules

You’ll choose one of the following optional modules.

Experimental Physics (40 credits)

This module is your chance to advance your key laboratory and research skills. This includes understanding the appropriate use of experimental and measuring equipment and being able to draw conclusions from results obtained, as well as understanding the accuracy of those results to critically analyse the obtained data. You’ll then present those results in an appropriate fashion for different audiences. The group project will build your skills in working on physics experiments as part of a team, alongside an in-depth open-ended study that will prepare you for your final year research projects.

Experimental Physics and Astrophysics (40 credits)

This module is your chance to advance your key laboratory and research skills. This includes understanding the appropriate use of experimental and measuring equipment and being able to draw conclusions from results obtained, as well as understanding the accuracy of those results to critically analyse the obtained data. You’ll then present those results in an appropriate fashion for different audiences. You will also have the opportunity to study a part of the Astrophysics course, by studying one of the lectures on either Stellar Structure or High Energy Astrophysics.

Year 3

You’ll have the opportunity to apply to spend a year studying abroad at one of our many partner institutions. Studying abroad is an invaluable opportunity to experience another culture, make new friends and build essential life skills that could transfer into your professional career. It’s important to note, study abroad places are not guaranteed.

Year 4

In your final year, your work will be closely linked to our current research, conducting your own research project. You’ll also have chance to choose from a range of specialist optional module topics.

Compulsory modules

Project (40 credits)

This is your chance to carry out an independent research project, under the supervision of the academic staff. You’ll prepare and plan out a programme of research (experimental/ computing/ theoretical/ education) or an extended review of the literature (dissertation) in physics or a related discipline and present your results. Throughout the project, you’ll develop and advance key skills in research, planning, report writing and presentation.

This is a wonderful opportunity to take part and contribute to the latest physics research and join one of our research groups. Some of our students even get to publish their research project in peer-reviewed journals.

Optional modules

You can choose up to four courses from the following core options:

Advanced Quantum Physics (20 credits)

You will study how quantum 'rules' work, and apply them to real situations. You will also use perturbation theory to study more complex, and non-linear, problems and understand how to study electron spins using Pauli matrices.

Quantum Matter (20 credits)

Study how the theory of phonons (lattice vibrations) can be used to study condensed matter and advanced semiconducting devices. Delve into the physics of nanoscale structures and introductory superconductivity.

Advanced Optics with Photonics (20 credits)

An introduction to basic photonics, leading into the study of optical anisotropy, non-linear optics and lasers, and find out how to manipulate materials using optical tweezers.

Magnetism and Ferroic Materials (20 credits)

Magnetic and ferroelectric materials underpin much of modern technology and thus our everyday lives, from electric motors and dynamos to energy and data storage, sensors and computing. This course will show you the physics underpinning these materials and systems.

Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics (20 credits)

Gain an understanding of our current models for theoretical particle physics, including the use of symmetry and relativistic quantum mechanics in the Standard Model, as well as how to calculate complex interactions using Feynman diagrams.

Advanced Mechanics (20 credits)

Study how Lagrangian and Hamiltonian methods can be applied to complex advanced mechanical problems, and why symmetry and conservation laws are so closely interlinked.

Molecular Simulation with Machine Learning: Theory and Practice (20 credits)

The module will provide an introduction to the theory and practical implementation of Monte Carlo and Molecular Dynamics simulations of materials, including biomolecules, and will also provide practical experience of using standard software packages to perform these simulations on high performance computing facilities.

Star and Planet Formation (20 credits)

You will study the physical processes underpinning the formation of stars and planets, learning how stars form, but also how exo-planets form around them.

Cosmology (20 credits)

Gain the fundamental knowledge for understanding the basis for both observational and theoretical cosmology, from the first 10-43 seconds through to the present day.

If you choose fewer than four of these then you may also choose instead one of:

Physics in Schools (20 credits)

Group Innovation Project (20 credits)

or:

One or two courses from options offered in Medical Physics, the School of Earth and Environment, Nuclear Operations from the School of Chemical and Process Engineering or the Philosophy of Modern Physics (the total allowed is equivalent to 20 credits).

Learning and teaching

We have an integrated approach to the teaching on our programmes, bringing together theoretical and practical learning that'll train you to become a physicist. You’ll be taught through several different teaching methods, including lectures, workshops, small-group tutorials, laboratory work, project work and computer-aided learning.

In the first two years, our teaching is delivered using interactive in-person lectures, small group tutorials and larger workshops, where you’ll develop your problem-solving skills. In your final year, the lecturer will usually support their own specialist material through a combination of lectures and workshops.

Experimental physics is an essential part of our teaching. It provides you with the opportunity to develop your verbal and written communication skills through performing experiments individually, and as part of a group. Computer programming is an integral part of physics, and during the first two years you'll be taught the programming skills that you need, using Python. Finally, every student will have a chance to engage in independent project work, to demonstrate your ability to apply the key skills learnt to a research topic.

All students are assigned a personal tutor. During year 1, your personal tutor will host your weekly tutorials, so you’ll really get to know them well, alongside a small group of other students, which really helps our students to settle into university study. Your personal tutor is there to offer advice, monitor your progress, and be your first point of contact throughout your years of study.

We also have a peer assisted learning scheme, where higher-year students meet weekly with first years to support their learning and help them to settle into university life.

There are many facilities that will support your studies including extensive computer clusters and study areas.

Summer internships

During your time at Leeds, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for a paid summer internship, giving you the chance to get involved in research projects to advance your professional skills in research and experimentation.

Want to find out more? Check out what our recent students got up to on their summer internships.

Taster lectures

Watch our taster lectures to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:

• Hierarchical biomechanics: approaches for understanding materials and mechanics across lengthscales
• Bringing soft matter physics to life

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

In this programme, we will utilise a variety of assessment methods, including written reports, open-book exams, online tests and presentations.

In your final year, the programme features a research project, which emphasises open-ended investigations and includes written and verbal presentations.

Additionally, the programme places emphasis on the development of teamwork skills, as they are becoming increasingly important in today's workplaces. Thus, group work opportunities are an integral part of the programme.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA including Physics and Mathematics.

Where an A Level science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A Level at the stated grade.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and International Project Qualification (IPQ): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers an A in the EPQ, IPQ or ASCC we may make an offer of AAB at A-level including A in Physics and Mathematics.

GCSE: English Language grade 4 (C) or higher, or an equivalent English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English instead of GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: ABB including physics and mathematics and a pass in the Access to Leeds scheme.

Foundation years

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. A Foundation Year is the first year of an extended degree. We’ve designed these courses for applicants whose backgrounds mean they are less likely to attend university and who don’t meet the typical entry requirements for an undergraduate degree.

We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without science and mathematics qualifications.

You could also study our Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc which is for applicants whose background is less represented at university.

On successful completion of your foundation year, you will be able to progress onto your chosen course.

Alternative Entry Scheme for Mature Students

If you are a mature applicant (over 21) and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and maths qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Further information on the support available for mature students can be found at https://www.leeds.ac.uk/mature-students.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any one component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £10,050

International: To be confirmed

The amount of tuition fees you pay is based on whether you are classified as a home (UK) or international student. Find out how we assess your fee status.   

Tuition fees for UK students 
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2026/27 are £9,790 and £10,050 for students starting in 2027/28.  

Subsequent years 
The UK government sets the maximum tuition fee caps that universities can charge UK students. This means your tuition fee in future academic years will reflect any changes set by the government.   

From 2028/29 onwards, tuition fees are likely to increase annually, at least in line with inflation, and may rise further if the government increases the fee cap.   

Tuition fees for international students 
The international fee applies for each year of full-time study and will remain the same for the duration of your course.    

Read more about tuition fees.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

Whilst there are no compulsory additional costs, it would be helpful to bring your own calculator. You’ll have access to all the recommended texts and a vast supply of books and academic journals from the university libraries.

You’ll also have access to the extensive IT facilities on campus including 24/7 computer clusters with everything you need to complete your work.

However, you may wish to purchase your own books and/or computer.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Scholarships are also available to help fund your degree. Find out more and check your eligibility below:

• Scholarships for International students
• Scholarships for UK students
• Your subject area may also offer scholarships

Applying

Apply to this course and check the deadline for applications through the UCAS website.

We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Admissions guidance

Read our admissions guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

What happens after you’ve applied

You can keep up to date with the progress of your application through UCAS.

UCAS will notify you when we make a decision on your application. If you receive an offer, you can inform us of your decision to accept or decline your place through UCAS.

How long will it take to receive a decision

We typically receive a high number of applications to our courses. For applications submitted by the January UCAS deadline, UCAS asks universities to make decisions by mid-May at the latest.

Offer holder days

If you receive an offer from us, you’ll be invited to an offer holder event. This event is more in-depth than an open day. It gives you the chance to learn more about your course and get your questions answered by academic staff and students. Plus, you can explore our campus, facilities and accommodation.

International applicants

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students.

We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Read about visas, immigration and other information here.

If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

School of Physics and Astronomy
School of Physics and Astronomy

Contact us

School of Physics and Astronomy Undergraduate Admissions Enquiries

Email: physics.admissions@leeds.ac.uk

Career opportunities

There are extensive employment opportunities in the field of physics across numerous industries, which is why physics graduates are in demand for some of the highest paid and most satisfying roles in employment.

Qualifying with a degree in physics from Leeds will set you up with the numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills and specialist subject knowledge needed to pursue an exciting career across a wide range of sectors, including:

• IT
• Engineering
• Finance (including Fintech)
• Medical Physics
• Patent Attorney
• Tech Consulting
• Aerospace
• Electronics
• Energy
• Teaching
• Environment
• Science Journalism
• Research

Throughout your course – especially in your final year research project – you'll have the chance to advance your knowledge and experience, whilst developing widely transferable skills desirable to employers including teamwork, independent research, analysis and communication.

Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our most recent physics graduates have obtained:

• Clinical Scientist, Christie Hospital NHS Trust
• Electronic Engineer, NASA
• IT Specialist, IBM
• Nuclear Engineer, Rolls Royce Submarines
• Physicist, AMEC
• Radiographer, NHS
• Research Scientist, National Physical Laboratory
• Robotics Systems Engineer, Dyson
• Science Teacher
• Scientific Officer, Met. Office
• Systems Engineer, Boeing
• Thermo-fluid Engineer, Rolls-Royce
• Astrophysicist, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Read our alumni profiles to find out more about where our students are working.

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources — including our award-winning Employability Team who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Employability events — we run a full range of events including careers fairs in specialist areas and across broader industries — all with employers who are actively recruiting for roles.
• MyCareer system — on your course and after you graduate, you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
• Qualified careers consultants — gain guidance, support and information to help you choose a career path. You’ll have access to 1-2-1 meetings and events to learn how to find employers to target, write your CV and cover letter, research before interviews and brush up on your interview skills.
• Opportunities at Leeds — there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

We’re also an active partner in the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy, where we hold the UK’s largest annual Physics Careers Fair, with employers looking exclusively for physicists.

Explore more about your employability opportunities at the University of Leeds.

You'll also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.

Study abroad

This programme gives you the opportunity to undertake a study abroad year as part of the course. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.

You’ll have the chance to explore a new country, learn in a different environment and immerse yourself in another culture. The experience will allow you to become adaptable to new environments – and really build those essential life skills that you’ll take with you after you graduate.

It’s important to note, study abroad places are not guaranteed for some countries as this opportunity is popular. Destinations may also change each year.

Our Study Abroad team will help you with every step of the application process. They’ll support you in researching the placement best suited to you and be there to answer any questions you may have, offering guidance throughout the process, too.

Benefits of a study abroad year:

• 300 destinations to choose from worldwide
• Build professional and personal transferable skills for your career
• Gain first-hand experience of learning in a different environment
• Improve your employability

Find out more about study abroad.

Work placement

This degree does not offer a work placement option. However, the Physics (Industrial) BSc degree does have this option.