MSc Applied Physics
Key details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Master of Science
- Course Length
- 1 year
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
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Course Overview
Why MSc Applied Physics at UEA?
This MSc is ideal for physics graduates ready to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. It also suits maths or engineering graduates looking to move into physics.
Why choose UEA
- Interdisciplinary focus: Explore how physics overlaps with other disciplines across UEA and the Norwich Research Park
- Flexible degree: Choose from a wide range of optional modules to shape your studies
- Different pathways: Choose to specialise in advanced physics and applied mathematics, or real-world applications
What is MSc Applied Physics?
Broaden your physics knowledge and skills, rather than specialising straight away. Alongside advanced study, you’ll explore physics in a range of settings, building a flexible skillset for your future.
A year-long research project gives you the chance to investigate a cutting-edge topic matched to your interests and UEA’s expertise. With one-to-one academic supervision, you’ll develop confidence, independence, and valuable transferable skills.
You’ll also choose from a wide range of optional modules, many linking physics with other disciplines. This means you can shape your MSc around your background, ambitions, and future goals.
Careers
Career Pathways
With an MSc in Applied Physics, you could launch a career as a:
- PhD Researcher: Continue into doctoral study in physics or a related scientific field
- Healthcare Scientist: Apply scientific expertise in NHS laboratories, imaging, or clinical technology settings
- Research Scientist: Conduct research in industry, technology, or applied science organisations
- Operational Research Analyst: Use data and modelling to improve organisational decisions and efficiency
- Science Journalist: Communicate scientific discoveries to public audiences through media and publishing
Career Support
This course has a strong vocational focus. You'll be exposed to a range of different physics-related career pathways. Through your year-long research project you'll build transferrable skills and knowledge with real-world applications. Finally, you'll be supported by UEA’s Career Central during your degree and for three years after graduation.
After the Course
You'll graduate with a highly competitive skill set and a broad understanding of physics-related careers, helping you secure a rewarding PhD position or another research-related role. Your skills will also be transferrable to a range of other sectors, such as business, finance, engineering, or teaching.
Study and Modules
Structure
This flexible MSc welcomes Physics graduates, as well as students from related STEM subjects such as Maths and Engineering. With a choice of optional modules and research project directions, you can shape the course around your background and ambitions.
Whatever your module choices, you’ll build a strong foundation in graduate-level physics while developing advanced research skills. You’ll also gain a clearer understanding of the many career routes your physics knowledge can support, from research to applied industry roles.
Your research project makes up one third of your final mark, with the remaining two thirds coming from taught modules.
When choosing your modules and research topic, you’ll be supported by your academic adviser. This tailored guidance helps make the programme accessible to graduates from other STEM subjects.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 100)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
Your research project will involve a significant element of independent study, supported by one-to-one meetings with your supervisor. Other modules are taught through a range of methods including lectures, workshops, and seminars.
Assessment
This course uses a range of assessment methods. Your research project module is assessed through an oral presentation and a written dissertation. The other compulsory module is assessed through a written portfolio and reflective essay. Many of the optional modules involve written coursework, and some also include examinations.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
Degree classification
Bachelors degree - 2.2
Degree Subject
Physics, Maths or Engineering. Other STEM degrees will be considered.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
Degree classification
UK Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent
Degree Subject
Physics, Maths or Engineering. Other STEM degrees will be considered.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component.
Test dates should be within 2 years of the course start date.
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offers a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills.(opens in a new window)
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- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2026/27 are:
- UK Students: £12,350
- International Students: £25,700
If you choose to study part-time, the fee per annum will be half the annual fee for that year, or a pro-rata fee for the module credit you are taking (only available for Home students).
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships(opens in a new window); please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see additional course fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
How to apply
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form(opens in a new window).
Application deadline
International applicants and non UK Nationals may require an ATAS certificate, depending on individual circumstances. In order to allow sufficient time to apply and receive an ATAS certificate, international applications will close on 10/07/2026.
Further information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us:
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk(opens in a new window)
International candidates are also encouraged to access the International Students(opens in a new window) section of our website.