Physics with a Foundation Year

Gain the scientific background needed for a physics degree with our foundation year course. Study the laws that shape the Universe and gain the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to progress onto our MPhys degree courses.

This MPhys Physics with a Foundation Year course will give you the skills and knowledge you’ll need for a successful career.

If you don't have the usual scientific or mathematical background for a physics degree, then our five-year MPhys Physics with a Foundation Year course is exactly the place to begin. Successful completion of your foundation year, with an average mark of 60 or above, guarantees you entry onto our MPhys physics degrees.

The foundation year explores a broad spectrum of modules in chemistry, physics and mathematics. In addition to this, you’ll develop practical skills, learning how to implement a range of measurement techniques, use appropriate graphing and statistical techniques, and draw valid conclusions. You’ll also gain experience of organising your time, working in a group, and communicating information verbally and in writing.

After transitioning from the foundation year to one of our accredited physics degrees, you’ll explore the extraordinary scale of the field of physics through a range of in-depth modules. You’ll gain hands-on experience in our specialist teaching lab and take part in programming classes. From your third year, you’ll also have the freedom to choose from a variety of optional modules.

In your final year, you’ll develop your advanced research skills through a year-long research project. You’ll work with academic researchers who are experts in their field to investigate a real scientific question, developing skills that are valuable in a variety of graduate careers across research or industry.

Why study this course?

• 1st in the Russell Group for learning opportunities and learning resources in physics - National Student Survey 2025

• 1st in the UK for the quality of physics research - Research Excellence Framework 2021.