Physics BSc
All our Physics students study the same core of fundamental physics and maths, based on Institute of Physics (IOP) 'core of physics' material. This includes classical mechanics, waves and fields, electromagnetism, special relativity, thermodynamics, quantum and atomic physics. By choosing the Physics BSc you will have access to the widest range of specialist options in each year.
As a physics student at Leicester you will acquire an appreciation of the scope and impact of modern physics and the use of mathematics, computing and experimentation to solve important real-world problems.
You will study the fundamental theories of physics, from classical mechanics, waves and fields, to relativity, atomic and particle physics. Through option courses and projects you will have the opportunity to explore the areas of physics linked to the School's world-leading research - such as planetary science, climate physics, nanotechnology, astrophysics, medical physics and space science.
What's the difference?
- Our three-year BSc degrees provide an excellent route to a very wide range of careers in industry and business
- Our four-year MPhys degrees are aimed at students considering a career or further training in scientific research
Transfer between BSc and MPhys degrees is possible during your first and second years (subject to meeting the required end-of-year mark). It is also possible to transfer between different Physics degrees as long as you have taken the required number of options. Staff in the School will be available to offer help and advice.
Careers and employability
In your third year you will have the option to do a ten-week group research project with one of our industrial partners such as Airbus Defence and Space, Jorin Ltd., Domino Printing or Weatherford International. You will gain invaluable project, budget and team management experience working in a professional environment on a real project.
You can gain first-hand experience of physics education through a final year mentoring scheme with physics teachers in local schools, working for half a day a week over one semester.
We offer a small number of Summer Research Placements: six weeks of paid employment working with the research groups within the School of Physics and Astronomy. These placements provide excellent experience if you want to go on to a career in academic or industrial research.
Our dedicated Careers Tutor can provide information, advice and guidance on the graduate job application process.
Graduate destinations
Recent graduate destinations include:
- Henry - Data Visualisation Lead, Office for National Statistics (graduated MPhys Physics with Astrophysics)
- Katie - Research Assistant at the Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London (graduated MPhys Physics)
- Elizabeth - Product Analytics at Facebook, London (graduated BSc Physics)
- Jack - Cyber Security Engineer at KHIPU Networks (graduated BSc Physics with Astrophysics)
- Jasmine - PhD Student at UCL (graduated MPhys Physics)
- Lucy - Senior Clinical Trials Coordinator at East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust (graduated BSc Physics)
- Saira - Plant Implementation Lead at Ford Motor Company (graduated BSc Physics)

My name is Kavisha Prince Anthony, and I always had a dream of studying abroad. Thankfully, that dream came to life since I applied to the Study Advisor. I was able to receive my visa within four days. I also had some visa refusals in the past; I had about six UK visa refusals in the past, but thankfully, it was not an issue since the Study Advisor was able to make things work this time. I highly recommend Study Advisor for your dreams of going abroad, whether it be the UK or any other European country there is.