MPhys Physics

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Heriot Watt University Edinburgh

Program Overview

Heriot-Watt’s MPhys in Physics is designed for students who want to go beyond the fundamentals and dive deep into advanced topics like quantum technologies, photonics, and computational modelling. It suits ambitious learners aiming for research careers or technical leadership in science and engineering.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
You’ll build a strong foundation in classical physics and mathematics through modules like Mechanics, Fields and Forces, Waves and Particles, and Mathematics for Scientists 1. You’ll also begin coding in Python with Introduction to Programming, applying computational thinking to physical problems.

Year 2:
This year introduces core theoretical frameworks including Electricity and Magnetism, Quantum Theory and Thermodynamics, and Mathematics for Scientists 2. You’ll also gain hands-on lab experience and continue developing your coding skills through practical assignments and simulations.

Year 3:
You’ll explore advanced modules such as Solid State Physics, Lasers and Photonics, and Statistical Mechanics. The Physics Project allows you to conduct independent research, while Numerical Methods strengthens your ability to model physical systems computationally.

Year 4:
You’ll tackle specialist topics like Quantum Mechanics, Atomic and Nuclear Physics, and Fibre Optic Communications. The Honours Project is a major research component, often linked to Heriot-Watt’s active research groups in photonics and quantum science.

Year 5 (Integrated Master’s year):
You’ll deepen your expertise in areas such as Advanced Photonics, Quantum Optics, and Computational Physics. The MPhys Project is a substantial research undertaking, preparing you for PhD-level study or high-level industry roles.

Focus areas

Quantum mechanics, photonics, fibre optics, computational physics, atomic and nuclear physics

Learning outcomes

Design and conduct advanced research, apply computational and experimental methods, model complex physical systems

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) — meets academic requirements for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status

Reputation (employability rankings)

1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for graduate employability (Heriot-Watt Graduate Outcomes, 2023)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Heriot-Watt’s MPhys Physics students gain deep practical experience through advanced lab work, computational modelling, and extended research projects — all supported by world-class facilities and active research institutes. From your first year, you’ll be coding in Python, working with lasers and photonics equipment, and collaborating with faculty on real scientific investigations.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into the program:

Introduction to Programming (Year 1): Learn Python to solve physics problems and build simulations
Experimental Physics Labs: Apply theory in modules like Mechanics, Fields and Forces and Electricity and Magnetism using industry-standard lab equipment
Numerical Methods (Year 3): Use computational tools to model physical systems and analyse data
Physics Project (Year 3): Conduct independent research under faculty supervision — often linked to Heriot-Watt’s active research groups
Honours Project (Year 4): Tackle a substantial research challenge in areas like photonics, quantum mechanics, or fibre optics
MPhys Project (Year 5): Undertake a major research project aligned with cutting-edge topics such as quantum optics or advanced photonics
James Watt Nanofabrication Centre: Access world-class facilities for nanophotonics and materials research
Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPAQS): Engage with interdisciplinary research and industry collaborations
Heriot-Watt Library and Learning Commons: 24/7 access to scientific journals, collaborative workspaces, and digital resources

Progression & Future Opportunities

Heriot-Watt MPhys Physics graduates are equipped for high-level careers in research, technology, and innovation — with deep expertise in quantum science, photonics, and computational modelling.

This degree prepares you for roles such as quantum physicist, photonics engineer, data scientist, and research analyst. Employers value the extended research training, advanced lab experience, and Python-based modelling that define this integrated master’s program.

Here’s how Heriot-Watt supports your future success:

Careers and Graduate Futures Service: Offers tailored support including CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, and access to the Handshake platform for global job opportunities
Graduate Outcomes: 1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for graduate employability (Heriot-Watt Graduate Outcomes, 2023)
Industry Partnerships: Strong links with the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPAQS), James Watt Nanofabrication Centre, and UKRI — supporting internships and collaborative research
Long-Term Accreditation Value: Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) — meets academic requirements for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status
MPhys Project (Year 5): A substantial research undertaking aligned with cutting-edge topics such as quantum optics, advanced photonics, or computational physics

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are well-prepared for PhD-level study in physics, quantum technologies, or photonics — either at Heriot-Watt or other leading institutions. The MPhys also provides a strong foundation for interdisciplinary doctoral research in engineering, materials science, or computational modelling.