Program Overview

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PhD in Physics

The PhD in Physics is a research-based degree that allows students to explore a specific area of physics in depth. The program is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in physics, as well as the ability to conduct original research.

Supervisors

Students will be supervised on a one-to-one basis by a member of the academic staff. The supervisor will help guide the student's progress, supported by a thesis advisory panel.

Funding

The School of Physics, Engineering and Technology offers funding for research degrees. Students can also apply for external funding opportunities.

Our Research

The School of Physics, Engineering and Technology has a strong research community, with close to 150 research students covering a wide range of topics in physics. The school is ranked 13th in the UK according to the Times Higher Education’s ranking of the latest REF results (2021).

UK Fees

The tuition fees for the PhD in Physics program are as follows: | Length | Start dates (semester dates)
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PhD | 3 years full-time
6 years part-time | January
April
July
September
PhD (Distance Learning) | 3 years full-time
6 years part-time | January
April
July
September

International Fees

International students are welcome to apply for the PhD in Physics program. The tuition fees for international students are available upon request.

Your Research

As a postgraduate researcher, the focus of your work will be an independent research project. You will work with leading researchers while gaining valuable skills through an integrated training program in research methods.

• You will have access to advanced taught courses to help you develop the knowledge and skills needed to conduct your research.
• You will be part of one of our leading research groups, which brings together expertise in fields such as:
  • Condensed matter and materials physics
  • Nuclear physics
  • Plasma and fusion science and technologies
  • Physics of life
  • Quantum science and technologies
• Your research will culminate in a thesis and oral examination. Your thesis should effectively, clearly and concisely communicate the research question, methodology, results, analysis, and conclusions, with quality and depth appropriate for your PhD in Physics degree.

Training and Support

Our research programs combine training in specialist areas with wider scientific skills. We provide training which will equip you with skills in a wide range of research methods, supporting your growing expertise and enhancing your employability.

• Alongside your research, taught modules will help you develop specialist skills and relate your project to developments in the field.
• You will choose from a wide range of Masters and undergraduate modules in specialist areas to complement your research.
• You will also take part in a transferable skills program, covering soft and hard skills.

Course Location

This course is run by the School of Physics, Engineering and Technology. You will be based on Campus West. Most of your training and supervision meetings will take place here, though your research may take you further afield.

Entry Requirements

You should have, or expect to obtain, an MPhys degree at 2:1 or above, or an MSc in Physics. We will also consider applicants with a Masters in a closely related field, applicants who have relevant industry experience, and applicants with a BSc at 2:1 or above where sufficient relevant experience can be demonstrated.

English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of your ability.

Careers and Skills

Your PhD will help to extend your qualifications by training you to complete research in a specific area of experimental, computational or theoretical physics. You will become equipped with transferable skills around creativity and innovation, mathematics and problem-solving to become an expert in your field, prepared for the next stage in your career.

• Career opportunities include:
  • Physicist
  • Software developer
  • Principal data scientist
  • Product engineer
  • Academic researcher
  • Lecturer or teacher
• Our dedicated careers team offers specific support, including a program of professional researcher development and careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions. They will help you to build up your employability portfolio and to engage in activities that will build up your skills and experience within and outside of your research work.