Physics Degrees

Physics Degrees help us with urge to understand the world around us. This leads us to ask questions such as "How does a mobile phone work?" "How does the Sun keep on shining?" "What is dark matter?" "What are the ultimate constituents of matter?" "How did the Universe begin?" If you find that the more answers you discover, the more questions you want to ask, then you're on the road to becoming a physicist, and should be considering taking a physics course through higher education.

Physics and physics degrees as well as being concerned with deep fundamental questions, physics forms the basis of most present and future technology. Without an understanding of the basic physics of a problem, we'd be shooting in the dark. For example, when compact disc players were developed, it was crucial that the physics of solid-state lasers and the interaction of light with matter were well understood. This in turn depended on an understanding of atomic physics and quantum mechanics. Other new technological developments depend on modern physics in a similar way.

Physics uncovers is the complexity of the world around us, there is an underlying simplicity and unity in nature. This is often expressed through all-embracing fundamental concepts, such as the principle of conservation of energy. Such concepts, when put to work using mathematics, provide explanations for how things happen. Research at the frontiers of physics leads to a deeper understanding of the way things work and how matter behaves in difficult circumstances, and from this understanding follow the many practical applications of physics. Indeed, physics is the basis for most forms of engineering and the other sciences.
 Apart from its importance and flexibility, physics is fascinating and can be fun. At its heart, physics is about finding things out - about understanding what lies behind everyday phenomena like rainbows, red sunsets and blue skies, as well as the more revolutionary concepts of quantum theory, relativity and cosmology. Physics research can be very creative and stimulating, with lots of opportunity for contributing your own ideas. Don't overlook the fact that if you take a degree in physics, within just three or four years time you could be a member of a team involved in a major research project!

Studying Physics Degrees
Physics degrees are available at most universities throughout the UK. Most UK Universities offer two types of undergraduate degree - a Bachelors degree (BSc) typically of three years duration or a Masters degree (MSci or MPhys) of around four years. The courses also cover a wide variety of topics, with many institutions offering modules in medical physics, astronomy, space science, applied physics and other related topics. The modular course structure at many universities means that you can tailor your course to fit your interests and career aspirations.

Some universities also offer courses where you can incorporate industrial placements and other work experience into your studies. This is a great opportunity for you to try out your chosen career. Most universities specialize within certain areas of physics. Whilst their undergraduates will study across a broad spectrum, you will find that the researchers work in only four or five regions. This means that you can select an institution where world-leading researchers are working at the front line of scientific discovery that interests you.

Studying in the UK is an enjoyable experience, with all universities boasting a vast range of student societies that will offer you the opportunity to try new activities. Whether you want to do conservation work, write for the student newspaper, learn to sail a boat or ballroom dance, there will be a group ready to help you. A high number of universities have a Physics Society that organizes events in addition to your academic course, such as inviting guest speakers, arranging tours of research facilities and industrial sites and holding social functions that provide an excellent opportunity to meet the more senior physicists at your department.
 A great number of international students come to the UK from all over the world, so you will never be the only person who is not local. In fact, many universities have an International Office to support you through your studies and organize events where you can meet up with other international students and share your experiences.

Employment opportunities are good for those with physics qualifications. Most enjoy good salaries and work in diverse areas, from finance to research. Once you have a physics degree, you have set yourself up for a successful career, no matter what field you eventually work in.

The Institute of Physics
The Institute of Physics is the UK-based professional body for physicists, and can help you to obtain internationally recognised professional status, such as Chartered Physicist (CPhys) and Chartered Engineer (CEng). To help you choose a physics course in the UK, the Institute of Physics produces a free guidebook, entitled 'Physics on Course', which details all the tertiary physics courses available in the country.

To receive this or any other information about studying Physics in the UK, please contact: The Institute of Physics: www.iop.org

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