Physics

Physics underpins everyday life, from the structure of the universe to the smartphone in your hand. Put yourself in position to discover the next scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations with an accredited BSc (Hons) Physics degree with Salford.

Physics is at the heart of modern life. By having the knowledge to discover future technological advances and find applications for scientific discoveries, qualified physicist are driving our future. We've developed our professionally-accredited course to provide you with fundamental and specialist knowledge base ready to build a successful graduate career in teaching, research or industry.

Take your passion for physics further
Accredited by the Institute of Physics, you will follow an industry-informed three-year programme, delivered through engaging lectures, tutorial classes and laboratory classes. Physics can be challenging, so we place great emphasis on small group teaching to make you feel fully supported. You’ll have an immersive experience, taking part in group projects to develop team working, problem solving, and communication and presentation skills.

Due to the analytical and problem solving nature of physics, this degree will open up the subject spectrum. During your studies, you’ll develop an understanding of classical and quantum waves, and properties of matter. You’ll gain advanced knowledge in fields of nuclear and particle physics, Maxwell’s equation and quantum mechanics. You can also choose optional modules in acoustics and nanotechnology.

Collaboration is core to our values, so we strive to embed this as a learning objective throughout your studies. You will experience group projects that will build your confidence and capabilities in team working, problem-solving and communication - all desirable skills for real-world physics careers.

Get closer to industry
Learning takes places in our Peel Park campus, minutes from bustling central Manchester. A unique part of our physics degree is our emphasis on employer engagement. Along with regular guest lecturers and industry visits, we consult with professional physicists from industry to ensure that the course content is robust and relevant for industry and graduate careers.

On this course, you'll also have the option to take an industry placement between years two and three. By successfully completing a placement year, you can also add 'with professional experience' to your final degree award, boosting your graduate employability.

Our new home for physics
In Autumn 2022, we opened our new £65 million hub for science, engineering and the environment - our new home for physics. Led by sustainable design principles, the building is 100% electric powered, and offers unrivalled teaching, learning and research facilities alongside exciting new spaces for industry collaboration.

Features
• Accredited by the Institute of Physics
• Expand your knowledge and understanding in mechanics, quantum physics, electromagnetism and more
• Build analytical, numerical and computer-based problem-solving skills in Maxwell’s Equations and Wave Optics
• Explore classical dynamics, static and dynamic charges, quantum mechanics, fundamentals of relativity and atomic and nuclear physics
• Learn the importance of mathematics in a quantitative description of physics, using symbolic computing and programming
• Experience computer laboratory sessions to apply numerical methods and techniques frequently encountered in physical and engineering challenges

Course Modules

Year One:

• Physics in Context
• Physics Laboratory 1
• Mathematics
• Modelling of Physical Systems
• Mechanics, Relativity and Quantum Physics
• Electricity, Magnetism and Light

Year Two:

• Electromagnetism
• Thermal Physics
• Waves and Optics
• Physics Laboratory 2
• Quantum Physics

Choose one option from:

• Principals of Acoustics
• Group Project in Physics
• University Wide Language Programme

Year Three:

• Project in Physics
• Nuclear and Particle Physics
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Physics Laboratory 3
• Astrophysics and Planetary Physics

You will be assessed through a combination of formats:

• Laboratory exercises
• Examinations
• Reports