MPhys Physics with Biophysics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MPhys Biophysics at the University of Exeter is a four-year integrated Master’s degree that blends physics with biology to explore how physical principles underpin living systems. It suits students who want to apply advanced mathematical, computational, and experimental methods to areas such as molecular biology, neuroscience, and biomedical physics, preparing them for careers at the interface of science and healthcare.

Curriculum Structure

Year One

You’ll establish a strong foundation in physics and mathematics, studying modules such as Quantum Mechanics, Relativity, and Electromagnetism, alongside laboratory sessions and computing practicals. Weekly problem-solving classes and skills workshops ensure you gain confidence in applying theory to practice.

Year Two

This year develops your interdisciplinary expertise with modules like Condensed Matter Physics, Nuclear Physics, and Mathematical Methods, while expanding your laboratory and computational skills. You’ll also take part in Employability and Professional Skills Development II, preparing you for placements or research opportunities.

Year Three

You’ll focus on advanced biophysics modules such as Biological Physics and Neuroscience, while continuing with Employability and Professional Skills Development III. If you choose the Study Abroad or Professional Placement variant, this year may be spent overseas or in a salaried placement with organisations such as Renishaw, the Home Office, or Rutherford Appleton Laboratories.

Year Four

Your final year emphasises Master’s-level study, including modules such as Biomedical Physics and Molecular Biophysics. You’ll undertake a substantial independent research project, often linked to Exeter’s internationally recognised biophysics research groups, while completing Employability and Professional Skills Development IV.

Focus Areas

Biophysics, biomedical physics, neuroscience, molecular biology, condensed matter physics, computational modelling.

Learning Outcomes

Numeracy, advanced problem-solving, interdisciplinary research, computational modelling, teamwork, scientific communication, independent biophysics research.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), fulfilling requirements for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Exeter is ranked Top 15 in the UK for Physics and Astronomy (Guardian University Guide 2026).
94% of graduates are in or due to start employment/further study within 15 months (HESA Graduate Outcomes survey 2020/21).
Exeter is 12th in the Guardian University Guide 2026 and 11th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Experiential learning in the MPhys Biophysics at the University of Exeter is designed to give you hands-on experience at the intersection of physics and life sciences. You’ll gain practical skills through laboratory work, computational modelling, and interdisciplinary research projects, while also benefiting from Exeter’s outstanding facilities and opportunities for placements or study abroad. By combining experimentation with advanced digital tools and professional training, the program ensures you graduate with both technical expertise and workplace-ready skills.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded throughout the program:

Specialist laboratories: Access to Exeter’s Biophysics and Biomedical Physics labs, including facilities for optical characterisation, nanofabrication, and thin-film microfabrication, where you’ll work with cutting-edge equipment to study biological systems.
Computational tools: Use advanced modelling software and specialist computer facilities for simulations in molecular biophysics, neuroscience, and biomedical physics.
Group projects and teamwork: Collaborative assignments in physics and biophysics modules, plus professional skills development courses, build communication, presentation, and teamwork abilities.
Professional placements: Opportunities to spend a salaried year with organisations such as Renishaw, the Home Office, or Rutherford Appleton Laboratories, applying your biophysics knowledge in industry.
Study abroad: A chance to study at a partner university overseas, gaining international experience and exposure to different research cultures.
Research-led teaching: Final-year Master’s-level projects are often linked to Exeter’s internationally recognised biophysics research groups, giving you direct involvement in cutting-edge investigations.
Libraries and digital resources: Full access to the award-winning Forum Library and online journals, supporting independent study and collaborative research.
Institute connections: Accreditation by the Institute of Physics (IoP) ensures your training is aligned with professional standards and recognised worldwide.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MPhys Biophysics at the University of Exeter are uniquely positioned for careers at the intersection of physics, biology, and healthcare. With advanced skills in computational modelling, laboratory techniques, and interdisciplinary research, alumni often move into roles such as biomedical researcher, data scientist, medical technology consultant, or pharmaceutical analyst.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Your degree is designed to prepare you for both employment and further study:

University careers support: Exeter’s Career Zone offers tailored employability training, employer networking events, and internship opportunities, helping you connect with industries in healthcare, biotechnology, and data science.
Employment stats: Across Exeter Physics, 94% of graduates are in or due to start employment/further study within 15 months of graduation (HESA Graduate Outcomes survey 2020/21).
Industry partnerships: The program provides placement opportunities with organisations such as Renishaw, the Home Office, and Rutherford Appleton Laboratories, giving you direct industry experience.
Accreditation value: Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), fulfilling requirements for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status, ensuring long-term professional recognition.
Graduate outcomes: Alumni enter diverse fields including biomedical research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, IT and data science, and science communication, reflecting the versatility of biophysics training.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MPhys Biophysics, you’ll be well-prepared for PhD study in biophysics, biomedical physics, neuroscience, or interdisciplinary life sciences research, both at Exeter and internationally. Many graduates also pursue advanced research in areas such as molecular biophysics, biomedical imaging, or computational biology, supported by Exeter’s strong research culture and global collaborations.