MPhys Physics with Industrial Placement

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Heriot Watt University Edinburgh

Program Overview

Heriot-Watt’s MPhys in Physics with Industrial Placement is perfect for students who want to combine advanced scientific training with real-world experience in cutting-edge industries. It suits ambitious learners aiming for careers in research, technology, or engineering — with the added advantage of a year-long placement built into the degree.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
You’ll start with core modules like Mechanics, Fields and Forces, Waves and Particles, and Mathematics for Scientists 1. You’ll also take Introduction to Programming, where you’ll begin using Python to solve physics problems and build simulations.

Year 2:
This year deepens your understanding of electromagnetism, quantum theory, and thermodynamics. You’ll study Electricity and Magnetism, Quantum Theory and Thermodynamics, and Mathematics for Scientists 2, while continuing hands-on lab work and computational modelling.

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

Year 4 (Industrial Placement):
You’ll spend the year working full-time in a physics-related role with one of Heriot-Watt’s partner organisations. This placement gives you direct experience in applying your skills to real-world challenges — from quantum technologies to renewable energy systems.

Year 5 (Master’s Year):
You’ll return to campus to study specialist modules like Quantum Mechanics, Atomic and Nuclear Physics, and Fibre Optic Communications. The MPhys Project is a substantial research undertaking, often aligned with Heriot-Watt’s active research groups in photonics and quantum science.

Focus areas

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

Learning outcomes

Apply physics in real-world settings, conduct advanced research, model and simulate physical systems, communicate scientific findings

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 with Industrial Placement gives you the best of both worlds — deep academic training and a full year of real-world experience. From your first year, you’ll be working in labs, coding in Python, and preparing for a paid placement with one of the university’s industry partners.

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
Industrial Placement (Year 4): Spend a full year working in a physics-related role with one of Heriot-Watt’s partner organisations — gaining hands-on experience in sectors like quantum technologies, photonics, or energy
MPhys Project (Year 5): Undertake a major research project aligned with cutting-edge topics such as quantum optics, advanced photonics, or computational physics
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

Graduates of Heriot-Watt’s MPhys Physics with Industrial Placement are uniquely positioned for high-impact careers — combining deep academic expertise with a full year of real-world experience. Employers value their technical skills, research training, and proven ability to apply physics in industry settings.

Typical roles include quantum physicist, photonics engineer, data scientist, and industrial researcher. Here’s how Heriot-Watt helps you get there:

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: Placement opportunities with organisations linked to the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPAQS), James Watt Nanofabrication Centre, and UKRI
Long-Term Accreditation Value: Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) — meets academic requirements for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status
Industrial Placement (Year 4): A full year working in a physics-related role, gaining hands-on experience and building professional networks

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.