Physics BSc Honours
Newcastle University Undergraduate programs
Key Information
Campus location
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
3 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
GBP 26,400 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* international students; GBP 9,250 - home students
Introduction
From sub-atomic particles to the large-scale structure of the universe, this BSc Physics degree opens up new worlds and new career possibilities.
Our three-year Physics degree provides a strong understanding of the fundamental pillars of physics and a thorough grounding in advanced mathematics. Guided by our world-leading academics, you'll study cutting-edge physics modules in relativity, cosmology, and electromagnetism, preparing you to contribute to the technological advances of modern society.
Hands-on experience in our high-spec facilities will develop your practical skills for a wide range of physical science careers.
You'll explore physics in the natural universe, including astrophysics, quantum mechanics, and particle physics, as well as the physics that underpins emerging technologies.
Professional accreditation and recognition
Institute of Physics
This degree is professionally accredited by the Institute of Physics.
Work placement
Get career ready with work placement and leave as a confident professional in your field. You can apply to spend 9 to 12 months working in any organisation in the world, and receive University support from our dedicated team to secure your dream placement. Work placements take place between stages 2 and 3.
You'll gain first-hand experience working in the sector, putting your learning into practice and developing your professional expertise.
If you choose to take a work placement, it will extend your degree by a year. Your degree title will show you have achieved the placement year. Placements are subject to availability.
Rankings
- 19th in the UK – The Complete University Guide 2023 (Physics category)
- Global Top 125 University - QS World University Rankings 2023
- 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- 42% of our research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- 1st in the UK and 8th in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2022
- Global Top 140 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023
Curriculum
Stage 1
You'll cover topics in classical dynamics; quantum mechanics including quantum tunnelling; astrophysics including exoplanets; mathematical methods and problem-solving; electromagnetism; states of matter and materials; vibrations, waves and AC circuits; and laboratory physics.
Compulsory Modules
- Dynamics 10
- Introductory Astrophysics 10
- Introductory Electromagnetism 10
- Introductory Quantum Mechanics 10
- Multivariate Calculus and Differential Equations 10
- Laboratory Physics 1 20
- Introduction to Calculus 20
- Vibrations, Waves, AC Theory & Introduction to Solid State Materials 20
- Introductory Algebra 10
Stage 2
You'll build on your knowledge of core concepts, including quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. You'll study modules in thermodynamics; semiconductor devices; optics; materials and solid-state physics; statistical mechanics; vector calculus; differential equations; and laboratory physics.
Compulsory Modules
- Principles of Quantum Mechanics 10
- Principles of Materials and Solid-State Physics 10
- Laboratory and Professional Skills in Physics 20
- Introduction to Observational Astronomy 10
- Vector Calculus & Differential Equations, Transforms & Waves 20
- Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics 20
- Optics & Principles of Electromagnetism 20
- Scientific Computation with Python 10
Stage 3
You'll study core subjects to an advanced level, including quantum mechanics; and materials and solid-state physics. Optional modules in topics such as advanced astrophysics; electromagnetism; and fluid dynamics allow you to specialise in areas of interest to you.
Compulsory Modules
- Relativity 10
- Advanced Materials and Solid-State Physics 10
- Group Project 10
- Project 20
- Advanced Quantum & Atoms, Molecules, Nuclei & Particles 20
- Advanced Characterisation Methods 10
- Optional Modules Credits
- Geohazards and Deformation of the Earth 10
- Fluid Dynamics 10
- Variational Methods and Lagrangian Dynamics 10
- Advanced Electromagnetism 10
- Advanced Astronomy 10
- Partial Differential Equations 10
- Photonics 10
- Stellar Structure and Evolution 10
- Cosmology 10
- Radiative Transfer and High Energy Astrophysics 10
- Mathematical Biology 10
Career Opportunities
We have research links with the following companies and external organisations:
- Littelfuse
- the De Beers Group
- DEFRA
- STFC
- NASA
- LOFAR
- intel
- CPI
Graduating with a degree in physics
Physics graduates report earning average salaries close to £27,000 on graduation.
Possible career paths for physics graduates include:
- engineering
- medicine
- finance
- nanotechnology
- oil, gas and renewable energy
- telecommunications
You'll gain transferable skills that are highly valued by employers such as problem-solving, analytical, mathematical, communication, presentation, teamwork and computing skills.
Further study, including postgraduate courses for secondary school teaching and PhD courses, are further options available to physics graduates.
Employability at Newcastle
96% of Newcastle University graduates progressed to employment or further study within six months of graduating, with 85.5% in graduate-level employment or further study.
Admissions
Gallery
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the University website for more information.
Program Outcome
Further study, including postgraduate courses for secondary school teaching and PhD courses, are further options available to physics graduates.
Program Tuition Fee
Program delivery
You'll be taught via a range of approaches, including:
- lectures and seminars
- small group tutorials
- problem classes
- laboratory sessions
- practical computing sessions
You will have 45 hours of practical sessions per year for the first two years in our laboratories where you'll take part in experiments and project work.