BSc Physics (F300)

2027 entry | view 2026 entry

Course summary

Join a university ranked in the UK top five for physics research (THE analysis of REF 2021) with an excellent reputation for teaching and learning.

Our BSc Physics degree deals with the big questions, uncovering the building blocks and forces of nature. You'll explore how quantum physics and relativity help us understand our world. We cover topics ranging from the infinitesimal scale of particle and nuclear physics to the cosmic scale of galaxies and the Universe.

In year one, you'll gain a comprehensive grounding in physics and mathematics. We'll introduce you to the practical and computing skills essential for physics.

During year two, you'll develop a fundamental understanding of the principles of physics. You'll enjoy hands-on investigative work in the laboratory and continue to build your confidence in computational physics.

Flexibility and choice are essential to a Bristol Physics degree. You'll have a wide range of units to choose from in your third year, allowing you to specialise in the topics you find most fascinating. You'll also undertake a major project or dissertation, conducting original investigations as part of one of our research themes.

Join our friendly department with an active, award-winning student society. We run physics-specific employability sessions, supporting you to develop a broad range of transferable skills. We focus on skills highly valued by employers, including problem solving and how to communicate complicated concepts. Our graduates have an excellent record of employment across a range of industries.

Our Think Big international scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students could help you fund your UK study at the University of Bristol.

Accreditations

Our Physics BSc is accredited by IOP.

What you'll gain: skills and careers

Career paths

  • Software Engineer
  • Data Scientist
  • Engineering Consultant
  • Management Consultant
  • Applied Physicist

Skills taught

  • Scientific problem solving
  • Quantitative and mathematical analysis
  • Programming and AI
  • Project management
  • Technical communication

Graduate employers

  • Cabinet Office
  • Deloitte
  • EDF Energy
  • National Physical Laboratory
  • Barclays Investment Bank

Course structure

Full details about the course structure and units for this course can be viewed in the programme catalogue.

Go to programme catalogue

Entry requirements

We accept a wide variety of qualifications and welcome applications from students of all backgrounds. Below is a guide to the typical offers for this course.

A*AA including A*A (in any order) in Mathematics and Physics
D*DD in Engineering BTEC National Level 3 Extended Diploma, with Distinctions in four specified Physics units, and A in Mathematics at A-level (or equivalent).

Find out more about BTEC entry requirements
38 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including 7, 6 (in any order) at Higher Level in Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) and Physics
34 points overall with 17 at Higher Level, including 6, 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) and Physics

Find out if you are eligible for a contextual offer
Advanced Higher: AA in Mathematics and Physics, and Standard Higher: AAAAA
Access to HE Diploma in Engineering, Science, or Computing (or similar titles). The 45 graded Level 3 credits must include: at least 30 credits at Distinction and 15 at Merit or above; and at least 12 credits at Distinction from Mathematics units (including algebra, calculus and trigonometry); and at least 12 credits at Distinction from specified Physics units. plus successful completion of a University of Bristol test and interview (or A at A-Level or equivalent in Mathematics and Physics).

More about Access to HE entry requirements
Requirements are as for A-levels, where you can substitute a non-subject specific grade for the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales or the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate at that grade.
Requirements for principal subjects are as for A-level, where D1/D2 is A*, D3 is A, M1/M2 is B, and M3 is C.
The University of Bristol welcomes applications from international students, and we accept a wide range of qualifications for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

Search international qualifications
More about UK qualifications.

There's a huge amount of flexibility in the courses. There are specialist courses focusing on things like astrophysics or theoretical physics, or you can take a more general physics course. You can choose from loads of options to customise your degree.
Laura
BSc Physics