Physics and Mathematics BSc (Hons)
Study level: Undergraduate
This course aims to provide you with a grounding of physics, the queen of the sciences, multiplied by a solid knowledge of mathematics, programming and numerical methods required for understanding the Universe.
Year of entry
Location
Coventry University (Coventry)
Study mode
Full-time
Sandwich
Duration
3 years full-time
4 years sandwich
Course code
F302
Start date
September 2023
Course overview
This physics and mathematics degree combines a thorough education in mathematics with explorations of phenomena at all length scales, from the sub-atomic level (quantum mechanics) to the macroscopic scale (cosmology), and everything in between.
- You will have the opportunity to gain expertise in mathematics and translate concepts in physics into mathematical and computational models, allowing you to solve various physical and real-world problems upon successful completion of the course.
- An essential part of the course relies on understanding numerical and experimental processes and the uncertainties inherent to measurements. As such, there will be ample opportunity for you to engage with real-world data analysis and experimental techniques using activity-led learning, lab-before-lecture and flipped learning techniques, which have formed a long-standing part of Coventry University’s teaching and learning strategy.
- Over the course of your studies, you will have the chance to learn a variety of analytical and numerical tools used by physicists to tackle problems in the field of statistical mechanics, cosmology, or quantum mechanics.

Joint Top Modern University for Career Prospects
Guardian University Guide 2021 and 2022
5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities
QS Stars University Ratings
Top 5 UK Student City (Coventry)
QS Best Student Cities Index 2023Why you should study this course
- Studying physics and mathematics degree at Coventry University will provide you with the opportunity to delve into the laws governing the Universe, from a microscopic (particles and atoms) to an astronomical scale (planets and galaxies), and the diverse and beautiful language of mathematics required to describe the laws.
- Technological advances such as the current digital revolution, quantum computing, and holographic screens were driven by the curiosity of generations of scientists investigating the fundamental principles of physics. Future advances, will likewise, depend on our evolving understanding of physics. Since ancient times, critical thinking has been at the heart of all physical theory. You will acquire the core meta skill traditional in physics to question everything, to take nothing for granted, to test theory against experiments until one reaches a coherent and satisfying model of the world around us.
- You will be taught by a teaching team which includes active researchers in physics and applied mathematics with expertise in complex systems, statistical physics and fluid dynamics, who share their research expertise through teaching and supervising projects. The teaching team is passionate about and uniquely oriented towards success and the wellbeing of their students. (Staff may be subject to change).
- Studying physics and mathematics will provide you with the opportunity to develop practical, experimental, and strong problem-solving skills. This may open the door, not only to careers in all areas of science, engineering, and teaching, but thanks to the transferable nature of the skills developed, graduates are also much appreciated in areas as diverse as data science, actuarial science, finance, and banking.
- You’ll also receive one-to-one assistance from sigma, the university’s Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Statistics Support4.
What you'll study
We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.
How you'll learn
Learning will be facilitated through a variety of methods which may include lectures, seminars, lab, workshops, online activities and group work. Students are expected to engage in both class and online activities and discussions. This module also requires students to participate in additional guided reading and self-directed study to reinforce the learning gained from timetabled sessions.
Formative feedback will be used to prepare students for summative assessment and give students an early indication of their progress towards the module's intended learning outcomes. A portion of this module’s contact time will be dedicated to course support sessions. The course support sessions are weekly, timetabled sessions where students can explore areas of the course which they find challenging or get support with personal projects and employability efforts (subject to availability).
Teaching contact hours
We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which can include:
- On campus lectures, seminars and workshops
- Group work
- Self-directed learning
- Work placement opportunities2.
The number of full-time contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 12 contact hours per week. Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study each week of more than 30 hours, depending on the demands of individual modules.
The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.
As an innovative and enterprising institution, the University may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.
Assessment
This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.
Assessment methods include:
- Formal examinations
- Phase tests
- Essays
- Group work
- Presentations
- Reports
- Projects
- Coursework
- Individual assignments
The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards the achieving the intended learning outcomes.
Entry requirements
Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.
Fees and funding
2023/24 tuition fees.
Student | Full-time | Part-time |
---|---|---|
UK | £9,250 per year | Not available |
International | £19,850 per year | Not available |
If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.
For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.
We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.
The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:
- Optional international field trips: £400+ per trip.
- Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad)
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How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?
We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.
If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.
Facilities
The School of Computing, Mathematics and Data Science is based in the Engineering and Computing Building, and the attached Beatrice Shilling Building. Both buildings are high-specification learning environments which benefit from extensive social learning facilities4, well-appointed laboratories, lecturing facilities and classrooms, facilitating our innovative teaching methods across a diverse suite of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Engineering and Computing Building and Beatrice Shilling Building are the modern venues of the University where teaching will take place. Buildings are equipped with traditional classrooms with white boards and visualising equipment as well as physics and computer laboratories, designed to suit the diverse teaching style required for this subject.

Sigma Centre
The Sigma Centre is an award-winning mathematics support centre, which provides a wide range of learning resources in mathematics and statistics. Students can make use of drop-in sessions or one-to-one appointments.

Informal study areas
You will have plenty of computer access to all the specialist software required for your studies. There are also bookable spaces where students can meet with academics or work in small groups.
Careers and opportunities
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Apply physical principles to diverse areas of Physics and Mathematics
- Solve problems in Physics by choosing appropriate mathematical and physical techniques
- Make appropriate approximations when solving problems
- Critically analyse experimental results and place them in their context
- Use mathematical or computational techniques to model physical phenomena
- Communicate scientific information in a clear and accurate way
- Work cooperatively on a project
- Create working solutions to a variety of computational and real-world problems using an appropriate programming language (or languages) for the task
- Plan and execute an open-ended but supervised research project.
Studying physics and mathematics aims to give you the opportunity to help you to develop skills in logical thinking and demonstrates to employers your advanced numerical and analytical ability.
It may also give you an advantage in the job market upon successful completion, opening a wide range of career opportunities in industry, banking, data science, computer analysis and scientific research. You may be employed in a wide variety of roles, for example, as a research scientist, actuary, computer programmer, data analyst or teacher.
Where our graduates work
Previous students on our Mathematics and Physics BSc (Hons) degree have worked at a wide range of employers including, for example IBM, GSK, Pfizer, Cummins, Scottish Power and Warner Bros.
Further study
You can choose to continue your studies at Coventry University with the Data Science MSc. You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.
How to apply
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UK students
Full-time students applying to start in September 2023 can apply for this course through UCAS from 6 September 2022. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.
Part-time students should apply directly to the university.
If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.
Chat with our admissions team
Complete our contact form
-
International students
International codes:
EECU147Full-time students applying to start in September 2023 should apply directly to the university.
How to applyFor further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.
You can also download our International guide which contains lots of useful information about our courses, accommodation and tips for travel.
Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.
Chat with our admissions team
Complete our contact form
-
Disclaimers
Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.
1Accreditations
The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.
2UK and international opportunities
Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.
3Tuition fees
The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.
For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.
4Facilities
Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.
Student Contract
By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2023/24 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.
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