Program Overview

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Physics (Industrial) MPhys, BSc

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.

Industrial Placement Year

This programme gives you the opportunity to undertake a paid industrial placement year as part of the course. Our close industry links give you the platform to apply to a number of major organisations such as Reinshaw, Elder Studios and Vodafone Ltd.

Why Study at Leeds

• This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).
• Our School's globally-renowned research feeds into the course, shaping what you learn with the latest thinking.
• Enhance your career prospects and give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate with a paid industrial placement year.
• Learn from expert academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of physics areas.
• Access specialist facilities including laboratories and teaching spaces right here on campus.
• Our comprehensive approach to teaching will give you a holistic understanding of how physics, mathematics, computing and experimental learning link together to qualify you as a physicist.
• Get hands-on and put theory into practice through exciting project work.
• Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining our student society Physics Society (Physoc), a student-run society for physics students.

Accreditation

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the relevant professional body. This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP). This integrated Masters degree (MPhys, BSc) guarantees you eligibility for IOP membership and is accredited as fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a registered scientist (RSci) and to qualify as a chartered physicist (CPhys).

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 programme, 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.

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.

• Mechanics, Relativity and Astrophysics – 20 credits
• Thermodynamics – 20 credits
• Electronics, Solid State and Introduction to Quantum Physics – 20 credits
• Vibrations, Waves and Optics – 20 credits
• Coding and Experimental Physics – 20 credits

Optional Modules

You'll choose either one or both of the following optional modules. Or you may choose to combine one optional module with discovery modules.

• Introduction to Nanotechnology – 10 credits
• Planets and the Search for Life – 10 credits

Year 3

You'll have the opportunity to apply to spend a year in industry. A work placement is an invaluable opportunity to transfer your learning into a practical setting, applying the knowledge and skills you've been taught throughout your degree to real-world challenges – in a working environment.

Year 4

In your fourth 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.

• Advanced Topics in Physics – 40 credits
• Project – 40 credits

Optional Modules

As we're currently reviewing the curriculum, specific optional modules have not been confirmed for 2026 entry.

• Cosmology
• Theoretical Particle Physics
• Quantum Photonics
• Magnetism in Condensed Matter
• Molecular Simulation: Theory and Practice

Year 5

For your final-year project, you'll work as part of an internationally recognised research team on an open-ended project. You'll plan and organise your work, follow it through and present your results.

• Research Project – 60 credits

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
• Quantum Field Theory – 15 credits
• Winds, Bubbles and Explosions – 15 credits
• Advanced Bionanophysics Research – 15 credits
• Quantum Information Science and Technology – 15 credits
• Current Research Topics in Physics – 15 credits
• Physics of Biological Systems – 15 credits
• Exoplanetary Systems – 15 credits
• Quantum Many-Body Physics – 15 credits
• Soft Matter Physics: Polymers, Colloids and Glasses – 15 credits
• General Relativity – 15 credits
• Superconductivity – 15 credits
• Advanced Physics in Schools – 15 credits
• Group Innovation Project in Sustainability – 15 credits

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.

Assessment

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

Entry Requirements

• A-level: AAA including Physics and Mathematics.
• 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.

Alternative Qualifications

• Access to HE Diploma: Overall pass of the Access to HE, with 45 credits at level 3. Of these 45 credits, 30 level 3 credits must be in Physics and Mathematics and must be passed with Distinction.
• BTEC: BTEC qualifications in relevant disciplines are considered in combination with A Level Physics and Mathematics.
• Cambridge Pre-U: D3 D3 M2 to include Physics and Mathematics.
• International Baccalaureate: 18 points at Higher Level to include 5 in Higher Level Physics and 5 in Higher Level Mathematics.
• Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level): H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2 including H2 in both Physics and Mathematics.
• Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers: AA at Advanced Higher in Physics and Mathematics with AABBB at Higher.
• T-Levels: We do not accept T Levels as entry onto this course.

Fees

• UK: £9,790
• International: £32,750 (per year)

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.

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.

Applying

Apply to this course and check the deadline for applications through the UCAS website.

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.

Work Placements

This programme gives you the opportunity to undertake a paid industrial placement year as part of the course. It's important to note, work placements are not guaranteed.

Related Courses

• Theoretical Physics (Industrial) MPhys, BSc
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• Physics with Astrophysics (Industrial) BSc
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