BSc in Physics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Durham University

Program Overview

Durham’s BSc Physics (F300) is a flexible, research-led degree designed for students who want to explore the laws of nature and apply them to real-world challenges.
It’s ideal for curious thinkers who enjoy mathematics, experimentation, and problem-solving. You’ll study core physics topics like quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism, while developing practical lab skills, programming fluency, and data analysis expertise.

Curriculum structure

Year 1: Building Foundations in Physics and Mathematics
You’ll begin with Foundations of Physics, which introduces Newtonian mechanics, wave phenomena, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, special relativity, and optical physics. In Discovery Skills in Physics, you’ll develop lab techniques, data analysis, and communication skills, including an introduction to programming. You’ll also take two compulsory maths modules — Single Mathematics and Linear Algebra or Calculus — to support your physics learning.

Year 2: Expanding Theoretical and Practical Expertise
Second year deepens your understanding through Foundations of Physics A and B, covering quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, condensed matter physics, and optics. Mathematical Methods in Physics equips you with advanced tools like multivariable calculus, Fourier analysis, and differential equations. In Laboratory Skills and Electronics, you’ll gain hands-on experience in experiment planning, electronics, computational physics, and scientific communication.

Year 3: Specialisation and Independent Research
Your final year includes advanced modules like Foundations of Physics A and B, which extend into nuclear and particle physics, statistical physics, and condensed matter. You’ll complete a Computing Project using modern computational techniques, and a BSc Project — an independent research study presented as a 5,000-word report and oral presentation. Optional modules include Modern Atomic and Optical Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, Planets and Cosmology, and Physics into Schools.

Focus areas:
Quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, condensed matter physics, nuclear physics, computational physics

Learning outcomes:
Mathematical modelling, programming, lab experimentation, data analysis, scientific communication, independent research

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) — meets the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status

Reputation (employability rankings):

Top 5 in the UK for physics (The Times and Guardian University Guides 2026)
3rd in the UK for physics (Complete University Guide 2026)
University of the Year (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in Durham’s BSc Physics (F300) program gain practical experience through hands-on lab work, computational projects, and independent research — all supported by world-class facilities and expert-led teaching. From your first year, you’ll use professional-grade equipment and software to explore everything from quantum mechanics to electronics, while developing the technical and analytical skills that employers and researchers demand.

Here’s how Durham brings physics to life:

Discovery Skills in Physics: First-year module focused on lab techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication, including programming and group work.
Laboratory Skills and Electronics: Second-year module where students design and carry out experiments, build electronic circuits, and use computational tools for data modelling.
Computing Project: Final-year module using modern software and simulation tools to solve physics problems — ideal preparation for careers in data science or research.
BSc Research Project: Independent investigation supervised by academic staff, culminating in a formal report and presentation.
Dedicated Physics Laboratories: Located in the Rochester Building, equipped for optics, electronics, and condensed matter experiments.
Institute for Particle Physics Phenomenology (IPPP): Offers research opportunities and seminars for students interested in theoretical physics and particle modelling.
Durham University Library: Access to thousands of physics journals, e-books, and specialist databases, plus subject-specific study support.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Durham’s BSc Physics (F300) are highly sought after for their analytical thinking, programming fluency, and hands-on research experience. Many go on to roles such as data scientist, research physicist, software developer, or technical consultant, with employers valuing their ability to model complex systems and solve real-world problems.

Here’s how Durham supports your future:

Careers & Enterprise Centre: Offers tailored support for physics students, including one-to-one career coaching, employer events, and access to internships through the Durham Internships & Collaborative Enterprise (DICE) scheme.
Graduate Outcomes: 91% of Durham physics graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.
Salary Potential: Physics graduates from Durham earn an average starting salary of £30,000–£35,000, with higher earnings in finance, tech, and engineering.
Industry Partnerships: Students benefit from links with organisations such as Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, IBM, and the UK Atomic Energy Authority, especially through final-year projects and research collaborations.
Accreditation Value: The BSc is Institute of Physics-accredited, meeting the full educational requirement for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status — a globally respected professional credential.
Graduate Destinations: Alumni work at CERN, NASA, Google, Dyson, and leading universities and research institutes across the UK and internationally.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are well-prepared for MSc or PhD programs in theoretical physics, quantum technologies, astrophysics, or computational modelling. Durham offers advanced postgraduate options in these areas, and the BSc provides the academic and research foundation needed for competitive entry into graduate study.