Physics with Professional Placement (BSc)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Cardiff University

Program Overview

Cardiff’s BSc Physics with Professional Placement is perfect for students who want to combine rigorous scientific training with real-world industry experience.
You’ll study the fundamental laws of nature while spending a year working in a professional setting—ideal for those aiming to apply physics in sectors like technology, healthcare, energy, or data science.

Curriculum structure

Year 1: Building Core Foundations
You’ll start with Mechanics and Matter, Electricity, Magnetism and Waves, and Mathematical Methods for Physicists 1 & 2, which establish your understanding of classical physics and mathematical modelling. You’ll also take Experimental Physics and Computational Skills for Problem Solving, where you’ll gain hands-on lab experience and learn Python for scientific computing.

Year 2: Expanding into Modern Physics and Applications
This year introduces Introductory Quantum Mechanics, Thermal and Statistical Physics, and Introduction to Condensed Matter Physics. You’ll also study Scientific Programming, Optics, and Physics in Action: Real-World Problem Solving, which connects theory to practical challenges. Lab work continues with Intermediate Practical Physics, and you’ll choose one optional module to tailor your interests.

Year 3: Professional Placement Year
You’ll spend this year working full-time in a physics-related role within industry, research, or government. Cardiff’s School of Physics and Astronomy helps you secure placements with organisations across the UK and beyond, giving you valuable experience and professional insight.

Year 4: Advanced Topics and Independent Research
Returning to Cardiff, you’ll study Atomic and Nuclear Physics, Solid State Physics, and Particle Physics and Special Relativity. You’ll also complete a 30-credit Physics Project, where you’ll conduct independent research and present your findings. Optional modules include Radiation Protection and Diagnostic Radiology Physics.

Focus areas: quantum mechanics, condensed matter, statistical physics, nuclear physics, optics, scientific computing
Learning outcomes: apply theoretical and computational methods to physical problems; conduct experiments; analyse data; communicate scientific ideas; collaborate in professional environments
Professional alignment (accreditation): accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP)
Reputation (employability rankings):

1st in the Russell Group for teaching, learning opportunities, and academic support in Physics (NSS 2024)
8th in the UK for Physics (The Guardian University Guide 2025)
95% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Cardiff’s BSc Physics with Professional Placement gives students the chance to combine rigorous scientific training with real-world industry experience.
From day one, you’ll build practical lab and coding skills, and in your third year, you’ll step into a full-time physics-related role—applying your knowledge in a professional setting and gaining career-defining experience.

Here’s how Cardiff delivers experiential learning for this program:

Experimental Physics (Year 1): Develops core lab skills in measurement, error analysis, and data interpretation using modern equipment.
Computational Skills for Problem Solving: Introduces programming and numerical methods using Python, preparing students for simulation and modelling tasks.
Intermediate Practical Physics (Year 2): Expands lab experience with more complex experiments in optics, quantum mechanics, and condensed matter.
Physics in Action: Real-World Problem Solving: Connects theory to application through group-based challenges and case studies.
Scientific Programming: Builds proficiency in coding and algorithmic thinking for physics applications.
Professional Placement Year (Year 3): Students work full-time in a physics-related role within industry, research, or government. Cardiff supports placements with organisations across the UK and beyond.
Final-Year Physics Project: A 30-credit independent research project where students investigate a topic of their choice, often using Cardiff’s specialist facilities.
Libraries and Study Spaces: Access to the Science Library and dedicated physics study areas within the School of Physics and Astronomy.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Cardiff’s BSc Physics with Professional Placement leave with both academic depth and real-world experience—making them highly competitive across science, tech, and data-driven industries.
Typical roles include research scientist, software developer, medical physicist, and data analyst. The professional placement year gives students a head start in building networks and applying their skills in live settings. Here’s how Cardiff supports your future success:

Careers and Employability Service: Offers physics-specific career planning, CV support, and employer networking through the School of Physics and Astronomy.
Graduate Outcomes: 95% of Cardiff physics graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22).
Industry Connections: Cardiff’s research links include the UK Atomic Energy Authority, CERN, and the European Space Agency, giving students exposure to real-world science and innovation.
Accreditation Value: The degree is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), supporting your path to Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status.
Placement Support: Cardiff helps students secure placements with organisations across the UK and internationally, including roles in research labs, healthcare, and engineering firms.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often continue with MSc or PhD study in areas like theoretical physics, medical physics, quantum technologies, or data science. Cardiff offers a range of postgraduate options, including research-led MSc programs and doctoral training partnerships.