Physics BSc
- Duration
- 3 Years (Full time)
- Typical A-level offer
- AAB
- UCAS code
- F300
Physics with Astrophysics MPhys, BSc
Year of entry 2023
- UCAS code
- F3FM
- Start date
- September 2023
- Delivery type
- On campus
- Duration
- 4 years full time
- Work placement
- Optional
- Study abroad
- Optional
- Typical A-level offer
- AAB (specific subject requirements)
- Typical Access to Leeds offer
- BBB
Full entry requirements - Accredited
- Yes
- Contact
- physics.admissions@leeds.ac.uk
Course overview
Physics is the most fundamental of all sciences, delving into the way the universe works to provide technological advances that have innovated the world – especially in astrophysics.
From the discovery of planets around other stars to the most distant galaxies, astrophysics explores the wonders of the universe and plays a pioneering role in understanding the world we live in – and what lies beyond. The fields of physics and astrophysics are constantly evolving, with new inventions and discoveries happening every day, which is why these are still such highly sought after and relevant disciplines today.
Studying physics with astrophysics at Leeds will enable you to observe and explore the physical laws and principles that govern the nature of the universe, whilst getting involved in real ongoing research alongside expert academics and researchers at the forefront of the industry.
You’ll also have access to world-leading research and specialist facilities right here on campus. As a physics student, you’ll be taught in our brand new purpose-built engineering and physical sciences hub – the Sir William Henry Bragg Building. Here you’ll have access to first-class laboratories, specialised teaching spaces and the University of Leeds observatory, complete with state-of-the-art telescopes. It’s also home to the Bragg Centre where scientists and engineers work collaboratively to develop solutions for economical, societal and technical challenges in the UK.
Here at Leeds, we understand the importance this industry has in everyday life, which is why our courses are professionally accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), meaning the topics you’ll study reflect the latest developments in physics and astrophysics. This will equip you with the key knowledge, skills and experience you need to begin your career in this highly valued profession.
Why study at Leeds:
- Take advantage of the School’s world-leading research, which shapes our courses across a wide range of areas – including astrophysics – and delivers impactful and innovative R&D projects.
- Learn how to image objects in the night sky with access to our optical telescopes, located on the School’s roof.
- Experience expertise teaching delivered by a programme team made up of academics and researchers at the forefront of the industry who specialise in a variety of physics disciplines needed to teach you modern astrophysics.
- Study in the Sir William Henry Bragg building – a brand-new development with excellent facilities and teaching spaces for an outstanding student experience.
- Put theory into practice, with access to our specialist facilities and laboratories used by our academics and leading researchers that are fully equipped with the latest technology and research-grade equipment to support your learning.
- Broaden your experience before you graduate and enhance your career prospects with our study abroad programmes and paid industrial work placement opportunities.
- Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining AstroSoc where you can meet fellow star enthusiasts, enjoy regular stargazing sessions, go on trips and gain fascinating insight from industry professionals at regular talks and networking events throughout your degree.
Accreditation
Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the profession for which it prepares its students. This course is professionally accredited by the Institute of Physics, meaning you’ll have the qualifications and skills you’ll need to succeed in industry upon graduation.
Your accredited degree guarantees you eligibility for IOP membership, whilst satisfying the academic requirements needed to follow the route to professional registration as a registered scientist (RSci) or chartered physicist (CPhys).
If you graduate with an accredited integrated four-year Masters (MPhys, BSc) degree, you will have fulfilled all the educational requirements to qualify as a CPhys.
Course details
On this course, you’ll develop a thorough knowledge of core physics, from thermodynamics to quantum physics. You’ll also study a broad range of astrophysics topics from your very first week, such as star and planet formation, stellar structure and evolution, and cosmology.
Discovery modules are available in years one and two of your degree, as long as you are taking enough credits of your own subject for that year.
Year 1
During your studies, you’ll use a fantastic array of multi-wavelength images from the world’s telescopes, while at the same time learning core physics, mathematics and computing alongside students on our other physics programmes. Core physics topics include mechanics, quantum physics, relativity, vibrations and waves, thermal physics, electromagnetism and solid state physics.
Year 2
In the second year, you’ll really get to grips with the physical and mathematical descriptions of what makes stars tick and, in the end, explode. You’ll also learn about the most energetic and enigmatic phenomena in the Universe. As part of your laboratory modules, you’ll choose an object to observe, and use the School’s own observatory to produce a colour image using our state-of-the-art equipment.
Year 3
The astrophysics modules in year 3 cover the exciting topics of star and planet formation, and cosmology and the evolution of the Universe, whilst the final year of the MPhys takes students to the edge of current knowledge in astrophysics. You’ll get the chance to use a 30m radio telescope during a field trip to Cornwall. A wide range of optional modules in the second half of your course allow you to broaden your studies, such as Cardiovascular Medical Imaging, Photonics, and Soft Matter Physics: Liquid Crystals.
Year 4 (MPhys)
You’ll undertake an astrophysics project during your final year. For this project, you’ll join an astrophysics research team and work on, for example, the analysis of data from world-leading telescopes, mathematical modelling of shocks and explosions, or simulation of multi-wavelength data. Many of our project students get their work published as part of the School’s research.
One-year optional work placement or study abroad
During your course, you’ll be given the opportunity to advance your skill set and experience further. You can apply to either work in a paid industrial placement or join one of our study abroad programmes, spanning across many universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.
Project work
Throughout your degree, you’ll get hands-on experience through project work. This gives you the opportunity to explore your subject further as well as developing valuable skills in problem solving, communication and teamwork.
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.
Year 1 compulsory modules
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Year One Physics Tutorials | 5 |
| Introduction to Experimental Physics | 20 |
| Stars and Galaxies | 10 |
| Physics 1- Fundamental Forces | 25 |
| Physics 2- Properties of Matter | 25 |
| Computing 1- Fundamentals of Programming | 10 |
| Maths 1- Scalars and Vectors | 10 |
| Maths 2- Multivariable Calculus | 10 |
Year 1 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Planets and the Search for Life | 10 |
| Introduction to Nanotechnology | 10 |
| Atmosphere | 10 |
| Weather | 10 |
| Water | 10 |
Year 1 discovery modules
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Introductory Linear Algebra | 10 |
Year 2 compulsory modules
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| High Energy Astrophysics | 10 |
| Stellar Structure and Evolution | 10 |
| Physics 3- Fields and Energy | 25 |
| Physics 4- Quantum Phenomena | 25 |
| Computing 2- Computational Physics | 10 |
| Maths 3- Matrices and Operators | 10 |
Year 2 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Experimental Physics | 30 |
| Experimental Physics (for Astrophysics) | 20 |
| Maths 4- Transforms and Partial Differential Equations | 10 |
Year 3 compulsory modules
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Advanced Techniques in Astrophysics | 30 |
| Cosmology | 15 |
| Star and Planet Formation | 15 |
Year 3 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Nuclear Operations | 20 |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging | 10 |
| Radionuclide Imaging | 10 |
| Medical X-ray imaging | 10 |
| X-ray Computed Tomography | 10 |
| Introduction to Philosophy of Modern Physics | 10 |
| Philosophy of Modern Physics | 20 |
| Photonics | 15 |
| Group Industrial Project | 15 |
| Molecular Simulation: Theory and Practice | 15 |
| Advanced Quantum Physics | 15 |
| Quantum Photonics | 15 |
| Quantum Matter | 15 |
| Magnetism in Condensed Matter | 15 |
| Professional Skills in Physics | 5 |
| Advanced Mechanics | 15 |
| Bionanophysics | 15 |
| Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics | 15 |
| Physics in Schools | 15 |
| Physics into Work | 15 |
| Earth Observations from Space | 10 |
| Atmosphere and Ocean Climate Change Processes | 10 |
Year 4 compulsory modules
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Research Project | 60 |
| Winds, Bubbles and Explosions | 15 |
Year 4 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Soft Matter Physics: Liquid Crystals | 15 |
| Quantum Many-Body Physics | 15 |
| Advanced Bionanophysics Research | 15 |
| Advanced Group Industrial Project | 15 |
| Superconductivity | 15 |
| Soft Matter Physics: Polymers, Colloids and Glasses | 15 |
| Quantum Transport in Nanostructures | 15 |
| Quantum Field Theory | 15 |
| General Relativity | 15 |
| Quantum Information Science and Technology | 15 |
| Current Research Topics in Physics | 15 |
| Advanced Physics in Schools | 15 |
| Physics of Biological Systems | 15 |
Discovery modules
Throughout your degree you will benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.
This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.
Learning and teaching
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, the material you learn in lectures is supported by a mixture of small group tutorials and larger weekly workshops, where lecturers work with a team to improve your practical problem-solving skills. In later years, the lecturer will usually support their own specialist material through bi-weekly workshops.
Laboratory classes are an integral part of our teaching throughout your time at Leeds. They provide you with the opportunity to develop your verbal and written communication skills through performing experiments individually, or as part of a group. You may also have the opportunity to undertake a short course on data analysis and statistics and learn how to conduct practical experiments in preparation for your final year research project.
All students are assigned a personal tutor. Your personal tutor is there to offer advice, monitor your progress, and be your first point of contact throughout your years of study.
There are many facilities that will support your studies including extensive computer clusters. The School itself provides additional computing and study areas.
The Edward Boyle Science and Engineering Library is only a short walk from the School of Physics and Astronomy and has multiple copies of the recommended books. It also has a variety of different studying environments, such as personal and flexible group work areas.
Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for the School, your programme and modules.
You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.
Watch our taster lectures to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:
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
You are assessed primarily through formal exams. Other methods include practical work, MCQs, oral presentations, written reports and tutorial work. The variety of assessment allows you to develop a broad range of skills and demonstrate a variety of talents.
Entry requirements
A-level: AAB including Physics and Mathematics.
Excludes A Level General Studies and Critical Thinking.
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), International Project Qualification (IPQ) and Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (ASCC): 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 ABB at A-Level.
GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.
Alternative qualification
Access to HE Diploma
Overall pass of the Access to HE, with 45 credits at level 3. Of these 45 credits, 30 level 3 credits must be in Physics and Mathematics and must be passed with Distinction.
BTEC
BTEC qualifications in relevant disciplines are considered in combination with A Level Physics and Mathematics. Applicants should contact the School to discuss.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 M1 M2 to include Physics and Mathematics.
International Baccalaureate
35 points overall with 15 points at Higher Level to include 5 in Higher Level Physics and 5 in Higher Level Mathematics.
Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
H2, H2, H2, H3, H3, H3 including H2 in both Physics and Mathematics.
Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
AB at Advanced Higher in Physics and Mathematics with AABBB at Higher.
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 an alternative 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.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative admissions.
Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: BBB including physics and mathematics. Excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking.
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. We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.
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: £9,250 (per year)
International: £27,500 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2022/23
For UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2022/23 the fee will be £9,250. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the government and may vary if policy changes.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students for 2023/24 have been agreed by the UK Government and will remain at the current fee level of £9,250. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the government and may vary if policy changes.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 should be available on individual course pages from September 2022.
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.
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 about additional costs.
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.
Applying
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on 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.
Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Applicant days
If you receive an offer to study with us, we’ll invite you to attend one of our applicant days. You’ll have the opportunity to meet our academic staff and students, explore the School and University and find out more about your course and what it’s like to be a student at Leeds.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2023
This course is taught by
School of Physics and Astronomy
Contact us
School of Physics and Astronomy Undergraduate Admissions Enquiries
Email: physics.admissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:
Career opportunities
The employment opportunities in the field of physics are extensive across numerous industries, which is why physics graduates are in demand for some of the highest paid and most satisfying roles in employment.
The physics programmes here at Leeds have also been professionally accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and University of Leeds students are among the top five most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2022, High Fliers Research, meaning our graduates are highly sought after by some of the most reputable companies in the field.
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:
- Aerospace
- Electronics
- Energy
- Environment
- Transport
- IT
- Finance
The final year research project is another fantastic opportunity 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 chemical engineering graduates have obtained:
- Astrophysicist, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
- Clinical Scientist, Christie Hospital NHS Trust
- Electronic Engineer, NASA
- IT Specialist, IBM
- Nuclear Engineer, Rolls Royce Submarines
- Nuclear Independent Oversight Inspector, Sellafield Limited
- 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
Careers support
At Leeds we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We will help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.
You will be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.
You will also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.
From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, we have many University partners worldwide you can apply to, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.
Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you will be awarded the ‘international’ variant in your degree title which demonstrates your added experience to future employers.
Find out more about study abroad.
Work placements
The graduate recruitment market is highly competitive so it’s important that you stand out. An industrial placement could be the opportunity you need to impress potential employers and improve your chances of securing the career you want.
Benefits of a work placement year:
- 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
- All placements are salaried
- Build industry contacts within your chosen field
- Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
- Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
- Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
- Improve your employability
If you decide to undertake a placement year, this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you will be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.
With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.
Here are some examples of placements our students have recently completed:
- RF, IT, Secure Networks & Communications 2021 Year in Industry, QinetiQ
- Industrial Placement - Technology Network Engineering, Vodafone Limited
- Pricing and Supply Chain Analyst, Solidigm
- QA Engineer, Elder Studios Ltd
- Software Engineer, Renishaw
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.