BSc Theoretical Physics with Professional Placement

University of Exeter

OverviewGain a solid foundation in modern physics, covering essential topics such as classical physics, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, relativity and solid-state physicsYou’ll focus on modern theoretical physics methods and applications, equipping you with the knowledge and skills for addressing contemporary challenges in the fieldEngage in two extended projects in your final year tackling real-world problems. Experience working as a team and communicating your results to a variety of audiences in different waysBenefit from access to advanced research facilities including clean rooms, a helium liquefier, a water tank, amplified ultra-fast laser systems, and a suite of instruments for imaging biological materialsFrom day one, you will develop skills that are highly valued by employers such as data analysis, critical thinking, problem-solving, scientific programming and science communication.Course contentOur programme is carefully designed around a skills development roadmap that starts on day one, and continues across your whole degree.Your first year introduces you to the physics of everyday life and experimental physics as well as supporting you to advance your mathematical and computational data analysis skills. Alongside your physics studies, we start preparing you for your future career as a physicist by developing your professional skills.As you continue through year 2 you will continue to develop your understanding of classical physics, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, relativity, solid-state physics, and many other aspects of modern Physics.Since Physics is an inherently collaborative discipline, the final year of the programme also involves substantial open-ended project work. These theoretical or experimental projects will give you the opportunity to undertake team-based work tackling real-world problems and to develop your ability to communicate the results of complex investigations to a variety of audiences in different ways.Your futureStudents in Physics labEmployability skills are an integral part of the physics curriculum. The flexibility and adaptability of a well-trained physicist is appreciated by employers: they acknowledge the benefits of excellent problem solving skills, an educated scientific intuition, and the confidence to be able to grasp new concepts quickly.Our degree programmes include:A continuous Skills Development programme that will lead to the creation of a professional portfolioExtensive problem-solving skills trainingDevelopment of group working skillsTraining in scientific communicationScientific data analysis training.Career pathsThe largest proportion of our graduates enter science-based industries in positions involving research and development, production and management. Other careers include scientific work in government establishments (e.g., QinetiQ or Harwell Laboratories), hospital physics in the NHS, and technical management in broadcasting and the communications sector. Some work in high-tech start-up companies.The broad-based skills acquired during your degree will give you an excellent grounding for a wide variety of careers, not only those related to Physics but also in wider fields. Examples of roles recent graduates are now working as include:Academic ResearcherActuary AstronomerChartered and Certified AccountantCyber Security ProfessionalEngineerFinancial Accounts ManagerIT Business Analyst and Systems ArchitectProgrammerSoftware DeveloperTeacher.

Physics and Astronomy