Physics and Mathematics BSc (Hons) with foundation year
Study level: UndergraduateThis 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.
Course option
Year of entry
Location
CU Coventry (Coventry) and
Coventry University (Coventry)
Study mode
Full-time
Sandwich
Duration
4 years full-time
5 years sandwich
UCAS codes
F3DF
Start date
September 2025
November 2025
The information on this page is for 2024-25 entry and should be used as guidance for 2025-26 entry. Please keep checking back on this course page to see our latest updates.
Course overview
Our degree with foundation year could be the stepping stone you need to achieve your goals. The foundation year aims to prepare you for degree-level study and is a great way to build the confidence, skills and knowledge needed to succeed on your degree course.
Foundation year
The course aims to provide you with a solid grounding in mathematical principles and an understanding of the core technology associated with the use and application of computer systems. Professional and academic skills are integrated across all modules, including information finding and handling, problem-solving and the communication of outcomes.
Degree
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 20225 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities
QS Stars University RatingsTop 10 UK Student City (Coventry)
QS Best Student Cities Index 2024Why you should study this course
Foundation year
- Supports you to gain the academic skills required for degree-level study.
- Provides a grounding in key areas of mathematics and computing.
Degree
- 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.
Entry requirements
Typical offer for 2024/25 entry.
Got higher grades? Have you considered direct entry to the degree without foundation year?
Fees and funding
Foundation year
Student | Full-time | Part-time |
---|---|---|
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man | 2025/26 fees TBC 2024/25 fees - £7,950 |
Not available |
International/EU | Not currently available*** | Not available |
Degree
Student | Full-time | Part-time |
---|---|---|
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man | 2025/26 fees TBC 2024/25 fees - £9,250 per year |
Not available |
International/EU | Not currently available*** | Not available |
Please note: UK (home) tuition fees for the degree course years will be charged at the current Coventry University UK (home) degree fee level. This was set at £9,250 for the 24/25 academic year.
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.
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:
- Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
- Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).
*Irish student fees
The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.
**This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathways Programme for additional options.
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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 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
Our foundation years are taught at CU Coventry’s Mile Lane building, a short walk from the city centre. You’re part of the university from day one, so during your foundation year you’ll have access to the wider facilities at Coventry University. Once you successfully complete your foundation year, you'll transfer over to studying your chosen degree at Coventry University, where you'll be taught on campus in the relevant academic buildings.
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
Applications open for this course in May 2024. In the meantime you can register your interest in Coventry University.
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
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International students
International codes:
How to apply
CEECU147IFor 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
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Disclaimers
Study location
The Foundation Year study route will be delivered by CU, part of the Coventry University Group, for and on behalf of Coventry University.
If you choose to study at CU Coventry for your Foundation Year, then your learning will be based at CU Coventry. Mile Lane, Coventry. Subject to meeting requirements you will then transition to the relevant Coventry University subject faculty building for your progression degree.
Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, 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 unpaid and/or 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, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any 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
Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.
Student Contract
By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2024/2025 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2025/2026 contract will apply for the 2025/2026 intake. 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.