Program start date | Application deadline |
2026-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Physics F301
A higher-level accredited qualification which includes real-world projects in research and industry, this course is ideal for those planning to move into research or a career in physics and related fields.
Start Dates
- September 2026
- September 2025
Degree Type
MPhys
Course Length
4 years full-time
Location
Durham City
UCAS Code
F301
Typical Offers
- A Level: AAA
- BTEC: DDD
- International Baccalaureate: 38
Course Details
This integrated Master’s degree is the first step towards Chartered Physicist status. It will suit those looking for an accredited course that leads to higher level education or a research role in physics, as well as providing a starting point for roles in science, finance, engineering and IT.
Undergraduate physics degrees at Durham offer a high level of flexibility. We offer four Institute of Physics accredited courses – MPhys qualifications in Physics, Physics and Astronomy, and Theoretical Physics and the three-year BSc in Physics – which follow the same core curriculum in Year 1.
Subject to the optional modules chosen, it is possible to switch to one of the other courses until the end of the second year. You can also apply for a one-year work placement or study abroad opportunity with one of our partner organisations, increasing the course from four years to five.
The first year lays the foundation in physics theory, mathematical skills and laboratory skills that you will need to tackle more complex content later in the course. From Year 2 you'll have the opportunity to explore areas such as astrophysics, quantum theory or the relationship between physics and society in more detail.
As you progress to Year 3 learning is more closely aligned to real-world issues through project work and optional modules that are tailored to your interests and aspirations. Your knowledge is further extended in Year 4 with a project based on a live research topic, and higher-level modules which take your study of physics to a greater depth.
Course Structure
Year 1 Modules
Core Modules:
- Foundations of Physics: introduces classical aspects of wave phenomena and electromagnetism, as well as basic concepts in Newtonian mechanics, quantum mechanics, special relativity and optical physics.
- Discovery Skills in Physics: provides a practical introduction to laboratory skills development with particular emphasis on measurement uncertainty, data analysis and written and oral communication skills. It also includes an introduction to programming.
Optional Modules:
- In recent years optional modules have included:
- Single Mathematics
- Linear Algebra
- Calculus.
Year 2 Modules
Core Modules:
- Foundations of Physics A: develops your knowledge of quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. You will learn to apply the principles of physics to predictable and unpredictable problems and produce a well-structured solution, with clear reasoning and appropriate presentation.
- Foundations of Physics B: extends your knowledge of thermodynamics, condensed matter physics and optics.
- Mathematical Methods in Physics: provides the necessary mathematical knowledge to successfully tackle the Foundations of Physics modules. It covers vectors, vector integral and vector differential calculus, multivariable calculus and orthogonal curvilinear coordinates, Fourier analysis, orthogonal functions, the use of matrices, and the mathematical tools for solving ordinary and partial differential equations in a variety of physical problems.
- Laboratory Skills and Electronics: builds lab-based skills, such as experiment planning, data analysis, scientific communication and specific practical skills. It aims to teach electronics as a theoretical and a practical subject, to teach the techniques of computational physics and numerical methods and to provide experience of a research-led investigation in physics in preparation for post-university life.
Optional Modules:
- In recent years optional modules have included:
- Stars and Galaxies
- Theoretical Physics
- Physics in Society.
Year 3 Modules
Core Modules:
- Foundations of Physics A: further develops your knowledge to include quantum mechanics and nuclear and particle physics. You will learn to apply the principles of physics to complex problems and produce a well-structured solution, with clear reasoning and appropriate presentation.
- Foundations of Physics B: increases your knowledge to include statistical physics and condensed matter physics.
- Computing Project: is designed to develop your computational and problem-solving skills. You work on advanced computational physics problems using a variety of modern computing techniques and present your findings in a project report, poster and oral presentation.
Optional Modules:
- In recent years optional modules have included:
- Team Project
- Advanced Laboratory
- Mathematics Workshop
- Physics into Schools
- Planets and Cosmology
- Theoretical Physics
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Modern Atomic and Optical Physics
Year 4 Modules
Core Modules:
- MPhys Project: The research-based project can be carried out individually or as part of a small group. It provides experience of work in a research environment on a topic at the forefront of developments in a branch of either physics, applied physics, theoretical physics or astronomy, and develops transferable skills for the oral and written presentation of research. The project can be carried out in one of the Department’s research groups or in collaboration with an external organisation.
Optional Modules:
- In recent years optional modules have included:
- Atoms, Lasers and Qubits
- Advanced Condensed Matter Physics
- Advanced Theoretical Physics
- Particle Theory
- Advanced Astrophysics
- Theoretical Astrophysics
- Planets and Cosmology
- Theoretical Physics
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Modern Atomic and Optical Physics.
Learning
Lectures are the starting point of the learning process. You will actively engage with the topics introduced in lectures through a combination of laboratory classes, problem exercises, tutorials and workshops.
Laboratory classes give you the chance to plan experiments and to interpret data. You will also be set regular problem exercises which develop your theoretical understanding and problem-solving abilities, these exercises form the basis for discussions in small-group tutorials.
Assessment
Assessment is mainly by end-of-year examinations and by project reports and presentations.
The range of assessment methods is designed to assess your knowledge and understanding of the course content, test your capacity to solve problems, enhance your written and oral communication skills, and assess your ability to relate your learning to real-world scenarios.
Entry Requirements
- A level offer: AAA including Physics and Mathematics.
- Contextual offer: AAB including AA in Physics and Mathematics (either way round).
- BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma: DDD and A levels as above.
- IB Diploma score: 38 with 776 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics (maths analysis & approaches) and Physics.
Fees and Funding
The fees for this academic year have not been confirmed yet.
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full-time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full-time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and will be subject to an annual inflationary increase expected to rise throughout the programme of study.
Career Opportunities
We seek to develop the practical and intellectual skills sought by employers and we are regularly ranked among the country's top performers for graduate employment. Our graduates have progressed to careers in business, industry, commerce, research, management and education, and typically more than a fifth of our graduates go on to study for higher degrees.
The Department also has an impressive track record of spin-out technology companies that commercialise our knowledge in areas of semiconductors, composites and advanced instrumentation. Examples of high-profile employers include BT, Procter & Gamble, Rolls Royce and BAE Systems.
Department Information
With recent ground-breaking discoveries in astronomy, the Universe, subatomic particles and nuclear fusion there’s never been a better time to study physics. Join one of the UK’s leading teaching and research departments and become a part of this exciting discipline.
When you study physics at Durham you will work with experts across a range of specialisms to explore subjects such as the Big Bang, black holes, the Higgs boson, high-temperature superconductors, lasers, cold-atom Bose-Einstein condensates, biophysics and more.
Our undergraduate physics degrees offer outstanding teaching, learning and employability outcomes for students. We offer four Institute of Physics accredited BSc and MPhys qualifications which share a common first year. Course content ranges from fundamental topics, such as elementary particle physics and cosmology, to applied areas which include material physics and biophysics.
All courses allow you to select a number of modules tailored to your interests and career aspirations, and the course structures have been designed to provide flexibility in your final choice of degree. This means, depending on modules chosen, you need not make a firm decision about your course until the end of the second year. You also have the option to apply for a year-long work placement or study abroad opportunity with one of our partner organisations.
For more information see our department pages.
Rankings
- 3rd The Complete University Guide 2025 and The Guardian University Guide 2025
- Top 100 The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
- 7th The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
Staff
For a current list of staff, please see our department web pages.
Facilities
Our Department lies in the heart of the University on the main campus among the science and engineering departments and the University library.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview:
- This integrated Master's degree is the first step towards becoming a professional physicist and is accredited by the Institute of Physics.
- It is ideal for students desiring a career in research, physics, and related fields.
- The course provides a strong foundation in physics theory, mathematics, and laboratory skills, gradually progressing towards more complex content in later years.
Objectives:
- Equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in physics.
- Prepare students for postgraduate studies or research roles in physics.
- Provide a solid foundation for careers in science, engineering, finance, and IT.
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills.
- Enhance practical laboratory skills and data analysis expertise.
- Foster written and oral communication skills.
Course Description:
- Starts with a common Year 1 program for all physics undergraduate degrees, offering flexibility to switch between courses until the second year.
- Four-year program with the option to extend to five years through a placement or study abroad opportunity.
- Emphasis on project work and research-based learning, culminating in a challenging MPhys project in Year 4.
Outline
Year 1:
- Core Modules:
- Discovery Skills in Physics: Provides practical laboratory skills development while focusing on measurement uncertainty, data analysis, written and oral communication.
- Mathematics Requirements:
- Completion of two Mathematics modules
- Algebra
- Calculus
- Optional Modules:
- Single Mathematics
Year 2:
- Core Modules:
- Foundations of Physics A: Develops advanced knowledge in quantum mechanics and electromagnetism.
- Foundations of Physics B: Expands knowledge in thermodynamics, condensed matter physics, and optics.
- Mathematical Methods in Physics: Provides essential mathematical tools for navigating the Foundations of Physics modules.
- Laboratory Skills and Electronics: Enhances laboratory-based skills in planning, data analysis, scientific communication, specific practical skills, and electronics.
- Optional Modules:
- Stars and Galaxies
- Theoretical Physics
- Physics in Society
Year 3:
- Core Modules:
- Foundations of Physics A: Advanced knowledge in quantum mechanics, nuclear and particle physics.
- Foundations of Physics B: Increases knowledge in statistical and condensed matter physics.
- The Computing Project: Develops computational and problem-solving skills using advanced computational techniques for complex physics problems.
- Optional Modules:
- Team Project
- Advanced Laboratory
- Mathematics Workshop
- Physics into Schools
- Planets and Cosmology
- Theoretical Physics
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Modern Atomic and Optical Physics
Year 4:
- Core Module:
- MPhys Project: Conduct research individually or as a team on a topic at the forefront of physics, applied physics, theoretical physics, or astronomy.
- Optional Modules:
- Atoms, Lasers and Qubits
- Advanced Condensed Matter Physics
- Advanced Theoretical Physics
- Particle Theory
- Advanced Astrophysics
- Theoretical Astrophysics
- Planets and Cosmology
- Theoretical Physics
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Modern Atomic and Optical Physics
Assessment
Assessment primarily occurs through end-of-year examinations, along with project reports and presentations. This multi-faceted approach assesses knowledge and understanding, problem-solving abilities, written and oral communication skills, and real-world scenario application.
Teaching
- Teaching methods combine lectures, laboratory classes, tutorials, workshops, and problem exercises.
- Tutorials enable small-group discussions around problem exercises.
Careers
- Graduates are highly sought-after, with impressive employment statistics.
- Over 93% of graduates are in paid employment or further study 15 months after graduation.
- 95% of employed graduates secure high-skilled positions with an average salary of £33,000.
- Notable employers include BT, Procter & Gamble, Rolls Royce, and BAE Systems.
- Potential career paths cover research, business, industry, commerce, and management.
- More than 20% of graduates pursue higher degrees.
Other
- The program is ranked within the top 100 Physics programs worldwide according to QS World University Subject Rankings 2
Durham University
Overview:
Durham University is a prestigious public research university located in Durham, England. It is renowned for its academic excellence, historic setting, and vibrant student life. The university is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities globally, with particular strengths in subjects like History, Engineering, Psychology, Geography, Physics, and Law.
Services Offered:
Durham University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Library & Collections:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.Student Support & Wellbeing:
Comprehensive support services for students' academic, personal, and mental health needs.Careers, Employability and Enterprise:
Guidance and resources to help students develop their career skills and find employment opportunities.Enrichment Activities:
A diverse range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies to enhance the student experience.Welcome and Orientation:
A comprehensive program to help new students settle into university life.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Durham University provides a unique and enriching campus experience. Students can expect:
Residential Colleges:
Living in historic and beautiful colleges, fostering a strong sense of community.Vibrant Social Scene:
A lively social scene with numerous events, clubs, and societies.Historic Setting:
Studying in a city steeped in history, with iconic landmarks like Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle.Close-knit Community:
A friendly and supportive environment with a strong sense of belonging.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
Consistently ranked among the top universities globally, offering high-quality teaching and research.Prestigious Reputation:
A globally recognized institution with a strong alumni network.Historic Setting:
A unique and inspiring campus environment with a rich history and culture.Vibrant Student Life:
A lively and diverse student community with numerous opportunities for personal and professional development.Academic Programs:
Durham University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
History, English Literature, Classics, Philosophy, Theology, and more.Science and Engineering:
Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, Computer Science, and more.Social Sciences:
Psychology, Sociology, Economics, Politics, Geography, and more.Business and Management:
Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, and more.Other:
Global Durham:
The university has a strong international presence, with partnerships and collaborations worldwide.Research Impact:
Durham University conducts innovative and impactful research across various fields.Sustainability:
The university is committed to sustainability, with initiatives to enhance biodiversity and reduce its environmental impact.Alumni Network:
A strong and active alumni network, providing support and opportunities for graduates.A-Level Applicants:
- A*A*A including Physics and Mathematics.
- Contextual offer: A*AB including Physics and Mathematics.
BTEC Applicants:
- D*D*D and A-levels as above.
IB Diploma Applicants:
- 38 total with 776 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics (maths analysis & approaches) and Physics.
Other Qualifications:
- The university considers other Level 3 qualifications, including T-levels.
- Transfer from the BSc degree to the MPhys degree is possible based on first and second-year examinations.
- Applicants taking Science A-levels must pass the practical component to qualify.