Physics

From exploring the core principles to solving real‑world physics challenges, our accredited Physics BSc at Keele explores dynamic topics across the full breadth of the subject and deepens your understanding of how the physical world works. With practical, mathematical and analytical skills embedded throughout the curriculum, and opportunities to apply your knowledge in laboratory, computational and problem‑solving contexts, you will graduate with a versatile toolkit suited to a wide range of careers.

Why choose this course?

• Physics ranked Top 10 in England (NSS 2025, broad-based universities)*

• Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP)

• Explore frontier topics guided by our world-leading researchers

• Gain the problem-solving, experimental, programming and teamworking skills that are highly valued by employers in a broad range of sectors

• Undertake a research project and professional development activities in preparation for academic research and industry roles

In your first year you will gain a solid grounding in the fundamentals of physics, including gravitation, relativity and matter, electricity, magnetism and waves. You will also begin to develop the skills and practical experience that underpin this programme, including computer programming with python, laboratory work, mathematical skills required to understand and analyse physical phenomena, and the arts of problem-solving and scientific writing.

Year two continues to build on your understanding of physics principles with exploration of optics, quantum mechanics and nuclear physics. You will further your laboratory, mathematics, computing and career skills by working on individual experiments and team investigations, building your CV and gaining important new applied mathematical skills. A specialist module in applied physics will explore new applications in breakthrough scientific areas and emerging industries, that may play a significant role in the 21st century.

In your final year, you will undertake a substantial piece of meaningful research on a topic which aligns with your interests and career goals. The research project provides the opportunity for you to pursue a self-directed, independent investigation of an experimental, computational or theoretical nature. With the guidance of a supervisor, you will plan, execute and report your results, including a presentation aimed at potential employers.
You will further deepen your expertise through advanced modules in electromagnetism, solid-state physics, and quantum mechanics, while also enhancing your teamwork and project management skills by working on a group report that tackles a real-world issue, aimed at policy-makers.

About Keele

Keele University was established in 1949 by the former Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. Founded to meet the needs of a changing world, Keele has always had a pioneering vision to be a different kind of university.

We excel in both teaching and research, with some of the most satisfied students in England, and research that is changing lives for the better at a regional, national and global level.

Our beautiful 600-acre campus is one of the biggest in Britain – but all the most important services and facilities are on your doorstep, with accommodation, teaching spaces, facilities including a medical centre, sports centre and pharmacy, and a range of shops, eateries and entertainment venues – including the Students’ Union – clustered around the centre. Undertake a research project and professional development activities in preparation for academic research and industry roles.

*We have compared the positivity ratings of all participating UK institutions using the NSS 2025 sector data to determine Keele's position relative to other broad-based universities (i.e. excluding specialist institutions and further education colleges).

Course Modules

For a list of indicative modules please visit the course page on the Keele University website.