Physics with Artificial Intelligence MPhys, 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 a physics degree at Leeds gives you the opportunity to delve into the fundamental laws of nature, building a solid foundation in core physics topics alongside experience in conducting your own project work based on current research areas – including a collaborative research project in your final year. Throughout your degree, you’ll have access to excellent facilities right here on campus, including laboratories and teaching spaces in the Sir William Henry Bragg Building.

This course is also highly flexible, with a range of optional and discovery modules to choose from so you can tailor the course to what interests you the most. Our close industry links and innovative research activity ensure our physics courses reflect the latest advancements and applications of the subject. You'll graduate with the specialist knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to launch a successful career in this highly valued profession, with a wide range of career options available to you.

Physics with AI: Shaping the Future of Science

Now, with the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the way we explore and innovate in physics is evolving faster than ever before.

At Leeds, we’re facing these innovations head on with this course.

This programme uniquely integrates core physics principles with cutting-edge AI and machine learning, equipping you with all the tools you’ll need to revolutionise this field.

Why study at Leeds:

• Our School’s globally-renowned research in quantum computing, theoretical astrophysics, and experimental physics will play a pivotal role in shaping this programme, ensuring that you’re learning the latest groundbreaking research at the intersection of physics and AI.
• Career Prospects: graduate with the relevant skills for careers in diverse fields, including data science and AI development, computational physics and scientific research, aerospace, telecommunications and energy industries, quantum technologies and materials science, finance and risk modelling.
• Access specialist facilities including laboratories and teaching spaces right here on campus.
• Get hands-on experience and put theory into practice through exciting project work.
• Broaden your experience before you graduate and enhance your career prospects with our study abroad programmes and industrial work placement opportunities.

Benefits of an integrated Masters

Learn more about what an integrated Masters is and how it can benefit your studies and boost your career.

View this video on Bilibili.

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 your 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.

We take a competency-based approach to assessment, to enable you to demonstrate your skills and knowledge across a range of activities.

Advanced AI techniques are integrated throughout giving you the tools to tackle complex scientific challenges through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application.

By combining a deep understanding of physics with cutting-edge AI expertise, this programme equips graduates with the interdisciplinary skills to excel in scientific research, industry, and emerging fields where AI and physics intersect.

From analysing vast datasets to enhancing simulations and automating experiments, AI transforms how physicists model, predict and interpret physical phenomena. You'll explore how machine learning and neural networks accelerate discoveries in quantum mechanics, astrophysics, and material science while improving the accuracy and efficiency of computational models.

AI also revolutionises data analysis in modern physics, enabling researchers to sift through massive datasets from large-scale experiments such as those at CERN or astronomical observatories. By applying AI techniques, you’ll develop the skills to identify anomalies, refine theoretical models, and extract valuable insights from complex data. Additionally, AI enhances experimental design by automating processes and optimising setups, allowing physicists to focus on analysis and innovation.

The course also explores the exciting intersection of AI and quantum computing, where AI can optimize quantum algorithms and quantum-inspired techniques can improve AI efficiency. This synergy opens new frontiers in cryptography, materials science, and fundamental particle research.

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

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Physics with Artificial Intelligence MPhys, 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.

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 compulsory modules

Mechanics, Relativity and Astrophysics – 20 credits

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 – 20 credits

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 – 20 credits

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 – 20 credits

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 – 20 credits

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. 

Applications of Artificial Intelligence – 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.

Optional modules

You’ll choose one of the following optional modules.

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

Introduction into Python for Machine Learning – 10 credits

Gain the foundations to understand and use one of the most popular programming languages used in Machine Learning/AI. Throughout the module, you’ll develop a good understanding of how Python works and be able to use it to write a program that can solve scientific problems. You may cover topics such as control structures, data types and data structures to implementing machine learning algorithms and importing and using libraries. You’ll also learn how to access data from the web or databases and graphically display that data.

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.

Year 2 compulsory modules

Quantum Mechanics – 20 credits

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 – 20 credits

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 – 20 credits

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 – 20 credits

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.

Machine Learning Fundamentals with Applications in Science and Engineering – 20 credits

We'll introduce basic techniques from statistical machine learning for classification and regression using Python. Throughout the module, you may cover areas like loss functions, optimisation, gradient decent, linear regression, logistic regression, support vector machines, decision trees, Bayesian learning and basic neural networks. You could also learn how to assess the error of a fitted model and explain the fitting algorithm. You’ll also use software packages to perform classification and regression tasks, as well as carrying out a simple statistical model analysis of data in science and engineering.

Experimental Skills for Physics with Artificial Intelligence – 20 credits

This module further develops key computational experimental and research skills. This includes understanding the appropriate use of experimental and measuring equipment and computational techniques, being able to draw conclusions from results obtained as well as understand the accuracy of those results to critically analyse the obtained data, as well as presenting those results in an appropriate fashion for different audiences.

Year 3

In your third 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

Advanced Topics in Physics – 40 credits

Develop a broad knowledge, understanding and application of core areas in advanced physics and be able to solve unseen, problem-led questions in these areas. You’ll study options drawn from advanced quantum mechanics, condensed matter, bionanophysics, advanced classical mechanics, optics and star and planet formation.

Deep Learning Fundamentals with Applications in Science and Engineering – 20 credits

The module introduces the field of deep learning, giving you the practical skills and expertise to use neural networks to solve problems in science and engineering. Throughout this module, you may cover areas such as cover perceptron in Python, using Tensorflow/PyTorch, computation graphs, multilayer neural networks, using GPU’s, hyperparameter tuning and convolutional neural networks. Once you’ve finished the module, you’ll understand fundamental concepts and methods of deep learning – and its current limitations. You’ll also be able to critically evaluate systems using standard performance metrics and apply your learned knowledge to solve real-world scientific or engineering problems.

Advanced Techniques in Physics – 40 credits

This module offers students the opportunity to solve problems in physics through a series of short, focused projects. You’ll be given projects that will cover diverse challenges such as using machine learning to analyse experimental data, optimising simulations of physical systems and developing AI models to identify patterns in complex datasets. Projects may explore areas like quantum mechanics, astrophysics and materials science, providing hands-on experience with AI tools and computational methods. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, problem-solving and effective communication of results, equipping you with both technical expertise and the ability to apply AI in innovative ways across various branches of physics.

Optional modules

As we're currently reviewing the curriculum, specific optional modules have not been confirmed for 2026 entry. The topics listed below are indicative of typical options we currently offer within the School, but some of these options may not be available or may be subject to change, and other options may be offered in their place.

Topic examples:

• Cosmology

• Theoretical Particle Physics

• Quantum Photonics

• Magnetism in Condensed Matter

• Molecular Simulation: Theory and Practice

Year 4

In your final year, you’ll have a range of research-led topics to study at an advanced level. In addition, you will undertake a research project, which allows you to follow your interests and investigate an area at the cutting edge of physics, as well as further develop transferable skills such as communication and time management. You’ll work collaboratively with your supervisors throughout the project, who’ll be experts in your particular research area.

Compulsory modules

Integrated Masters Research Project – 60 credits

In this final-year project, you’ll apply your knowledge of physics to conduct an original research on a topic of your choice. You'll undertake projects that address a significant research challenge, integrating advanced computational techniques with physical principles. Projects may involve using machine learning to analyse data from a broad range of physics area, applying AI models to enhance simulations in quantum mechanics and astrophysics. You’ll develop and refine your technical, analytical and research skills, while gaining hands-on experience with AI tools and methodologies. This project gives you the chance to build skills in independent problem solving, critical thinking and the ability to apply AI in innovative ways to advance understanding in various areas of physics.

Advanced topics of AI – 15 credits

This module introduces advanced topics of AI such as handling of sequential data, Recurrent neural networks, graph neural networks, the transformer architecture, self-attention and large language models, combination of multiple input modalities (images, text, structured data). Examples will be drawn from simple studies in science and engineering.

Optional modules

Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options and some of these options may not be available, depending on other modules you have selected already.

Soft Matter Physics: Liquid Crystals – 15 credits

Soft matter physics and liquid crystals are important states of matter that have an intermediate order between the liquid and crystal solids. They are relevant to many aspects of science and technology, from display devices to biological. This module will provide you with the background physics behind the principal liquid crystal phases.

Quantum Field Theory – 15 credits

Learn how to explain and apply to simple problems all the basic principles, building blocks, tools and concepts of QFT.

Winds, Bubbles and Explosions – 15 credits

Massive stars inject radiative and mechanical energy into the interstellar medium via their intense photon fluxes, powerful winds, and SN explosions. This “feedback” is at least partially responsible for dispersing the molecular gas from massive star-forming regions. On larger scales, the energy injected from groups of massive stars powers galactic fountains and superwinds. This module covers the theory behind these processes and the necessary background to understand them.

Advanced Bionanophysics Research – 15 credits

Learn about and discuss current research topics in experimental bionanophysics. The module will have a strong emphasis on the emerging applications of bionanophysics and the development of new tools and technologies for biomedical and biomaterials applications.

Quantum Information Science and Technology – 15 credits

On completion of this module, you should be able to describe the applications and limitations of classical information theory and the processes of quantum communications. You’ll be able to solve numerical examples of problems in transmission of quantum information through noisy channels and explain, quantitatively, the fundamental processes of quantum entanglement. You'll also be able to describe the application of quantum measurements and entanglement to quantum key distribution and quantum metrology and appreciate the hardware and algorithmic requirements for quantum computation.

Current Research Topics in Physics – 15 credits

Attend research seminars given by internal and external speakers across a wide range of physics topics. This will allow you to critically analyse these results, applying your physics knowledge. You’ll also research and write about current research in physics using relevant online resources.

Physics of Biological Systems – 15 credits

This module illustrates through a set of examples at the forefront of the discipline how concepts from physics help understand how biological systems function. The range of systems sizes covered spans from molecules and their nanoscale assemblies to cells and tissues. These will be introduced at a level necessary to reveal salient physical phenomena at play and you’ll explore experimental techniques to analyse their physical properties. The physics of the systems will be treated quantitatively making use of mathematical techniques and physics concepts acquired in foundational physics courses.

Exoplanetary Systems – 15 credits

Explore observational techniques in the detection of exoplanets, the physics of exoplanet atmospheres and planet formation, and the principles of habitability. You’ll be taught the underlying theories and techniques and then work through several examples, learning how to apply the taught concepts to solve problems in this area.

Quantum Many-Body Physics – 15 credits

Build foundational knowledge in quantum many-body systems, based on the mathematical formalism of second quantisation and the ideas from quantum information such as entanglement. The module will take you to the cutting edge of research into quantum many-body systems, highlighting their fundamental role in condensed matter and high-energy physics, but also their promising applications in quantum computing.

Soft Matter Physics: Polymers, Colloids and Glasses – 15 credits

You'll explore and develop your understanding of the structure of polymers, dynamics and viscoelasticity of polymer melts and solutions, glass-formation in soft matter, colloids and colloidal interactions and phase separation in soft matter.

General Relativity – 15 credits

Learn how to utilise techniques appropriate to differential geometry for familiar problems from Special Relativity before moving on to the study of how these methods can be used to derive the optimal means of studying particle dynamics in a curved space-time, and how physical laws can be translated into the same framework. The module will conclude with a study of applications of general relativity including cosmology and black holes.

Superconductivity – 15 credits

Explore the phenomenological properties and theories of superconductivity, including the principal features of superconducting tunnel junctions and contacts. You’ll also build an understanding of superconductivity using appropriate mathematical tools.

Advanced Physics in Schools – 15 credits

Build your experience in teaching, whilst also using a critical eye to write a literature review of current issues in physics teaching. You’ll then deliver a presentation, with demonstration, to showcase a research topic adapted for teaching purposes.

Group Innovation Project in Sustainability – 15 credits

Learn about the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, working in a team to develop a business plan around an idea for an enterprise based on current scientific research that will address these goals. The module will lead you through the various stages of setting up a new enterprise, from the inception and development of the idea itself, through preparation of a business plan and pitch to potential investors. Throughout the module, you’ll further develop your skills in teamwork, project and time management, commercial awareness and self-reflection while providing valuable insight into the commercial side of science.

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 undertake a one-year work placement or study abroad for a year, choosing from a selection of universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.

Summer internships

As a student in our Faculty, you’ll have the unique opportunity to do a paid summer internship. It’s your chance to get involved in the real-world research projects happening in and around the University – and advance your own professional skills in research and experimentation.

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

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.

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

In years 3 and 4, the programme features a mandatory course on advanced techniques, which emphasises open-ended investigations and includes written and verbal presentations in the third year, and a research project with a written report, presentation and viva in the fourth year.

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), 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

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.

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: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
The fee for UK undergraduate students is decided by the Government and may vary if policy changes. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 will be £9,535.

The tuition fee for the following programmes with an integrated foundation year is £5,760 for the foundation year, and £9,535 for subsequent years of study:
•    Business Studies with Foundation Year BSC
•    Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year BA
•    Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA
•    Social Science (foundation year) BA
 

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2025/26 are available on individual course pages.
 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

The UK Government’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) operates a scheme called the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS). If you are an international (non-EU/EEA or Swiss citizen) applicant and require a student visa to study in the UK then you will need an ATAS certificate to study this course at the University of Leeds.

To apply for an ATAS certificate online, you will need your programme details and the relevant Common Aggregation Hierarchy (CAH) code and descriptor. For this course, the CAH code is: CAH07-01-01 and the descriptor is: Physics.

More information and details on how to apply for your ATAS certificate can be found at GOV.UK.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

School of Physics and Astronomy

Contact us

Email:
Telephone:

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.

Plus, University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2024, High Fliers Research, meaning our graduates are highly sought after by some of the most reputable companies in the field.

The skills and knowledge you’ll develop on this programme in both AI and chemistry will equip you with these industrially-relevant expertise, and will provide career opportunities in a variety of roles across a wide range of sectors, including:

• Data science and AI development

• Computational physics and scientific research

• Aerospace, telecommunications, and energy industries

• Quantum technologies and materials science

• Finance and risk modelling

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 and work placements

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. 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. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

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.

This programme offers you the option to spend time abroad as an extra academic year and will extend your studies by 12 months.

Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you'll 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

Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

A placement year is a great way to help you decide on a career path when you graduate. You’ll develop your skills and gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector. It will also help you to stand out in a competitive graduate jobs market 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
• 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'll 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 Industrial placements.