UCAS code F300
Physics BSc (Hons) will guide you to becoming independent thinkers capable of applying physical reasoning to unfamiliar problems. As a graduate of the course, you will be able to analyse physical systems using theoretical, experimental and computational approaches. You will learn to design and conduct investigations, interpret complex datasets, and clearly communicate scientific conclusions.
Physics is the most fundamental of the sciences.
New concepts, such as quantum mechanics and relativity, are introduced at degree level in order to understand nature at the deepest level. These theories have profound philosophical implications because they challenge our view of the everyday world. At the same time they have a huge impact on society since they underpin the technological revolution.
While studying one of the most intellectually satisfying disciplines, you will acquire transferable skills including numeracy, problem solving and an ability to reason clearly and communicate well.
Physics degrees are highly prized in the flexible labour market of today and our graduates have excellent career opportunities in academic research, industrial research and development, teaching, computing, business and finance.
Our programmes are accredited by the Institute of Physics, which means they satisfy the academic requirements for Chartered Physicist status.
This programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics, which means it satisfies the academic requirements for Chartered Physicist status. The Institute of Physics is the professional body for physics in the UK and Ireland.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
All year-one modules are compulsory
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
In year two, you must take 120 credits, including 15 credits from the optional modules.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE PHYSICS (PHYS201) | 15 |
| CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS (PHYS202) | 15 |
| ELECTROMAGNETISM I (PHYS203) | 15 |
| QUANTUM AND ATOMIC PHYSICS I (PHYS204) | 15 |
| MATHEMATICS FOR PHYSICISTS III (PHYS207) | 15 |
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MATHEMATICS FOR PHYSICISTS IV (PHYS208) | 15 |
| ACCELERATORS AND RADIOISOTOPES (PHYS246) | 15 |
| STELLAR PHYSICS (PHYS251) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
In year three, in addition to the compulsory modules, you will choose one 15-credit module in semester one and one 15-credit module in semester two.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| ELECTROMAGNETISM II (PHYS303) | 15 |
| QUANTUM AND ATOMIC PHYSICS II (PHYS304) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
Our research-led teaching ensures you are taught the latest advances in cutting-edge physics research.
Teaching combines lectures and workshops, while laboratory sessions and computational activities play a central role in our programmes.
You will be working in tutorials and problem-solving workshops, which are another crucial element in the learning process, where you put your knowledge into practice.
Modules are assessed through a combination of examinations and coursework.
Depending on the modules taken, you may encounter project work, presentations (individual or group), and specific tests or tasks focused on solidifying learning outcomes.
In the final year, students undertake a substantial research project equivalent to a major scientific investigation. This project requires students to plan and conduct independent research, engage critically with the scientific literature and communicate their findings through a dissertation and presentation.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide.
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.
Broaden your world by spending an additional year of study at a partner university abroad following your second year of study.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
This course is also available as a four year MPhys (Hons) programme.
This course is delivered by the School of Physical Sciences, one of the UK’s leading physics departments, with a history of discovery that goes back over 130 years. Day-to-day teaching takes place in our £23 million award-winning, state-of-the-art Central Teaching Laboratories, which have transformed the way in which physical sciences are taught at the University.
Find out a little bit more about Physics at Liverpool.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
Physics gives you a chance to explain how the world works, from the tiny, atomic scale to the large. I've enjoyed the practicals, getting to grips with handling the equipment and the scientific methods. I’ve developed a lot of skills that I will apply throughout my life.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Third year student, Cara, gives her views on what its like studying Physics at Liverpool.
A physics degree is a great starting point for a physics-related career, engineering and computing careers.
Graduates of this course develop advanced analytical, quantitative and research skills that are highly valued across a wide range of professional sectors.
Throughout the programme, students gain experience in experimental investigation, computational modelling, advanced data analysis and scientific communication. They also develop the ability to address open-ended problems systematically and to evaluate complex evidence critically.
Engagement with research literature and investigative projects gives students insight into how new scientific knowledge is generated and how physicists contribute to addressing fundamental scientific questions and technological challenges.
The extended research project undertaken in the final year provides experience of independent scientific research and prepares graduates for doctoral study and careers requiring advanced scientific expertise.
Graduates pursue careers in areas including:
Many graduates progress directly to PhD programmes in physics or related disciplines.
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
Dr Stuart Penn (BSc Hons Physics 1988, PhD 1992) has turned a love of science and sci-fi into a blockbuster movie career. Here he describes his journey from superconductors to special effects.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £10,050
Year in industry fee - £2,010
Year abroad fee - £1,508 (applies to year in China)
Full-time place, per year - £32,000
Year in industry fee - £1,955
Year abroad fee - £16,000 (applies to year in China)
The UK fees shown are for the academic year 2027/28. The international fees shown are for the academic year 2026/27 and will be subject for change for the academic year 2027/28. Please be advised that tuition fees may increase each year for both UK and international students. For UK students, this will be subject to the government’s regulated fee limits.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. You can find information on the general and subject-specific costs you could expect to incur on our study costs webpage.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
4 scholarships are available each year to support undergraduate applicants from socio-economically under-represented backgrounds who permanently reside in the Liverpool City Region. Successful applicants will receive a stipend of £5,000 per year for 3 years. Applications open in August 2026.
This scholarship will support undergraduate students from widening participation backgrounds in the Department of Languages, Cultures and Film with their year abroad.
This award offers £3,000 per year for a UK undergraduate student from an under-represented background who has successfully completed the Liverpool Scholars or Pathways to Medicine programme.
If you’re a UK student joining an undergraduate degree and have a household income below £35,000, you could be eligible for a Liverpool Bursary worth up to £2,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Apply for an Asylum Seekers Scholarship and you could have your tuition fees paid in full and receive help with study costs. You’ll need to have applied for asylum in the UK, or be the dependant of an asylum seeker, and be joining an eligible undergraduate degree.
If you’ve spent 13 or more weeks in Local Authority care since age 14, you could be eligible for a bursary of £3,000 per year of study. You’ll need to be a UK student joining an eligible undergraduate degree and be aged 28 or above on 1 September in the year you start.
Are you a UK student with a Black African or Caribbean heritage and a household income of £25,000 or less? You could be eligible to apply for a Cowrie Foundation Scholarship worth up to £8,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
If you’re a UK student identified as estranged by Student Finance England (or the equivalent UK funding body), you could be eligible for a bursary of £1,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Joining a School of Biosciences degree and have a household income of less than £25,000? If you’re a UK student, you could apply to receive £4,500 per year for three years of your undergraduate course.
Do you live in the Liverpool City Region with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a Nolan Scholarship worth £5,000 per year for three years of undergraduate study.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? If you’ve participated in an eligible outreach programme, you could be eligible to apply for a Rigby Enterprise Award worth £5,000 per year for three years of your undergraduate degree.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £26,500 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a ROLABOTIC Scholarship worth £4,500 for each year of your undergraduate degree.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
Joining a degree in the School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Computer Science? If you’re a UK student with household income below £25,000, you could be eligible to apply for £5,000 a year for three years of study. Two awards will be available per academic year.
If you’re a young adult and a registered carer in the UK, you might be eligible for a £1,000 bursary for each year of study. You’ll need to be aged 18-25 on 1 September in the year you start your undergraduate degree.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| A levels |
ABB including Physics and Mathematics at A level.Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is BBB from A levels, with A in the EPQ. You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme. Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work. Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers. If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course. Available foundation years: |
| T levels |
T levels are not currently accepted. |
| GCSE |
4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics |
| Subject requirements | For applicants from England: For science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a "Pass" is required. |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma | Applications considered alongside A levels. Please contact the University for further information. |
| International Baccalaureate | 32 points overall and no score less than 4 and including a minimum of 5 in HL Mathematics and 5 in HL Physics, or pass the IB Diploma with 6,5,5 in three Higher Level subjects (including HL Mathematics and HL Physics). |
| Irish Leaving Certificate | H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3 including Physics and Mathematics at H2 or above. |
| Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher | Advanced Highers accepted at grades ABB including Physics and Mathematics. |
| Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | B in the Welsh Baccalaureate, plus AB in A level Mathematics and A level Physics. |
| Access | Pass Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject with 45 Level 3 credits with 33 at Distinction (including 15 credits in Mathematics and 15 credits in Physics) and 12 at Merit. |
| International qualifications |
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 78 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 115 overall, with speaking, reading and writing not less than 105, and listening not below 100 |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 59 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 65 overall, with no skill below 60 |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 | Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate. |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 | Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 | 0510: Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade C overall. |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 | 0993: Grade 5 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 5 overall. |
| Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced | 169 overall, with no paper below 162 |
| International Baccalaureate English A: Literature or Language & Literature | Grade 4 at Standard Level or grade 4 at Higher Level |
| International Baccalaureate English B | Grade 6 at Standard Level or grade 5 at Higher Level |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.0 overall, with no component below 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5, for further details.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 8 September 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions