Chemical Physics BSc (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

If you're fascinated by the overlap between chemistry and physics — from atomic interactions to smart materials and renewable energy — this interdisciplinary degree is built for you. The BSc Chemical Physics combines rigorous training in both subjects, preparing you to tackle global challenges through science and innovation.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You’ll build a strong foundation in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. You’ll take the same introductory chemistry course as other chemistry students, alongside Mathematics for Physics 1 and physics modules taught by the School of Physics and Astronomy. Weekly lab sessions in both chemistry and physics give you hands-on experience from the start.

Year 2
Your second year deepens your core knowledge with advanced chemistry, physics, and mathematics modules. You’ll also choose between Programming and Data Analysis or Experimental Physics 2, depending on your interests. Lab work continues in Chemistry 2 and Practical Physics, with a focus on experimental design and data interpretation.

Year 3
You’ll take a modified version of Year 3 chemistry courses, focusing on Physical Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry. These modules are tailored to chemical physics students, ensuring you gain the depth needed for advanced study while maintaining interdisciplinary breadth.

Year 4
In your final year, you’ll study advanced topics in both chemistry and physics and complete a research project in either the School of Chemistry or the School of Physics and Astronomy. Alternatively, you can opt for a science education project, ideal for those considering a future in teaching.

Focus areas

Atomic and molecular physics, physical and inorganic chemistry, condensed matter, smart materials, renewable energy, and data analysis.

Learning outcomes

Graduates will master experimental and analytical techniques, develop strong mathematical and computational skills, and gain experience in interdisciplinary research and scientific communication.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This program is accredited by both the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and the Institute of Physics (IoP), partially fulfilling the academic requirements for Chartered Chemist (CChem) and Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Ranked 6th in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2025 and 7th in The Times Good University Guide 2025, with a strong track record in student satisfaction and graduate outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program is all about applying theory to real-world challenges — and you’ll be doing that from day one. Through a blend of lab work, research projects, and digital tools, you’ll gain hands-on experience in both chemistry and physics, learning how to design experiments, interpret data, and communicate scientific ideas effectively. Whether you're working with lasers, modelling molecular systems, or presenting your findings, you’ll be developing the practical skills that employers and researchers value most.

Here’s how Edinburgh brings chemical physics to life:

Weekly laboratory sessions in both chemistry and physics during Years 1 and 2, including hands-on training in the Nucleus Building at King’s Buildings campus
Programming and Data Analysis or Experimental Physics 2 in Year 2, offering experience in coding and data interpretation
Final-year research project in either the School of Chemistry or the School of Physics and Astronomy — or a science education project for those interested in teaching
Access to research laboratories, university libraries, and computing facilities throughout the program
Training in communication and collaboration, including formal presentations, report writing, and teamwork
Exposure to scientific information retrieval tools, helping you navigate databases and journals like a professional researcher
Student societies like ChemSoc and PhysSoc offer academic talks, observatory tours, and peer mentoring through Chemistry Academic Families (CAcFams)

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program are highly sought after for their interdisciplinary expertise, combining deep knowledge of chemistry and physics with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Many go on to careers as materials scientists, data analysts, research chemists, or quantitative consultants, working in sectors from energy and pharmaceuticals to finance and technology.

Here’s how Edinburgh helps you take the next step:

Careers Service offers tailored support including one-to-one guidance, employer events, and access to internships and graduate schemes
Strong graduate outcomes: 90% of School of Chemistry graduates are in work or further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
Industry links with companies like GSK, Johnson Matthey, and the National Physical Laboratory support research and career pathways
Accreditation by both the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Institute of Physics provides a pathway to Chartered Chemist (CChem) and Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status
Research-led teaching and final-year project prepare students for roles in R&D, data science, and applied physics

Further Academic Progression:
Many graduates continue with a master’s or PhD in chemical physics, materials science, nanotechnology, or quantum chemistry — at Edinburgh or other world-leading institutions. The program’s strong research foundation and interdisciplinary focus make it an ideal launchpad for advanced study.