Physics with a Foundation Year

Physics combines analytical reasoning and problem solving, using the language of mathematics to understand the universe. Our Physics programmes are perfect for those with a deep desire to understand how everything works, from the subatomic quantum world to the vastness of the cosmos.

We are proud of our research at the frontiers of physics and strive to inspire the next generation of physicists, with an exciting environment for learning and research. Our curriculum is shaped by world-leading experts across a wide spectrum of research areas, ranging from semiconductors, nanophysics and lasers, to the physics of antimatter, quantum fields and the early universe.

Our extensive network of research collaborations, including at large-scale facilities such as CERN, give exciting project and research opportunities.

Our Physics, Particle Physics and Cosmology programme will cover the fundamental principles of physics and their application, with the opportunity to develop further knowledge in specialisms including stella astrophysics, Gravity, analysis of neutrino oscillation data, Cosmology and advanced particle physics.

Throughout your studies you will be equipped with a range of analytical and problem-solving skills, which have wide ranging applications across disciplines, and will have the opportunity to work on an advanced project under the supervision of internationally-recognised academics.

On completion of the course, you will be equipped with the skills, knowledge and experience to confidently enter the workforce across a wide range of sectors including government research, aerospace, defence, energy, engineering, education and the private sector. Physics graduate roles include:

• Research Physicist

• Data Scientist

• AI and Software Engineer

• Demand Forecaster

• Patent Examiner

• Quantitative Finance Analyst

You may also go on to pursue postgraduate studies and research with a wide variety of specialisations.

The optional Foundation Year for this programme can give you an exciting introduction to higher education, setting you up with the skills, confidence, and knowledge that you’ll need to be successful in your undergraduate degree. It’s ideal if you need a little more support after further education, or are returning to education after a gap.

In the Foundation year, Year 0, you will be introduced to topics that will prepare you for the degree course. Modules may include Mechanics; Electricity and Magnetism; Mathematics for Physicists; Waves, Options and Thermal Physics; and Atoms, Nuclei and Particles.

In Year 1, you will typically study areas including: Classical Mechanics; Astronomy and Cosmology; Mathematics for Physicists; Quantum Mechanics; Special Relativity; and Practical Physics which can be studied in English or Welsh.

In Year 2, you will typically study areas including: Electromagnetism; Practical Physics; Mathematics for Physicists; Thermal and Statistical Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Experimental Physics, Professional Development and Career Planning.

In Year 3, you will typically study areas including: Nuclear and Particle Physics, Condensed Matter Physics and Atomic Physics. There are also optional modules, such as Gravity and Cosmology, Lasers and Optics, Semiconductor Physics and Science Communication with a Placement.

We are proud to provide an outstanding educational experience, using the most effective learning and teaching approaches, carefully tailored to suit the specific needs of your course. Our programme consists of in-person, on-campus teaching, enabling full engagement with your lecturers and fellow students.

We believe in fostering a learning environment where students actively engage with physics concepts through experimentation, data analysis, and problem-solving. We offer informal weekly Maths drop-in support sessions to assist with developing and enhancing problem solving skills. These are mentored by postgraduate students.

We use inquiry-based learning, labs and practical work and diverse assessment types throughout the programme. The labs and practical work promote active engagement, hands-on learning, diverse skills development and real-world experience. The research project modules gives you the opportunity to participate in real-life research, working on real-world problems/questions. Lectures take place in larger group sessions, in a lecture theatre setting. The course content is explored in further detail in workshops, allowing for further collaborative working with your peers.

Lecture recordings allow for more flexibility to revisit material, to revise for assessments and to enhance learning outside of the classroom. Some modules have extra resources in Canvas, our virtual learning environment, such as videos, slides and quizzes enabling further flexible study.

This course may offer some modules taught through the medium of Welsh or bilingually for students who consider themselves to be fluent Welsh speakers. For more details on the provision available see the Welsh Provision expander below.

This course may offer some modules taught through the medium of Welsh or bilingually for students who consider themselves to be fluent Welsh speakers. For more details on the provision available see the Welsh Provision expander below.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Physics, Institute of