BEng Engineering Physics with integrated year in industry

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Aberystwyth University

Program Overview

Aberystwyth’s BEng Engineering Physics with Integrated Year in Industry blends the precision of physics with the creativity of engineering — preparing you to solve real-world problems in space science, robotics, and quantum technology.

This program suits students who enjoy hands-on experimentation, mathematical modelling, and designing innovative systems. You’ll study everything from classical dynamics and microelectronics to space instrumentation and photonics, with a full year working in industry to apply your skills in a professional setting.

Curriculum structure

Year 1: Building Scientific and Technical Foundations
You’ll start with Mathematics for Physicists, Classical Dynamics, and Thermal and Quantum Physics, gaining a strong grasp of mechanics, thermodynamics, and quantum principles. Modules like Laboratory Physics and Introduction to Programming develop your practical and coding skills, while Fundamentals of Engineering Mechanics introduces core design concepts.

Year 2: Applied Physics and Engineering Design
This year deepens your understanding through Electromagnetism and Optoelectronics, Solid State Physics, and Engineering Design and Materials Selection. You’ll also take Laboratory Physics and Programming to enhance your experimental and computational abilities, and Mathematical Methods to support advanced problem-solving.

Year 3: Integrated Year in Industry
You’ll spend this year working with an approved employer in a physics or engineering-related role. This experience helps you apply your academic knowledge in a real-world setting, develop professional skills, and build industry connections.

Year 4: Advanced Topics and Final Project
In your final year, you’ll explore Applied Photonics, Space Instrumentation, and Robotics and Control, alongside a supervised Major Project that showcases your research and design abilities. This capstone year brings together everything you’ve learned, preparing you for graduate roles or further study.

Focus areas

Photonics, quantum technology, robotics, space instrumentation, materials design, microelectronics

Learning outcomes

Engineering design, experimental physics, programming, numerical modelling, instrumentation, teamwork, research

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), supporting progression toward Chartered Physicist (CPhys) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status

Reputation (employability rankings)

Aberystwyth University ranks in the top 5 in the UK for student satisfaction in Physics and Astronomy (NSS 2022)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Aberystwyth’s BEng Engineering Physics with Integrated Year in Industry is all about learning by doing — from lab experiments and coding to real-world engineering placements.

You’ll gain practical skills in optics, electronics, robotics, and instrumentation, using professional tools and working in specialist facilities. The integrated year in industry gives you the chance to apply your knowledge in a professional setting, build your CV, and make valuable industry connections. Here’s how experiential learning is built into the program:

Laboratory Physics modules in Years 1 and 2 develop hands-on skills in experimental design, measurement, and analysis.
Programming modules introduce Python and numerical modelling for engineering and physics applications.
Engineering Design and Materials Selection includes team-based projects using CAD and simulation tools.
Robotics and Control and Space Instrumentation offer practical experience with sensors, actuators, and embedded systems.
Integrated Year in Industry places students with approved employers in engineering or physics-related roles, offering real-world experience and professional development.
Major Project in Year 4 allows students to conduct supervised research using Aberystwyth’s specialist equipment.
Access to Physics and Engineering Laboratories, equipped for photonics, quantum technology, and microelectronics.
University Library and Digital Learning Environment (Blackboard) support research, collaboration, and access to specialist databases.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Aberystwyth’s BEng Engineering Physics with Integrated Year in Industry are highly valued for their ability to apply physics in real-world engineering contexts — from robotics and quantum systems to aerospace and instrumentation.

Typical career paths include systems engineer, instrumentation physicist, robotics developer, and aerospace technologist. With a full year of industry experience and strong technical training, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact. Here’s how Aberystwyth supports your future success:

Careers Service provides tailored support including CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, and access to the AberForward internship scheme.
Physics graduates from Aberystwyth enjoy strong employability, with many entering roles in engineering, software, and applied research.
Industry partnerships include placements and collaborations with engineering firms, research labs, and space-related organisations during the integrated year.
Institute of Physics (IOP) accreditation supports long-term career progression toward Chartered Physicist (CPhys) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Graduation outcomes include roles in aerospace, robotics, quantum systems, and software development, with employers ranging from space agencies to high-tech companies.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BEng, students can pursue a PhD in Engineering Physics, Quantum Technology, or Space Science at Aberystwyth or other leading institutions. The university offers postgraduate research opportunities through its active physics research groups and specialist facilities.