Physics BSc (Hons)

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.

Programme in detail

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.

Work placement/Year in industry

Students who want to gain work experience to enhance their employability can transfer to our Year in Industry option available to all physics-related degree programmes. Candidates should apply to their programme of choice, e.g. BSc Physics (F300) or MPhys Astrophysics (F521), and then can opt-in to the corresponding Year in Industry programme during their first two years of study.

All our programmes have a common mathematics and physics core in the first two years which provides a good measure of flexibility while laying a solid ground for a wealth of choices to work in all most all kind of industrial settings. After those two foundation years, students then work in their chosen industrial setting, learning on-the-job training and experience, before returning to complete their remaining programme of study.

The department of Physics and the University will provide the necessary support and guidance for this optional Year in Industry programme, however, it is the responsibility of the student to secure an appropriate industrial placement. Applicants should note that industrial placements are highly sought after and the process as well as the competition to be accepted is a rewarding and real-life challenge. Students who couldn't find a suitable placement offer or like to withdraw from the option will transfer back to the standard version of their programme.

Year abroad

This degree programme now has a Year Abroad option (Physics with a Year Abroad BSc, UCAS code: F333). The Year Abroad is an incredible new opportunity to spend one academic year at one our partner universities expanding your academic and cultural horizons. You’ll spend this time abroad in between your second and third years of study and your degree will extend by one year.

During the Year Abroad you’ll take a variety of modules. Some modules will be related to the culture, history and society of the country you’re living and others will be discipline-related modules. This mixture means you have a fantastic opportunity to learn in-depth about your host country as well as learn new and exciting knowledge that will complement your degree studies back in Liverpool. Research from Universities UK tells us that students who spend time studying abroad during their degree programme are more likely to be in further education or employment 6 months after graduating, earn higher than average salaries and are more likely to graduate with a 2:1 or First Class degree.

Take a look at the Study Abroad webpages for more information.

Department Key Facts

Number of first year students

125 Year One undergraduates in 2018

UK league tables

Ranked 5th in the Guardian University League Tables in 2019

Graduate prospects

93% are employed or in further study six months after graduating (Destination of Leavers from Higher Education 2016/17)

Facts and figures

The Department of Physics has produced three Nobel Laureates. 
Accreditation
Our programmes are accredited by the Institute of Physics which means they satisfy the academic requirements for Chartered Physicist status.

Why this subject?

Create a degree to suit you

Explore and apply fundamental principles that underpin modern physics, from electrodynamics and semiconductors to the startling conclusions of relativity and quantum mechanics. Our flexible programmes allow students to transfer up to the end of Year Two between any of the physics programmes.

Be part of a supportive community working together to do great science

Our open-door approach enables us to offer you a friendly and supportive learning environment.

Prepare for your professional career

All of our BSc and MPhys programmes are accredited by the Institute of Physics, and our specialist programmes such as Physics with Nuclear Science and Physics with Medical Applications provide skill sets necessary for these growing sectors.

Be at the forefront of modern physics

There are opportunities to work alongside our internationally renowned academics at projects at the LHC at CERN and in many international and national research centres in the USA, Canada, Japan, Korea and many European countries.

Learn in our award-winning facilities

Teaching takes place in our £23 million Central Teaching Laboratories, which have transformed the way in which physical sciences are taught at the University.

Our plans for teaching 2021/22

Over the last year, we have delivered teaching to suit a range of circumstances, within UK Government guidelines. Take a look at our plans for delivering teaching from September.