Physics

Physics is the most fundamental of the natural sciences, concerned with understanding the laws that govern matter, energy, space and time. From the behaviour of subatomic particles to the large-scale structure of the cosmos, physics seeks to identify the deep principles that unify all physical phenomena. It is a discipline that demands mathematical precision, experimental skill and the imagination to conceptualise phenomena that may lie far beyond everyday experience.

Its discoveries have generated virtually every technology on which modern society depends.

At Nottingham Trent, this four-year programme begins with a foundation year that provides the mathematical and scientific groundwork needed to succeed in a demanding degree. Following the foundation year, you will study classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, astrophysics, condensed matter and nuclear physics, alongside experimental methods, computing and data analysis. The foundation year makes this programme accessible to students who have strong potential but whose entry qualifications do not yet meet the standard entry requirements, and it ensures that all students begin the main degree on a solid footing.

The typical entry tariff is 104 UCAS points.

Physics graduates are among the most versatile and sought-after in the graduate labour market. Careers span research, engineering, data science, finance, technology, energy, healthcare physics, scientific communication, teaching and patent law. The combination of quantitative reasoning and physical intuition that a physics degree develops is valued across almost every sector that works with data or complex systems.

Many graduates continue to postgraduate study, pursuing research in physics, engineering, materials science, astrophysics or related fields.