MSci Hons Physics with Year Abroad

Students in Queen Mary’s MSci Physics with Year Abroad program develop advanced scientific skills while gaining global experience — making them uniquely prepared for research, innovation, and international careers. From your first year, you’ll work with real data, simulation tools, and advanced equipment, and in Year 4, you’ll study abroad at a partner university to broaden your academic and cultural perspective.

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

• Scientific Measurement & Investigation Skills: Lab-based modules in Years 1 and 2 develop your experimental technique, data analysis, and scientific reporting using industry-standard equipment.
• Year Abroad: In Year 4, you’ll study physics at a partner university overseas, supported by Queen Mary’s Global Opportunities Office. You’ll continue your academic progression while gaining international exposure and adapting to new research environments.
• Digital Tools: You’ll learn to code in Python and use simulation and modelling software across modules in computational physics and machine learning.
• Group Work & Communication: Modules like Professional Skills for Scientists include collaborative tasks, presentations, and scientific writing to prepare you for team-based environments.
• G.O. Jones Building: The £12m refurbished home of physics teaching and research, featuring advanced labs, computing suites, and the Mile End Observatory — used for undergraduate astrophysics training.
• Access to Research Institutes: Opportunities to engage with the Centre for Research in String Theory and other specialist groups within the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences.
• Libraries and Study Spaces: Queen Mary’s Mile End campus offers extensive resources including physics journals, e-books, and collaborative learning zones.

Graduates of Queen Mary’s MSci Physics with Year Abroad are exceptionally well-prepared for careers in research, technology, and global innovation — thanks to their advanced training and international experience.
Typical roles include research physicist, data scientist, software engineer, and AI developer, with many students progressing into PhD study or leadership roles in science and tech.

Here’s how Queen Mary supports your future:

• Global Opportunities Office: Supports your Year Abroad with academic planning, partner university selection, and cultural preparation.
• Careers and Enterprise Team: Offers tailored career coaching, employer networking events, and access to internships via QConsult and QMUL Work Experience schemes.
• Graduate Outcomes: Physics graduates from Queen Mary earn an average of £29,000 within 15 months of graduation.
• Industry Partnerships: The School of Physical and Chemical Sciences collaborates with global research centres and companies through SEPnet, offering placements, employer-led events, and research opportunities.
• Accreditation Value: Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) — meets the full educational requirement for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status.
• Graduate Destinations: Alumni work in scientific computing, aerospace, fintech, and postgraduate research across the UK and internationally.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSci, students are ideally positioned to pursue PhD programs in theoretical physics, quantum field theory, astrophysics, or AI. The fifth-year research project and advanced modules provide a strong foundation for doctoral research, and Queen Mary’s active research groups offer direct pathways into funded PhD opportunities.