BSc (Hons) Physics with a Year Abroad
Course
options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- F30A
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
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Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Studying abroad is a fantastic life experience, and you can combine this with a highly flexible BSc Physics degree. Our BSc Physics with a Year Abroad degree is a highly flexible course directly influenced by the research taking place at UEA.
You'll begin with the first two years of the standard BSc route, where you'll get to explore a wide range of subjects, including astrophysics, quantum physics, geophysics, fluid mechanics and computing. Following that, you'll move abroad to your international year, learning Physics at a Higher Education institution overseas and getting a deeper knowledge of the subject and the new skills and experiences that come from international study. Finally, you'll return to UEA for the final year of your degree.
Our four-year degree programme introduces you to many of the major themes in physics in your first year, before providing more advanced teaching in the subsequent years, when you can specialise in a particular field. Your course will end in a final year project, giving you the chance to research a topic that interests you most. It could be in line with the research taking place at UEA or an idea you have in mind.
You’ll use our top-class laboratories and high-tech equipment. Through experiments, you’ll gain a practical understanding of the subjects, and you’ll find them even more fascinating.
By the time you graduate, you’ll have skills that are much in demand by employers. You'll excel in analytical problem-solving, data analysis, and solid research techniques. You’ll be ready to set foot on a career as a professional scientist or work in finance, high-tech start-up companies, or science-based industries.
Year Abroad
On this four-year degree programme, you’ll study overseas for a year at one of a broad range of partner universities in North America, Europe, Australia, or Asia. Here you’ll study advanced level modules from the core subjects as well as some elective modules to suit your interests.
You’ll be able to choose modules from the partner institution in consultation with your adviser or Course Director. It’s also a fantastic chance to show future employers you have what it takes to succeed in an international setting.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section pages.
Study and Modules
Structure
The first year will introduce you to many of the major themes in physics and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Your first year will consist of six compulsory modules, giving you a solid grounding in a wide range of topics. You’ll be introduced to key physics concepts, develop crucial mathematical and laboratory skills, and learn about some of their applications in scientific fields. Modules cover topics including light, acoustics, mechanics, electromagnetism, geophysics and astrophysics.
Compulsory Modules
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
Our teaching combines lectures, small-group tutorials, workshops and practical sessions. Some sessions may also involve programming activities to enhance your learning experience.
Our group sessions are relaxed and informal, providing a space for you to ask questions about lecture topics and collaborate on solving problems set by tutors. Additionally, we strongly encourage you to engage in one-on-one discussions with your tutors to address any academic concerns or questions you may have.
You’ll use laboratory sessions to perform experiments related to subjects from the lecture programme. Lecturers or postgraduate students supervise these sessions, to ensure that experiments are safely executed.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunity for independent study during your degree programme as you work on coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly show your independent work. It’ll allow you to get to grips with an aspect of physics that really interests you.
When you start, you’ll need the most contact time. In year one you’ll have around 16 hours of timetabled teaching sessions per week, consisting of lectures, workshops/tutorials, and supervised lab sessions.
Assessment
We use a range of assessment methods to best reflect each module and what we hope you’ll gain from it.
You'll have different kinds of assessments to earn credit, like exams and practical reports. You’ll be given many opportunities to practice your understanding and prepare for these. After formative assessments (they’re not for credit, just for practice), you’ll receive feedback on your work to help you improve.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll start selecting modules that interest you most. Options may cover such topics as electronics, oceanography, meteorology, geophysics and renewable energy.
You’ll build on what you’ve learnt in year one, with teaching in laboratory skills, mathematics, quantum mechanics and thermodynamics.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)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
From year two onwards you’ll begin to choose optional modules. These vary in their number of hours of lecture time, but on average you’ll have around 12 hours of timetabled teaching per week – again made up of lectures, workshops/tutorials, and labs. This is less than in year one, as you grow in confidence and learn more through independent study.
Assessment
Like in year one, assessments will combine exams and practical reports. You’ll be prepared for these summative assessments through formative assessments that are only for practice not for credit.
Structure
You’ll study overseas for a year, taking advanced level modules in your core subjects as well as elective modules to suit your interests.
You’ll be able to choose modules from the partner institution as you consult with your adviser or Course Director.
Compulsory Modules
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
During the third year, you'll study abroad, experiencing different teaching methods at our partner institutions. You'll still have access to UEA's online learning resources and support services through the library and other channels.
Assessment
At the end of your year abroad, you’ll write a summary, which is the only assessment of the year. It’s a simple pass/fail check to allow you to proceed onto the final year (which is the same as the third year of the standard BSc Physics programme).
Structure
In your final year, you'll have the freedom to tailor your studies to your interests by choosing optional modules. You’ll also be taught advanced physics topics and laboratory skills.
Your independent research project will be a large part of your final year of study. With the support of an expert supervisor, you’ll be able to delve deeper into a real problem in physics.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)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
Return to campus, after the year abroad. By this point, you’ll grow more independent. You’ll undertake substantially more study outside lectures, especially on your final-year project. For this you’ll meet with your project supervisor weekly, but otherwise will work on your own or with one or two other students. Timetabled teaching will be roughly 8 hours per week, depending on which optional modules you choose.
Assessment
In year four, you’ll have more optional modules, and you can reduce the number of examinations you take, by choosing modules that are assessed through coursework submission. The final-year project is assessed through a combination of a written dissertation and a presentation.
Employability
After the Course
You’ll have many career opportunities as a physics graduate. You can work in science-based industries or pursue academic and research careers. Other careers include nanotechnology, energy, space research, engineering, telecommunications, education, defence, data science, science journalism, finance, medicine and government agencies. You could also choose to continue your studies to a Master’s or doctorate level.
We work with UEA’s Careers Service to support you at every stage of the course, from choosing a career through to applying for graduate jobs.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Research scientist
- Actuary astronomer
- Space scientists
- Data analyst
- Air traffic control
- Programmer
- Teacher
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
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.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including Mathematics and Physics
Contextual offer: BBB including Mathematics and Physics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Not accepted.
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Science Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Mathematics and 12 credits in Physics.
T levels
Not accepted.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BSc Physics with a Foundation Year.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL 6 Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches) and HL 5 Physics, or HL 5 Mathematics and HL 6 Physics.
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Mathematics and Physics
Scottish Highers
AAAAA including Mathematics and Physics
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC including Mathematics and Physics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- 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.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
AAB including Mathematics and Physics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including HL 6 Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches) and HL 5 Physics, or HL 5 Mathematics and HL 6 Physics.
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- 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):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’re eligible for reduced fees during the year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees pages.
There’ll be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year abroad, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: