Swansea University

What you'll study

The programme builds a strong foundation in classical and modern physics during the early years, before introducing specialist modules in particle physics and cosmology. You will study core topics such as mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical and thermal physics, and mathematical methods for physicists. Practical and computational skills are developed through laboratory classes, electronics and programming modules.

• Year 1–2 (Foundations): introductory mechanics and waves, electromagnetism, introductory quantum physics, mathematical methods, experimental physics and laboratory techniques, and computing for physicists.
• Intermediate modules: intermediate quantum mechanics, classical mechanics, statistical physics, electronics and instrumentation, and numerical methods applied to physical problems.
• Specialist particle physics modules: topics typically include particle interactions and symmetries, the Standard Model, experimental techniques in high-energy physics, detectors and accelerators, and data analysis methods used in particle physics.
• Specialist cosmology modules: covering general relativity basics, the expanding Universe, cosmic microwave background, structure formation, dark matter and dark energy, and observational cosmology techniques.
• Computational and data skills: programming, data analysis, and statistical methods tailored to large data sets and experimental pipelines used in particle and cosmological research.
• Research project: a substantial supervised final-year project normally focused on an experimental, computational or theoretical problem in particle physics or cosmology, allowing you to work alongside research-active staff.

Optional modules and project themes may include astrophysics, advanced detectors, condensed matter physics or interdisciplinary topics, and there are opportunities to take a placement year or study abroad where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong background in physics and mathematics. Typical entrants hold qualifications such as A-levels, Scottish Highers, Irish Leaving Certificate or international equivalents, with high grades in Physics and Mathematics. Where physics is not taken at school, some programmes accept applicants with strong mathematics plus a demonstrable aptitude for physics.

• Essential subjects: A-level (or equivalent) in Physics and Mathematics is normally required.
• Typical academic profile: competitive grades at advanced level and solid performance in GCSE-level subjects, including English and Mathematics.
• Alternative qualifications: accepted international qualifications, BTEC (depending on content), Access courses or mature applicant routes; applicants studying other science subjects should check specific entry guidance.
• Other requirements: a personal statement that outlines interest in particle physics and cosmology, and referees are usually required. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet standard English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates gain a versatile skill set in problem solving, quantitative analysis, programming and experimental technique, which is valued across many sectors. Career destinations include:

• Academic or industrial research in particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology, often following postgraduate study (MSc/PhD).
• Roles in data science, software development, machine learning and high-performance computing, leveraging experience with large experimental data sets.
• Engineering and instrumentation, including work on detectors, sensors and accelerator technology.
• Finance, consulting and quantitative analysis roles that use strong mathematical and modelling skills.
• Science communication, teaching and policy roles within government or research councils.

Students who complete a placement year or project with industrial or research partners often move directly into related roles or into competitive postgraduate research programmes.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University has an active physics department with research strengths in particle physics, cosmology, high-energy experiments and instrumentation. The department supports student projects that link to world-class research, and academic staff are engaged in national and international collaborations.

• Research-linked teaching: final-year projects and advanced modules are informed by staff research, giving direct exposure to contemporary problems in particle and cosmological physics.
• Laboratory and computing facilities: well-equipped teaching laboratories, electronics workshops and access to computing resources for numerical simulations and data analysis.
• Industrial and research connections: opportunities to engage with external research centres and collaborations, providing pathways to placements and postgraduate study.
• Student support: small-group teaching, personal tutors and career services help students develop transferable skills and prepare for employment or further research.

The combination of rigorous core training, specialist particle and cosmology modules, and research-led projects makes this degree suitable for students aiming for scientific careers in academia, industry or technology-driven sectors.