BSc Physics with Biophysics - 2026 entry

Overview

Gain a solid foundation in modern physics and biophysical applications, from the physical foundation of biological systems to imaging techniques applied to biological systems. Learn within a supportive community characterised by genuine student-staff relationships and small tutorial groups, typically made up of five students. You’ll focus on modern physics methods and applications, equipping you with the knowledge and skills for addressing contemporary challenges in the field. Benefit from access to advanced research facilities including advanced research and teaching labs, observatory and computer labs. Our continuous skills development programme, designed with industry partners, will enable you to craft a digital portfolio and CV to showcase your skills to potential employers.

Entry requirements (typical offer)

• A-Level: AAA-ABB
• IB: 36/666 – 32/655
• BTEC: DDD-DDM
• Contextual offers: A-Level: ABB-ABC, IB: 32/655-28/554, BTEC: DDM-DMM

Course content

Our programme is carefully designed around a skills development roadmap that starts on day one, and continues across your whole degree.

• Year 1:
  • Compulsory modules:
    • PHY1032: Physics of Everyday Life (60 credits)
    • PHY1033: Mathematics Skills (30 credits)
    • PHY1034: Computational Data Analysis (15 credits)
    • PHY1035: Experimental Physics (15 credits)
    • PHY1036: Employability and Professional Skills Development (0 credits)
• Year 2:
  • Compulsory modules:
    • PHY2029: The Physics of Living Systems (15 credits)
    • PHY2037: Nonlinear Optics and Imaging (15 credits)
    • PHY2039: From Fields to Quanta (60 credits)
    • PHY2040: Mathematics for Physicists (15 credits)
    • PHY2041: Experimental Physics II (15 credits)
    • PHY2042: Employability and Professional Skills Development II (0 credits)
• Final year:
  • Compulsory modules:
    • PHY3052: Nuclear and High Energy Physics (15 credits)
    • PHY3061: The Biophysics of Cells and Tissues (15 credits)
    • PHY3071: Soft Matter (15 credits)
    • PHY3072: Physics Project (30 credits)
    • PHY3073: States of Matter (15 credits)
    • PHY3074: Employability and Professional Skills Development III (0 credits)
  • Optional modules:
    • PHY3051: Electromagnetism II (15 credits)
    • PHY3062: Methods of Theoretical Physics (15 credits)
    • PHY3064: Nanostructures and Graphene Science (15 credits)
    • PHY3066: Galaxies and High Energy Astrophysics (15 credits)
    • PHY3068: Principles of Theoretical Physics (15 credits)
    • PHY3070: Stars from Birth to Death (15 credits)
    • PHY3075: Introduction to Quantum Technology (15 credits)
    • PHY3220: Fluid Dynamics in Physics and Astronomy (15 credits)
    • PHY3222: Energy, Materials and Sustainability (15 credits)

Course variants

• BSc Physics with Biophysics, with Study Abroad
• BSc Physics with Biophysics, with Professional Placement

Fees

• UK students: £9,535 per year
• International students: £30,900 per year

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships.

Learning and teaching

Learning and teaching at Exeter is undertaken in a variety of ways, ranging from classic style lecturing, weekly problem-solving classes, computing practical sessions, and laboratory sessions. You will be fully supported during your journey as a student in a variety of ways, in a friendly and relaxed environment. You will have weekly skills development sessions where you will have the chance to develop the transversal skills needed for your academic, personal and professional development.

Assessment

Assessment in Exeter is performed via a combination of exams and continuous assessments, including problem sets, reports, multimedia presentations, posters and vivas. You will be able to find a variety of modules with different approaches, ranging from 100% exam-based ones to 100% coursework ones.

Your future

Employability skills are an integral part of the physics curriculum. The flexibility and adaptability of a well-trained physicist is appreciated by employers: they acknowledge the benefits of excellent problem solving skills, an educated scientific intuition, and the confidence to be able to grasp new concepts quickly.

• Career paths:
  • Academic Researcher
  • Actuary
  • Astronomer
  • Chartered and Certified Accountant
  • Cyber Security Professional
  • Engineer
  • Financial Accounts Manager
  • IT Business Analyst and Systems Architect
  • Programmer
  • Software Developer
  • Teacher

Related courses

• Physics BSc
• Physics with Astrophysics BSc
• Natural Sciences BSc
• Physics with Quantum Technology BSc
• Theoretical Physics BSc
• Physics with Biophysics MPhys

University of Exeter

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Overview:

The University of Exeter is a public research university located in Exeter, Devon, England. It is a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK. The university is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in the fields of law, business, and environmental sciences.

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Services Offered:

The University of Exeter offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Student website:

Provides access to information and resources for current students.

ELE (Exeter Learning Environment):

An online platform for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and communicating with instructors.

Email web access:

Allows students to access their university email accounts.

Payment portal:

Enables students to make payments for tuition fees and other expenses.

MyExeter (student app):

A mobile app that provides access to various student services and information.

Library:

Offers a comprehensive collection of books, journals, and other resources.

SID (Student Information Database):

A system for managing student records and accessing personal information.

Timetable:

Allows students to view their class schedules.

Programme and module information:

Provides details about academic programs and courses.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The University of Exeter offers a vibrant and diverse student experience. Students can expect:

Active student societies:

A wide range of clubs and societies cater to various interests.

Sports facilities:

The university has excellent sports facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, and sports fields.

Campus events:

Regular events and activities are organized throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and social gatherings.

Accommodation options:

The university provides a variety of accommodation options for students, both on and off campus.

Wellbeing services:

The university offers a range of support services for student wellbeing, including counseling and mental health support.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Excellent academic reputation:

The University of Exeter is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK.

World-leading research:

The university is renowned for its research, particularly in areas such as environmental sciences, law, and business.

Vibrant student life:

The university offers a diverse and engaging student experience with a wide range of clubs, societies, and events.

Beautiful campus setting:

The university's campuses are located in picturesque settings, with easy access to the city of Exeter and the surrounding countryside.

Strong career support:

The university provides excellent career support services to help students find employment after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Exeter offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

English, History, Classics, Philosophy, Music, Drama, and more.

Social Sciences:

Law, Politics, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, and more.

Science and Engineering:

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and more.

Medicine and Health:

Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and more.

Business and Management:

Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, Accounting, and more.

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Other:

• The university has three main campuses: Streatham Campus, St Luke's Campus, and Penryn Campus.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong focus on environmental issues.

• The university has a strong international reputation and attracts students from all over the world.

• Academic Programs:

  While the context mentions some general disciplines, it does not provide a detailed outline of the key academic programs and strengths of the institution.