Engineering Physics

Engineering physics is the discipline that connects the fundamental science of physics to the practical challenges of engineering and technology. Where pure physics is concerned with understanding how the universe works, engineering physics applies that understanding to the design of devices, systems and materials that do useful things in the real world. Practitioners in this field work across the boundary between research and application, developing the analytical depth of a physicist alongside the practical orientation of an engineer.

At Aberystwyth this five-year full-time programme applies physical principles and techniques to engineering and technology, combining physics knowledge and training with the production of engineering solutions in real-world situations, as the current description notes. The integrated year in industry is a distinctive and important feature, giving you an extended period of professional engineering experience within the five-year programme. You will study quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, optics, solid-state physics and mathematical methods alongside engineering modules covering electronics, instrumentation, signal processing and materials.

The industry year takes you into a working engineering or technology environment where you apply your skills under professional conditions before completing your degree. A typical entry tariff of 120 points reflects the programme's accessible character within the physical sciences.

Engineering physics graduates are valued across a wide range of industries where the combination of deep physical understanding and engineering capability is needed. Common destinations include electronics, semiconductor manufacturing, photonics, aerospace, medical physics, defence technology, renewable energy and scientific instrumentation. Many pursue chartered status through professional engineering institutions.

Others move into research and development roles in industry, or continue to postgraduate study in physics, applied physics, photonics or engineering. The industry year gives graduates a significant practical advantage and often leads directly to a graduate position with the placement employer.