BSc (Hons) Physics with a Year Abroad
Course options
Key Details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- F30A
- Entry Requirements
- AAB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Chat to us on Unibuddy
Any questions? Chat online with current students, staff and experts. This is your chance to ask anything about UEA, university life, Norwich and more.
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Studying abroad is a fantastic life experience, and you can combine this with a BSc degree based here 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, making use of our top-class facilities and high-tech equipment. Following that, you'll move abroad to your international year, learning Physics at a Higher Education institution overseas and getting both a deeper knowledge of the subject as well as the new skills and experiences that come from international study. Finally, you'll return to UEA for the final year of your degree.
As well as core modules that give you a solid and broad foundation across Physics, we offer a rich variety of optional modules for you to shape your degree path. In the final year you will undertake a substantial project whose direction you get to control; many students use this opportunity to discover the research direction of our staff, whilst others already have their own idea they want to pursue. It is also possible to work on a medical physics project, in collaboration with the hospital next to campus.
Through your degree you'll develop a range of sought-after skills, ready to embark on the next phase of your life - perhaps an exciting career in industry or teaching, or postgraduate study to dive deeper into a specific topic and explore the cutting edge of research.
Physics at UEA
To study physics is to ask questions – to interrogate everything. What is the nature of matter? What are the origins of the universe? What is the basis for the mechanics of sound? And how will that ocean wave move next? Incredibly diverse, abstract and yet also creative, without physics, there would be no answers to many of the questions we face, from the smallest to the vastest.
Study physics at UEA and you’ll be joining a multidisciplinary faculty with a thriving research community that includes specialist groups with expertise in geophysics, astrophysics, fluid mechanics, chemical physics and quantum physics. You’ll take advantage of top-class facilities, including spectroscopy and ultrafast laser equipment, high-tech geophysics apparatus and experimental wave tanks. And you’ll be able to tailor your degree with a range of optional modules.
Physics is concerned with the most fundamental questions about nature. It’s an inspiring subject that enables you to cultivate your abstract, creative reasoning and your practical, applied knowledge.
During the first two years of this four-year degree, you’ll explore some major themes in physics. You will also have the opportunity, with our support, to secure a study abroad placement at one of our international higher education partners. It is hoped that by the time you reach your study abroad year the global situation affecting us now will be significantly improved and you will be able to benefit from the international links we have.
Your third year will be spent at your study abroad location. This will enable you to develop additional skills and networks that will be of immense benefit after you graduate. In your final year, in addition to continuing to study the major themes of physics, you’ll do a project where you have the chance to research a specific topic of your choice.
Throughout the course, you’ll develop an impressive range of transferable skills in mathematics, communication and collaborative work. You will also build practical professional skills in areas like academic research, analytical problem solving and computing. These are highly sought-after skills for which employers in several sectors specifically prefer physics graduates.
Physics is not only a fascinating discipline, but a highly regarded qualification too. Study with us at UEA and you’ll develop a deep curiosity about the workings of our universe at a wide range of scales and gain powerful scientific skills to employ in diverse areas, so you’ll leave as a highly employable graduate.
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 culminate in a final year project, giving you the chance to research a topic of your own choosing.
Placement Year and Study 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, Australasia, or Asia. Here you’ll study advanced level modules from the core subjects as well as some elective modules to suit your interests.
You will 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
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 the scientific fields that these skills can be applied to. 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, with some including an element of programming. Our group sessions are informal and allow you raise questions related to lectures and find solutions to problems set by tutors. We also actively encourage you to discuss academic matters with your tutors on a one-to-one basis. You’ll use laboratory sessions to perform experiments related to subjects from the lecture programme. They’ll be supervised by lecturers or postgraduate students, who will discuss the relevant theory and ensure that experiments are safely executed.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of physics that really interests you.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods to best reflect each module and what we hope you will gain from it.
Assessments will usually feature a combination of practical reports, data handling, project work, dissertations, and examinations.
Structure
Your second year will enable you to start selecting modules that interest you. Options may cover such topics as electronics, oceanography, meteorology, geophysics and renewable energy.
You’ll build on what you’ve learnt in year 1, 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
Our teaching combines lectures, small-group tutorials, workshops and practical sessions, with some including an element of programming. Our group sessions are informal and allow you raise questions related to lectures and find solutions to problems set by tutors. We also actively encourage you to discuss academic matters with your tutors on a one-to-one basis. You’ll use laboratory sessions to perform experiments related to subjects from the lecture programme. They’ll be supervised by lecturers or postgraduate students, who will discuss the relevant theory and ensure that experiments are safely executed.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of physics that really interests you.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods to best reflect each module and what we hope you will gain from it.
Assessments will usually feature a combination of practical reports, data handling, project work, dissertations, and examinations.
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 will be able to choose modules from the partner institution in consultation 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
Our teaching combines lectures, small-group tutorials, workshops and practical sessions, with some including an element of programming. Our group sessions are informal and allow you raise questions related to lectures and find solutions to problems set by tutors. We also actively encourage you to discuss academic matters with your tutors on a one-to-one basis. You’ll use laboratory sessions to perform experiments related to subjects from the lecture programme. They’ll be supervised by lecturers or postgraduate students, who will discuss the relevant theory and ensure that experiments are safely executed.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of physics that really interests you.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods to best reflect each module and what we hope you will gain from it.
Assessments will usually feature a combination of practical reports, data handling, project work, dissertations, and examinations.
Structure
In your final year, you will be able to direct your own learning by selecting optional modules from the range we offer. You’ll also be taught advanced physics topics and laboratory skills.
Your independent research project will form a large part of your final year of study. Working with an expert supervisor, you will 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
Our teaching combines lectures, small-group tutorials, workshops and practical sessions, with some including an element of programming. Our group sessions are informal and allow you raise questions related to lectures and find solutions to problems set by tutors. We also actively encourage you to discuss academic matters with your tutors on a one-to-one basis. You’ll use laboratory sessions to perform experiments related to subjects from the lecture programme. They’ll be supervised by lecturers or postgraduate students, who will discuss the relevant theory and ensure that experiments are safely executed.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunity for independent study throughout your degree programme as you complete coursework and prepare for exams. However, your final year research project will truly exemplify your independent work, allowing you to get to grips with an aspect of physics that really interests you.
Assessment
We employ a range of assessment methods to best reflect each module and what we hope you will gain from it.
Assessments will usually feature a combination of practical reports, data handling, project work, dissertations, and examinations.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- AAB including Mathematics and Physics. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Not accepted.
- BTEC
- Not accepted.
- 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.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Mathematics and Physics.
- Access to HE Diploma
- 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.
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 including HL6 Mathematics and HL5 Physics or HL5 Mathematics and HL6 Physics.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- 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) for year 1 entry
-
IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry
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:
-
- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- 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.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
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.
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.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
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:
International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
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 are eligible for reduced fees during the year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees pages.
There will be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your year abroad, which will vary depending on location.
Please Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
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:
Employability
After the Course
Career opportunities in physics are almost as vast as the subject itself. They include everything from academic and research careers to positions in 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 offer you support at every stage of the course, from choosing a career through to applying for graduate jobs.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Research scientist
- Space scientists
- Data analyst
- Air traffic control
- Teacher
Discover more on our Careers webpages.