University of Southampton

Physics (BSc)

University of SouthamptonHighfield, Southampton

Course overview

On this BSc Physics degree you'll study time and space as you explore the physical theories that help us understand our universe. You'll also gain advanced analytical, mathematical and computing skills, valued by recruiters in a wide range of professions. You’ll immerse yourself in fascinating topics such as quantum mechanics, special relativity and the evolution of galaxies.

You'll develop the skills to become a physicist as you choose from a range of optional modules in every year of study. You'll carry out real research projects. Recent examples have involved making high-temperature superconductors, building a laser and determining the mass of cluster galaxies.

General Relativity is another popular study option - we are one of only a few UK universities to offer this as part of an undergraduate physics degree. You can also choose a minor subject in an unrelated field alongside your main degree. The first 2 years of this programme are the same as the physics master's, which means you

Key highlights

  • Topics include quantum mechanics, special relativity and the evolution of galaxies
  • Real research projects, such as building a laser or making superconductors
  • General Relativity option, offered by only a few UK universities to undergraduates
  • Optional modules available in every year of study
  • Option to take a minor subject in an unrelated field
  • Develops advanced analytical, mathematical and computing skills valued by recruiters

Entry requirements

  • A-level: AAA-AAB — including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A) or AABC including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A) - ABBC including grades AB in physics and either mathematics or further mathematics Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview
  • A-level: AAB — to include including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathemat; with EPQ
  • A-level: AA — to include including physics and either mathematics or further mathematics; combined with BTEC

Scholarships

  • Biological Sciences Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Business School Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Economic, Social and Political Sciences Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Education School Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Engineering Global Talent Scholarship

    Up to 5 scholarships of £2,000 are available to international students for the first 3 years of study on an undergraduate degree within the School of Engineering.

    Up to £2,000

  • Geography and Environmental Science Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Health Sciences Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Law School Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Ocean and Earth Science Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Physics and Astronomy Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Psychology Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • School of Mathematical Sciences Undergraduate International Scholarship

    Up to £4,500 off the first year of tuition fees.

  • Southampton Arts and Humanities Deans Global Talent Scholarship

    Successful applicants will get £10,000 towards their tuition fees.

    Up to £10,000

  • Southampton Chemistry Deans International Scholarship

    If you are awarded this scholarship, you'll get £5,000 towards your tuition fees in your first year of study.

    Up to £5,000

  • Southampton Electronics and Computer Science Global Scholarship

    There are 12 scholarships for £5000 each.

    Up to £5,000

  • Southampton Physics and Astronomy Achievement Scholarship

    The scholarships are renewable for subsequent years of study (subject to continuing academic performance) for up to £20,000 total. There are 10 stipend scholarships of £5,000.

    Up to £5,000

Careers this course leads to

  • Physicist
  • Research scientist
  • Data scientist
  • Software developer
  • Medical physicist
  • Physics teacher

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,535 per year | International: £31,000 per year

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Southampton, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

Ready to start?

Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to a September 2025 place.

Apply Now
Download Free Guide