Physics MPhys/BSc (Hons)
Course Code
UCAS Code: F300 (BSc)
F301 (MPhys)
International Code: EECU036 (BSc)
EECU037 (MPhys)
Location
Coventry University (Coventry)
Study mode
Full-time
Sandwich
Duration
3 years full-time
4 years full-time
4 years sandwich
5 years sandwich
Start date
September 2022
Course overview
Study level: Undergraduate
This course aims to provide you with a solid grounding in understanding fundamental concepts in physics.
This physics degree explores phenomena at all length scales, from the sub-atomic level (quantum mechanics) to the macroscopic scale (cosmology), and everything in between.
It aims to train you to identify key aspects of physical phenomenon, as well as in the essential approximations required to carry out practical calculations.
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.
You will have the opportunity to 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.
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.

Global Ready
An international outlook, with global opportunities
Teaching excellence
Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
Employability
Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeedWhy you should study this course
Studying a physics 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 much more. A degree in physics may also open the door to a huge range of rewarding careers.
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. It is a tradition 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.
Studying this exciting subject 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, physics graduates are also much appreciated in areas as diverse as data science, actuarial science, finance, and banking.
Coventry University has long-standing research in many areas of theoretical and experimental physics: Fluid Mechanics, Magneto Hydrodynamics, Materials Science, Condensed Matter Physics, Statistical Physics and Complex Systems, Nanophysics, Cosmology and Lasers, to mention a few.
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
Actual teaching contact hours will vary depending on the level of study and the requirements of a particular semester. You will learn through a suitable combination of lectures, examples classes, tutorial sessions and laboratory sessions.
As well as having the opportunity to learn the theoretical foundations for studying physics, there is an emphasis on developing practical skills, which includes the use of physics laboratory sessions and PC sessions using software to solve problems in physics.
In addition, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study each week depending on the demands of individual modules. The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 18 contact hours per week in the first year, reducing by approximately 3 hours per week in subsequent years as you become a more independent learner.
Students completing the MPhys have a final year project in Year four instead of Year three, leaving time and space for an additional module in Year three. Hence, during the second semester of Year three, students completing the MPhys should expect an additional 3-4 contact hours per week compared to BSc students, who will be completing their final year project. In the fourth year, the first semester consists of around 13 contact hours per week, whilst the second semester is entirely dedicated to the final year project.
Assessment
This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which could vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods include in-class tests, exams, coursework, labs, presentations, and reports.
The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.
Job ready
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Apply physical principles to diverse areas of Physics
- 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.
Additionally, upon successful completion of the MPhys course, you will be able to:
- Apply physical and mathematical principles to solve research informed problems in Physics at the forefront of discipline
- Demonstrate an understanding and communicate complex scientific ideas concisely and accurately
- Demonstrate an understanding of scientific research and be able to propose realistic methods to advance the research further
- Apply a range of postgraduate level transferable skills in data analysis, science communication, critical thinking and problem solving
- Plan and execute an open-ended research project.
International experience opportunities
If you have a desire to gain international experience, there are opportunities to spend a year studying abroad*. The opportunity for a placement year means that we will aim to support you in applying for a placement.
Entry requirements
Fees and funding
2022/23 Tuition fees
Student | Full time | Part time |
---|---|---|
UK | £9,250 per year | Not available |
International | £18,050 per year | Not available |
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.
Facilities

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.

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.

Mathematics laboratory
Set out like a traditional classroom with a large whiteboard, it is the only teaching room in the Engineering and Computing Building laid out in this way, designed to suit the teaching style required for this subject.
Careers and opportunities
Studying physics 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 should apply for this course through UCAS. Part-time students should apply directly to the university. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.
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
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply directly to the university. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.
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.
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Disclaimer
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 2021/22 Contract can be found here. 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.
Tuition fees
The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we 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. Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance from time to time.
For International students the tuition fee that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For international students, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation.
Accreditations
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.
Facilities
Facilities mentioned on this page may not be relevant for every course. Due to the ongoing restrictions relating 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.
Placements and study abroad opportunities
Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.
Additional costs
This course may incur additional costs associated with any field trips, placements or work experience, study abroad opportunities or any other opportunity (whether required or optional), which could include (but is not limited to), equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas).