Physics BSc (Hons) 2019 entry

The BSc (Hons) in Physics will allow you to explore the fundamentals of this central science, from classical dynamics to the intriguing theories of quantum mechanics and relativity, and how these and other underpinning ideas may be applied in fields such as electronics, lasers, music, and semiconductors. 

The Physics degree programme allows you to access opportunities to develop your knowledge and skills (including computational and lab work) to build competencies that will be useful in a wide range of careers, both in physics-based industry and in areas such as finance and management. 

Students interested in this course may also be interested in the Physics Integrated Masters and the Theoretical Physics Integrated Masters courses, the Astrophysics BSc or Astrophysics MPhys or joint degrees with Physics.

Applications for 2019 entry for this course have now closed, see which courses are available for the upcoming academic year.

UCAS code

F301

Course type

Bachelor of Science (single Honours degree)

Course duration

Four years full time (three years for direct entry)

If you started this programme in 2018, you can find information about 2018 entry on the 2018 Physics BSc page. Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the archive.

Entry requirements

SQA Highers AAAA, including Physics and Mathematics
GCE A-Levels AAA, including Physics and Mathematics
IB points 38, including HL6 in Physics and HL6 in Mathematics

Some students may wish to apply for admission directly to the second year of this course. Such an entry point has the requirement of one of the following:

  • AA at Advanced Highers (including Physics and Mathematics), and AAAA at Highers (including Physics and Mathematics)
  • AAA at A-level, including Physics and Mathematics
  • 38 IB points, including HL6 in Physics and HL6 in Mathematics

Find out more about direct entry to second year for Physics BSc.

Students with high academic potential but who have had less access to advanced level qualifications may be interested in the Physics and Astronomy Gateway or International Gateway programmes.

We accept a wide range of qualifications for entry on to our programmes, please see our entry requirements for more information.

For degrees combining more than one subject, the subject with the higher entry requirements determines the grades you need. You will also need to meet any further subject specific entrance requirements as outlined on their pages.

International applicants

If English is not your first language you will need an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum score of 6.0 in each component (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking), or an equivalent English Language qualification.

How to apply

Do I need to have studied this subject before?

Students must have studied both Physics and Mathematics at SQA Higher, GCE A-Level, or equivalent. Preference may be given to candidates offering strong science qualifications.

Faculty entry requirements

You must also meet the Faculty of Science minimum qualifications. These vary depending on which qualifications you hold.

Other qualifications

Passes in other examinations at equivalent levels and subjects may be accepted by the Dean of the Faculty. More information on how to apply via other entry routes or accreditation of prior learning and experience can be found on the University’s entry requirements webpage.

Find out more about Faculty of Science entry requirements.

Timetables

St Andrews students must meet with their Adviser of Studies at the beginning of Semester 1 in September to complete advising – a compulsory part of the matriculation process. After module choices have been decided, a timetable will be allocated indicating the dates and times of classes.

Reputation

The School of Physics and Astronomy has an excellent reputation for the high quality of its teaching and research.

The School was ranked first in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2019 and first in Scotland by the 2019 Complete University Guide for student satisfaction, research excellence and graduate prospects.

In the most recent (2014) Research Excellence Framework (REF), the School was ranked third in the UK for research quality.

The University of St Andrews as a whole was voted top in the UK for student academic experience in The National Student Survey 2018 as 94% of St Andrews final year students gave the University top marks for the quality of the learning and teaching experience.

The University has secured a TEF Gold Award for the quality of teaching and the undergraduate experience.

Find out more about studying Physics and Astronomy at St Andrews.

Course information

The BSc in Physics is a four-year course run by the School of Physics and Astronomy. During your degree, you will be introduced to core topics in mainstream physics – such as mechanics, special relativity, waves, quantum physics, light, electricity and magnetism – as well as develop the necessary mathematical, computational, and laboratory skills needed as a physicist. Later in the course, these underpinning skills and knowledge bases may be used to explain and explore a range of contemporary topics.

In the first two years of your studies you will also study modules from the School of Mathematics and Statistics, as mathematics is the language of physics. Depending on how many mathematics modules you choose to do, you may be able to choose modules in other subjects such as astronomy, chemistry, computer science, philosophy, or many other subjects from across the University. The flexible nature of the degree programmes at St Andrews means that by appropriate choice of modules in first and second year, you may be able to change your final degree topic during your course. Find out more about how academic years are organised.

You have some choice of modules in first and second year. At the start of third year, your choice of degree title (in the School of Physics and Astronomy) largely determines what set of modules you take in third year. There is significant choice of modules in fourth year. 

Well-qualified school and college leavers may be able to apply for admission directly into the second year of this course. This allows them to complete their degree programme in three years instead of four. Find out more about direct entry to second year for Physics BSc.

It is possible for students to take Physics as a five-year Integrated Masters course in Physics, Theoretical Physics or Astrophysics allowing you to graduate with a Master of Physics. Direct entry into second year for these courses is also possible, allowing you to complete an Integrated Masters degree programme in four years instead of five. 

The University of St Andrews operates on a flexible modular degree system by which degrees are obtained through the accumulation of credits. More information on the structure of the modules system can be found on the flexible degree structure webpage.

Find out more about studying Physics and Astronomy at St Andrews.

Modules

In the first two years of your degree (known as sub-honours) you will take the required modules in Physics and Mathematics, possibly alongside modules in one or more other subjects.

Typically, you will take one or two Physics modules per semester during your first two years, and four to five modules per semester during your third and fourth year (known as Honours). Find out more about the modular Scottish degree system.

Students are required to take the following compulsory modules in their first year:

  • Physics 1A: covers the core subjects of mechanics, waves and optics, and the physical properties of matter, including laboratory skills.
  • Physics 1B: covers an introduction to quantum physics, the mechanics of rotation and gravity, and lasers, including laboratory skills.
  • Mathematics: covers the ideas, methods and techniques needed to apply mathematics in the physical sciences or for taking the study of mathematics further.

This typically leaves two or three other modules that may be chosen from astronomy, mathematics, chemistry, music, or a range of other topics.

Students are required to take the following compulsory modules in their second year:

  • Physics 2A: covers mechanics, special relativity, oscillations and thermal physics, including laboratory skills.
  • Physics 2B: covers quantum physics, electricity, magnetism and classical waves, including laboratory skills.
  • Linear Mathematics: introduces the basic theory of vector spaces, linear independence, linear transformation and diagonalization.
  • Multivariate Calculus: introduces partial derivatives, double and triple integrals, surface sketching, and cylindrical and spherical coordinates.

This typically leaves room for half a semester of other modules which may be in astronomy, mathematics, or other areas. 

If you decide to take the Physics degree programme in your third year, you will cover advanced theory and applications in some or all of the following subjects:

  • electromagnetism
  • laboratory skills and investigations
  • mathematics for physicists
  • quantum mechanics
  • thermal and statistical physics.

You will also take ‘Transferable Skills for Physicists’ which provides training and practice in advanced written and oral communication skills, problem solving and teamwork.

During third year, you have the opportunity to begin specialising in areas that may include:

  • electronics
  • linear maths

During fourth year you may take advanced research-led modules in your chosen speciality. Advanced modules offered in the past include:

  • Atomic, Nuclear, and Particle Physics
  • Communication and Teaching in Science
  • Concepts in Atomic Physics and Magnetic Resonance
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Fluids
  • Laser Physics
  • Physics of Music
  • Principal of Optics
  • Signals and Information.

In fourth year, students will undertake a major project which is often carried out within one of the School’s research groups. This provides a great chance to explore physics, and on occasion can lead to a paper in a refereed international scientific journal.


The sub-honours modules listed here are the compulsory modules that students must take in order to graduate in this subject. However, most students at St Andrews take additional modules, either in their primary subject or from other subjects they are interested in. For Honours level, students choose from a range of Honours modules, some of which are listed above. A full list of all modules available for the current academic year can be found in the module catalogue.

Teaching

Teaching format

Physics modules are taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops and laboratory work.

In both first and second year, each core Physics module typically consists of four to five lectures per week (around 20 to 150 students), along with one problem-solving workshop, one small group tutorial (4 to 8 students), and 2.5 hours in the teaching laboratory. Laboratory work is usually undertaken in pairs in first year and individually in second year.

At Honours level, lecture-based modules in this School typically consist of three lectures per week (5 to 80 students), some with associated small group tutorials (5 to 9 students). Students on the Physics BSc also take two laboratory based modules, each of which runs two afternoons a week in different semesters. 

In your final semester, you will spend around 20 hours per week focusing on your final project.

When not attending lectures, tutorials and labs, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve:

  • working on individual and group projects
  • undertaking research in the library
  • preparing for laboratory work
  • preparing coursework assignments and presentations
  • preparing for examinations.

You will be taught by an experienced teaching team with expertise and knowledge of Physics, and will have significant interaction with staff within the School. Postgraduate research students who have undertaken teacher training may also contribute to the teaching of laboratory classes and tutorials under the supervision of the module leader.

You can find contact information for all Physics staff on the School of Physics and Astronomy website.

In addition to your studies in the School of Physics and Astronomy, optional academic support is available through practical study skills courses and workshops hosted within the University.

The University’s Student Services team can help students with additional needs resulting from disabilities, long term medical conditions or learning disabilities. More information can be found on the students with disabilities webpage.

Assessment

During first and second year, most modules are assessed by a mix of coursework and written examinations. In Honours years, assessment depends on the nature of the specific module. Most modules give a higher weighting to written examinations, but some are assessed solely through coursework.

Coursework includes:

  • laboratory work
  • classroom tests
  • presentations
  • reviews of research papers
  • tutorial participation.

Most examinations are held at the end of the semester during a dedicated exam diet and revision time is provided beforehand.

The School aims to provide feedback on assessments and coursework within a time specified for the assignment, in some cases two days, in some cases two weeks. Feedback is given with a view to improving your performance in the future.

Undergraduates on the BSc in Physics can find information on progressing through the degree in the Physics programme requirements.

Further information on the University's grading procedure can be found on the common reporting scale webpage.

Fees

Tuition fees for 2019 entry

Scotland and EU £1,820
Rest of the UK £9,250
Overseas £22,350

For overseas students, tuition fees will be fixed at this level for the duration of your programme.

More information on tuition fees can be found on the undergraduate fees and funding page.

Additional costs

There are no additional fees for labs or lab equipment in the School. Most students in the 'Transferable Skills for Physicists' module are expected to attend the Burn Conference, and are asked to make a contribution (currently £30) towards the costs of the weekend.

In line with University policy, the School expects its students to purchase a number of textbooks as part of their study.

Accommodation fees

Find out about accommodation fees for University accommodation.

Funding and scholarships

The University of St Andrews offers a number of scholarships and support packages to undergraduate students each year. These include scholarships designated for the School's students on the Gateway and traditional entry routes, which are awarded primarily on the basis of financial need.

Find out more about undergraduate scholarships.

Joint Honours degrees

You can take Physics as part of a joint Honours degree alongside one of the following subjects.

  • Computer Science
  • Mathematics
  • Philosophy

Your future

Careers

Graduates in Physics have developed important skills in critical analysis, problem-solving, mathematical and computational modelling, communication, designing experiments, making accurate measurements and analysing results that make them well qualified for a career in science and in various areas outside science such as the financial services. 

At the end of your degree, you will be equipped with the following skills that are valued in a wide range of occupations:

  • ability to determine what information is needed to solve a problem, and a knowledge of where to find or generate such information
  • applicable mathematical and computational techniques and where to use them
  • knowledge and understanding of fundamental physical laws and principles
  • ability to analyse data and evaluate the level of uncertainty in results
  • identification of relevant principles and laws of physics when dealing with problems
  • communication skills including the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.

Graduates from the School of Physics and Astronomy have found employment in fields including:

  • banking and commerce
  • biophysics
  • computing
  • geophysics
  • meteorology
  • research and development in industry and in government agencies
  • software development.

The Careers Centre offers one-to-one advice to all students as well as a programme of events to assist students to build their employability skills.

Study abroad

The University is delighted to offer undergraduates a number of exciting opportunities to apply to spend a semester or year abroad as part of a St Andrews degree programme. St Andrews is partnered with large and small institutions, ancient and young, across the globe. What unites all of our programmes is the quality of the academic provision, ensuring that participation in a St Andrews Study abroad programme opens the door to a new and valuable academic experience at another world-class institution. Study Abroad for credit is permitted on existing University-approved programmes only.

Student life

From the outset, the University of St Andrews offers an array of events and opportunities which result in a truly unique student experience. Students come from across Scotland, across the UK, and around the world to join an international community of students and staff, and all join the University from a wide variety of backgrounds.

The relatively small size of the town means that students get to meet easily with many other students. Some of the optional student traditions help with this mixing. Most entrant students live in University-managed accommodation. There are over 150 student societies and sports clubs to choose from. This can all help to ensure a community feel amongst students from first year onwards. 

Students of Physics may be interested in joining the following student societies:

  • Astronomy Society (Astrosoc) runs a range of events from stargazing to an annual ball. 
  • Physics Society (PhySoc) promotes the understanding and enjoyment of physics. PhySoc hosts a number of events including lectures, an annual ball, day trips and pub nights.
  • Mathematical Society (SUMS) organises talks on mathematics as well as lunchtime gatherings and pub nights.
  • St Andrews Engineering Group is a group of students with a passion for engineering who complete yearly projects. 

The School of Physics and Astronomy is situated in a modern building located on the western edge of the town. Most teaching is conducted in this building, which includes a library (with two group study rooms) as well as computing and research facilities specifically for the use of Astrophysics and Physics students.

The town of St Andrews itself has lots to offer. As the campus is located around town, walking around you encounter ancient and modern buildings and areas of greenery and seaside which provide a rich, beautiful backdrop to learning. If you want a change of scenery, St Andrews' position near surrounding towns and cities such as Anstruther, Dundee and Edinburgh make it ideal for getting to know more about Scotland.

Find out more about student life at the University of St Andrews.

Contact

School of Physics and Astronomy
University of St Andrews
North Haugh
St Andrews
KY16 9SS

Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3111 
Email: physics@st-andrews.ac.uk 

School of Physics and Astronomy website

Policies

Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy.

Curriculum development

As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online. (PDF, 72 KB).

Tuition fees

The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online. (PDF, 84 KB).