MPhys Particle Physics with a Research Year Abroad

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Southampton

Program Overview

Southampton’s MPhys Particle Physics with Research Year Abroad is the only UK physics degree offering a full-year placement at CERN — the world’s leading particle physics laboratory. It’s designed for top-performing students who want to combine advanced theoretical study with hands-on research at the Large Hadron Collider.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You’ll build a strong foundation in core physics and mathematics, studying modules like Classical Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, and Mathematics for Physicists. You’ll also begin exploring Relativity and Quantum Physics, and develop lab skills through Physics Laboratory I.

Year 2
This year deepens your understanding of Quantum Physics, Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics, and Waves and Optics. You’ll study Atomic Physics and Nuclear Physics, and continue developing experimental and computational skills in Physics Laboratory II.

Year 3
You’ll specialise in advanced particle physics topics, including Quantum Mechanics III, Electromagnetism III, and Nuclear and Particle Physics. You’ll also prepare for your CERN placement through research training and project planning.

Year 4 (Research Year Abroad)
You’ll spend the entire year at CERN in Geneva, working with international teams on experiments such as ATLAS, CMS, or LHCb. You’ll contribute to cutting-edge research — from Higgs boson studies to antimatter investigations — and complete a major research project recognised by institutions worldwide.

Focus areas

Particle physics, quantum mechanics, nuclear physics, experimental physics, research methods, cosmology.

Learning outcomes

Graduates master advanced theoretical and experimental physics, data analysis, scientific computing, and collaborative research — ready for careers in academia, aerospace, or high-tech industries.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), supporting Chartered Physicist status and recognised by employers globally.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Southampton is the only UK university offering a full-year CERN placement. 90% of physics graduates are in work or further study within 15 months. The program is taught by researchers involved in CERN collaborations and LHC experiments.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Southampton’s MPhys Particle Physics with Research Year Abroad gives you extraordinary access to world-class facilities — including a full-year placement at CERN, the world’s leading particle physics lab. You’ll gain hands-on experience in experimental physics, data analysis, and collaborative research, working alongside international scientists on real experiments at the Large Hadron Collider.

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

Year-long CERN placement in Geneva, where students contribute to major experiments like ATLAS, CMS, or LHCb, gaining experience in detector physics, data acquisition, and particle tracking.
Physics Laboratory I & II at Southampton, where students develop core experimental skills in mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, and quantum physics.
Final Year Research Project conducted at CERN, supervised jointly by Southampton academics and CERN scientists.
Access to the STAG research centre (Southampton Theory, Astronomy and Gravitation), a global leader in particle physics and cosmology.
Advanced computational tools and software used in modules like Quantum Mechanics III and Electromagnetism III, supporting simulation and analysis.
Opportunities to attend seminars and workshops hosted by visiting researchers and CERN collaborators.
Hartley Library and Highfield Campus study spaces, offering extensive physics resources and quiet zones for research and revision.

This is where theory meets the frontier of discovery — and where you’ll build the skills to thrive in global research and innovation.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Southampton’s MPhys Particle Physics with Research Year Abroad are uniquely positioned for careers in global research, high-tech industries, and data-intensive roles. With hands-on experience at CERN and deep expertise in quantum mechanics and particle physics, they go on to roles such as research physicist, data scientist, software engineer, and aerospace analyst.

Here’s how Southampton supports your future progression:

Careers and Employability Service offers tailored support including career mentoring, employer networking events, and access to the MyCareer portal for internships and graduate roles.
90% of Southampton physics graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, according to Graduate Outcomes data.
Exclusive partnership with CERN, offering a full-year research placement — unmatched by any other UK physics degree.
Institute of Physics (IOP) accreditation ensures your degree meets national professional standards and supports Chartered Physicist status.
Graduation outcomes include strong placement in postgraduate research, international labs, and industries like aerospace, defence, and computing.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MPhys, students can pursue PhD research in areas such as particle physics, quantum field theory, cosmology, or detector development. Southampton offers funded doctoral opportunities and access to global collaborations through its STAG research centre and CERN links.