BSc (Hons) Physics · University of SalfordBachelor's degree · 3 years
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The University of Salford · Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Physics Bachelor's degree at the University of Salford

BSc (Hons) Physics at University of Salford is accredited by the Institute of Physics, partially meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist status.

BSc (Hons)
Award
3
Years
Full-time
Study mode
90%
in work/study (15m)

About this course

Take your passion for physics further with a Physics degree at the University of Salford. Research-led teaching. Institute of Physics-accredited. Apply Now. From the provider’s course page.

BSc (Hons) Physics is a Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons)) at the University of Salford. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.

For Physics graduates from this provider, 90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 45% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £24,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)

For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Physics & Chemistry, see the sections below.

Course evidence score

The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.

8.6
/ 10
Excellent
3 of 3 official measures
Student satisfaction
What students say in the National Student Survey
Excellent88

Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Graduate outcomes
In work or further study 15 months after graduating
Exceptional90

Limited evidence Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 90% (2021-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Continuation
Students who continue past their first year
Excellent80

Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 80% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Curriculum & modules

Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.

Year one 6 modules
  • Physics in ContextCore
    Module details

    This module focuses on the underlying skills required in science and engineering. You will learn the importance of units, dimensional analysis, problem solving, presentation skills. We will also review the use of scientific IT, and introduce CAD/CAM and its application. The module content will also highlight the relationship between these underlying skills and their role for scientists and engineers in the workplace. Seminars from various physics-based industrial organisations will give you the

  • Physics Laboratory 1Core
    Module details

    In Physics Laboratory 1, you will learn core laboratory skills including measurement, data analysis and electronics. During the module activities, you will use these skills to undertake a set of experiments designed to complement the core physics ideas presented in other course modules. The module is taught in the laboratory, facilitated by academic and technical staff.

  • Modelling of Physical SystemsCore
    Module details

    The use of computers to support problem solving in physics is widespread in both academic and industrial research. During this module, you will explore the application of numerical modelling, demonstrating how it can be complementary to mathematical-based analytical techniques, often allowing the examination the characteristics beyond the limitations of standard approaches. The learning focus is on developing appropriate physical models and is applied to the core areas of mechanics, waves and th

  • Electricity, Magnetism and LightCore
    Module details

    During this module, you will learn about the physical laws associated with electricity and magnetism and how the motion of charged particles is governed by electric and magnetic fields. Module content will also introduce the properties of electromagnetic waves. The module is taught using a combination of lectures and interactive workshops.

  • Mechanics, Relativity and Quantum PhysicsCore
    Module details

    During this module, you will learn about the laws and applications of classical mechanics, and how the principles of relativity and quantum physics adapt these laws to describe motion at relativistic speeds and of very small entities such as atoms and electrons. The module is taught using a combination of lectures and interactive workshops.

  • MathematicsCore
    Module details

    Understanding and using mathematics is an essential skill for success in physics. During this module, you will review A-level standard mathematics topics covering algebra, trigonometry, functions, geometry, vectors, complex numbers and calculus, with emphasis on learning their applications to physics.

Year two 7 modules
  • Quantum PhysicsCore
    Module details

    In this module, you will learn about the origins and principles of quantum mechanics. Both Schrödinger's wave equation and the matrix formalism of quantum mechanics will be introduced, with applications in the fields of atoms and electrons. The module is delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

  • Physics Laboratory 2Core
    Module details

    During Physics Laboratory 2, you will learn about experimental and computational methods applied in physics. You will undertake a series of experiments across a range of areas in physics, learn how to record results and link your findings to laws of physics. You will further develop computing skills and apply these to simulations in physics. The module is delivered in laboratory settings with instruction and hands-on help.

  • Waves and OpticsCore
    Module details

    Learn about principles of wave motion applied to mechanical, sound and electromagnetic waves. The module will introduce wave interference and build your understanding of diffraction in optical systems and applications. The module will also introduce underlying mathematical techniques including partial differential equations, Fourier transforms and convolutions. The module is delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

  • Thermal PhysicsCore
    Module details

    During this module, you will learn about the laws of thermal physics and how the statistical properties of many particle systems relate to the laws in macroscopic systems. We will also introduce the concept of entropy and build your understanding of different states of matter. The module is delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

  • ElectromagnetismCore
    Module details

    You will learn about the fundamental laws of electromagnetism leading to the development of Maxwell's equations and the electromagnetic wave equation. Underlying mathematical techniques, including vector calculus, will be introduced alongside the physical laws. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

  • Principles of AcousticsOptional
    Module details

    This module provides a general introduction into the subject of Physical Acoustics with an emphasis on sound radiation.

  • Group Project in PhysicsOptional
    Module details

    This module is designed to bring together important aspects that are related to physics-based project work. You will learn: the use of CAD/CAM software in the context of design and development of complex scientific parts and models; how to construct simple sensor circuits and write interface software allowing automatic data collection; experimental design and construction, incorporating the CAD/CAM; and, interface skills, time management, teamwork and written/oral presentation skills via a group

Year three 5 modules
  • Project in PhysicsCore
    Module details

    Working under the supervision of academic staff, you will conduct a research and/or development project. You will initially conduct background research into your chosen scientific area and produce a literature review highlighting the important history and progress made. You will learn to work independently and be responsible for your progress (monitored by your supervisor). As part of your final assessment, you produce a professional scientific report outlining the progress made and present this

  • Nuclear and Particle PhysicsOptional
    Module details

    You will receive an overview of Nuclear Physics and gain an understanding of nuclear stability in terms of the Liquid Drop Model and of nuclear reactions involving neutrons, protons, electrons and neutrinos, and major experimental techniques and practical applications. The particle physics element will cover the basic discoveries of modern Particle Physics and introduce the ideas of Grand Unified Theory.

  • Physics Laboratory 3Optional
    Module details

    This module concentrates on the advanced physics laboratory skills required in science, engineering and the workplace. You can choose to focus on either experimental or computational physics. You will build knowledge and gain the ability to use and understand the methodologies that underpin hi-tech materials deposition and analysis apparatus. Throughout the module, we will highlight the relationship between the module topics and their role to scientists and engineers in the workplace.

  • Condensed Matter PhysicsOptional
    Module details

    You will learn how the fundamental laws of physics determine the properties of solids and liquids. The physics behind semiconductors and devices, magnetism and superconductivity will be developed. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and problem solving tutorials.

  • Astrophysics and Planetary PhysicsOptional
    Module details

    Learn about the evolution of the universe, the structure and evolution of stars and galaxies and fundamental ideas in cosmology. In the planetary physics elements, you will learn about planetary formation, structure and the properties of matter under extreme conditions as found in the interior of planets. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and problem solving tutorials.

Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.

Course in depth

What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.

What you'll study

This research-led Physics degree builds from foundational principles to specialist study and independent investigation. You'll usually start with core physics covering mechanics, matter and energy, alongside mathematics for scientists and laboratory skills. In Year 2, the course moves to quantum and thermal physics, advanced experiments and scientific computing, then mathematical methods for solving real problems. By Year 3, you'll choose specialist options such as astrophysics, materials science, quantum science, computational methods or a research placement, alongside advanced topics taught by active researchers. You'll complete a supervised research project in a physics group, culminating in a degree-level investigation of your own.

Who it's for

This course suits students with strong A-level physics or equivalent background who want to develop both theoretical understanding and practical research skills. It's designed for those considering careers in physics, engineering, research, or related technical fields, as well as those planning further postgraduate study. The professional accreditation makes it particularly relevant if you're aiming towards Chartered Physicist status.

Careers & job market

Across Physics and Chemistry courses nationally, 85% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating. Of those working, 75% are in highly skilled roles or continuing their studies. National graduate earnings data shows starting salaries (at 15 months) typically range from £26,500 to £34,000, rising to £30,600–£43,200 after five years. Check the university's funding pages for information on bursaries and scholarships.

University & format

The University of Salford is a public university in Salford, founded in 1896. This is a 3-year, full-time BSc (Hons) Physics degree taught in English. The course is accredited by the Institute of Physics for partially meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist status. You'll earn a nationally recognised UK degree.

Student satisfaction

How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.

The teaching on my course
88%
Learning opportunities
88%
Assessment and feedback
85%
Academic Support
96%
Organisation and management
86%
Learning resources
94%
Student voice
82%

Share of students responding positively.

Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)

Applicant information

The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.

Application timelineWhat happens next
  1. 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted

    Your application needs a reference before you can send it.

  2. 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications

    Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.

  3. 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice

    Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.

  4. 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline

    18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.

Show 5 later dates
  1. 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens

    Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.

  2. 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers

    Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.

  3. 2027 entryClearing opens

    Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.

  4. 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications

    Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.

  5. 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice

    Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.

PlacementPublished placement option

Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.

Open daysRegister for our next Open Day

See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.

Entry & how to get in

Most entrants held A-levels or equivalent85% of accepted students came in with A-levels or equivalent (entrants over recent years).
Typical UCAS tariff: 80 - 95 pointsThe most common UCAS tariff band among accepted students. This is what entrants had, not a stated requirement.
Professionally accreditedAccredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of partially meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist
Entry requirements are set by the universityGrades, subjects and contextual offers vary. Check the University of Salford's official course page for the current offer.

Who gets in

What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.

UCAS tariff of entrants

Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.

Qualifications held on entry

QualificationShare
A-levels or equivalent85%
a previous degree5%
another higher-education qualification5%

Entry & your chances

An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.

Accessible entry

Accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications and UCAS points. If you're worried about grades, this course has historically taken a wide range, and contextual offers may apply.

Will you get in? Plot your grades

Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.

Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.

Add your grades to see where you land

Your points will drop onto the distribution above, with an honest above / within / below read.

Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.

How to apply

Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.

Apply by13 January 2027, 18:00 UK timefor this course
Typical gradesCCDA-level equivalent admitted students held
  1. 1
    Register on UCAS Hub

    Create your UCAS application and add this course. One application covers up to five choices.

  2. 2
    Write your personal statement

    A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.

  3. 3
    Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time

    UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.

  4. 4
    Reply to your offers

    When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.

  5. 5
    Results day & confirmation

    On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.

💡 Many universities make a contextual (reduced-grade) offer, for example based on your school’s results, time in care, or where you live. Ask University of Salford whether you’re eligible before you apply; it can lower the grades you need.

Fees & funding

What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.

Tuition per year

Homeup to £9,790 / yr
International£18,600 / yr

Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).

Check fees at University of Salford →

For students who normally live in England

illustrative Maintenance Loan per year
£9,790tuition used per year, illustrative full-time England fee-cap scenario
illustrative borrowing over 3 years

2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.

Starting on or after 1 January 2027?

The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.

Paying for it

  • Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
  • Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
  • Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
  • Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.

England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.

Funding matched to this course

Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for

All University of Salford funding →
No verified named award is shown for this provider yet.

That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.

We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.

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Still deciding what to study?

StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.

Career quizApplication walkthroughSalary & CV check

Careers & earnings

What Physics & Chemistry graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.

Graduate earnings: this course

WhenMedianTypical rangeGraduates
15 months after£24,000£19,000 – £30,00015
3 years after£25,500£18,500 – £33,00050
5 years after£34,000£23,500 – £41,00050

Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Limited evidence. Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23.

Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course

90%
in work or further study 15 months on
45%
in highly skilled work or study
80%
continue past their first year
100%
find their work meaningful
50%
say work fits their future plans
  1. 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
  2. 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in physics & chemistry · 2–5 yrs
  3. 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
  4. 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs

How pay grows: this course vs Physics & Chemistry nationally

Starting (15 months) HESA GO
£24,000
£26,500 – £34,000
After 3 years LEO
£25,500
£24,650 – £34,800
After 5 years LEO
£34,000
£30,600 – £43,200
national rangethis course’s medianaxis £22,500 – £45,000

National figures for Physics & Chemistry graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.

Work out your pay

Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.

What happened to 100 students?

Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.

90 of 100

were in work or further study

15 months after graduation

70% working10% working and studying15% in further study45% in highly skilled work or study

Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2021-23. Limited evidence. Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.

Value compared with similar courses

How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Physics & Chemistry courses at the same study level.

This course £34,000Peer median £36,000Middle 50% £32,000–£38,500
37th percentile

Compared with 886 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.

UK occupations graduates enter

Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.

  • Elementary occupationsSOC 2020 9 · 20% of published destinations · ASHE median £19,087
  • Managers, directors and senior officialsSOC 2020 1 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £51,733
  • Business and public service associate professionalsSOC 2020 35 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £38,760

Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 30; response rate: 70%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.

Job market & outlook

How Physics & Chemistry graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.

85%
in work or further study 15 months after graduating, across Physics & Chemistry courses nationally.
Graduate Outcomes
75%
of working graduates are in highly skilled work or further study.
highly skilled
90%
of students continue past their first year (still enrolled or completed).
continuation

How AI is changing the work

AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.

What AI takes off your plate

  • Routine information gathering
  • First-draft writing and summaries
  • Standard analysis and admin
  • Repetitive processing tasks

More human than ever

  • Judgement and original thinking
  • Working with and leading people
  • Owning and sense-checking AI output
  • Ethics and accountability

The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.

Roles & employers

Where Physics & Chemistry graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.

Where they work

  • Research institutes
  • Energy & manufacturing
  • Universities
  • Government labs

Is this course right for you?

The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.

💷

Student finance

For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.

📈

Where graduates go

90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £24,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.

🎯

Your entry chances

Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.

Official-data snapshot

Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.6 out of 10: NSS 88.4% · in work or study 90% · continued 80%.

Who studies here and in this subject?

Provider- and UK subject-level context.

The University of Salford

All students26,030
International19.1%
Aged 25+31.8%

Physical sciences across the UK

Students64,325
Aged 25+17.8%

HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.

Local crime-data context

A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.

Around Salford University

10 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.

Violent Crime 7Other Crime 1Other Theft 1Theft From The Person 1

Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.

Is Physics & Chemistry right for you?

Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.

International students

What applying to University of Salford from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.

Tuition fees

International tuition is £18,600 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.

English language

Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.

Student visa

You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.

Scholarships & funding

Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check University of Salford’s funding pages.

Living costs

Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.

Working while you study

A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.

Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with University of Salford and gov.uk before you apply.

Common questions

Entry is historically accessible, accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications. The most common tariff band among recent entrants was 80 - 95 UCAS points. Use the calculator on this page to see where your predicted grades would put you; many universities also make lower contextual offers.
Set by the University of Salford. Most accepted students held A-levels or equivalent. Check the university's course page for the exact offer.
For Physics graduates from this provider, 90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 45% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £24,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years. See Fees & funding on this page to work out your numbers.
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