Overview
Do you like the idea of applying new technologies to solve complex problems? Are you interested in the how and why of creation?
Physics is the most fundamental of sciences. Quantum Theory and Relativity Theory challenge our imaginations as they reveal the amazing counterintuitive world that lies behind appearances. Advances in physics continue to lead to new technologies that change our world and forge a path to a brighter future.
You’ll graduate with strong mathematical, analytical, problem-solving and computational abilities that are in high demand in sectors like financial services, aerospace development and publishing. You can also go on to postgraduate study or further research.
What you'll experience
On this course you'll:
- Study topics including the fabrication of new bulk and nano-materials, and the application of fundamental quantum effects in the development of quantum information processes
- Have the chance to do an industry-based major research project under supervision of a leading physicist
- Make the most of our links to industry through the Portsmouth Physics Industry Advisory Board
- Access our newly built laboratory facilities, the home of new advanced testing equipment
- Get support from highly skilled academic, research and technical staff
- Get to grips with exciting technologies including Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM)
- Use LabVIEW software – the same software CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) use to run the Large Hadron Collider particle accelerator
- Study at a university where physics research was ranked in the top 10 nationally for quality of research outputs in the latest Government-backed REF (Research Excellence Framework)
- Contribute to the work of our research groups by taking part in a major final-year project
Work experience and career planning
Our Careers and Employability service can help you find relevant work experience and research opportunities during your course.
We can help you identify placements, internships and voluntary opportunities that will complement your studies and match your future ambitions.
Teaching
Teaching methods on this course include:
- lectures
- practical work
- field work
- seminars
- workshops
- projects
The focus of teaching on this course is on active learning, so you'll have the practical skills you need to succeed in your career.
How you're assessed
You’ll be assessed through:
- coursework
- practical work (both laboratory and field based)
- presentations
- production of posters and portfolios
- a research based final-year project
You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark.
You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future.
The way you’re assessed may depend on the modules you select. As a guide, students on this course last year were typically assessed as follows:
- Year 1 students: 28% by written exams and 72% by coursework
- Year 2 students: 55% by written exams and 45% by coursework
- Year 3 students: 45% by written exams, 12% by practical exams and 43% by coursework
Careers and opportunities
After the course you could continue your studies by doing a PhD or other postgraduate qualification, join a graduate training scheme or go straight into employment.
What can you do with a Physics degree?
Previous graduates of this course have gone on to roles in areas such as:
- defence communications
- medical physics
- electronics
- energy
- aerospace
- scientific journalism
- teaching
- finance
Whichever path you choose post-graduation, our careers and employability team will provide help and support for up to 5 years after you leave the University.
