myPhysicsCourse

What does the symbol mean?
This symbol shows that there is additional note relating to the course. To display the note, scroll over the symbol with your mouse to reveal the information.

What do the abbreviations used for subjects mean?
The abbreviations refer to the subjects that are required (e.g. at A-level) for entry on to the course. To display the subject(s) required, scroll over the symbol with your mouse. The abbreviations used are also listed below.

• P - Physics
• M - Maths
• C - Chemistry
• PS - Physical science
• E - Engineering
• B - Biology
• Mus - Music
• CS - Computer science
• F - French
• FM - Further maths
• Engl - English
• ... - Any A-level or equivalent subject

What is an accredited or recognised degree?
Physics and related degree courses can be accredited or recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP). Accredited degree programmes give a solid grounding in all of the core areas of physics and those that study these courses are eligible for professional awards such as chartered physicist. Recognised degree programmes contain sufficient physics for membership of IOP. Such programmes tend to be more interdisciplinary in nature and the amount and breadth of physics covered can be variable

Find out more at www.iop.org/accreditation.

What is the difference between "Physics and..." course, compared to "Physics with..." courses?
For degrees that combine two different subjects the relative weighting between physics and the second subject is indicated by the degree title. "Physics with..." degrees (e.g. physics with German) are courses that have physics as the major component (around 70-80% of the degree) with the rest of the time spent on the second subject, while "physics and..." degrees (e.g. physics and mathematics) devote roughly equal amounts of time to physics and the second subject.

What is the difference between a Bachelors (Bsc/BA) and a Masters (MPhys/MSci) degree?
An integrated masters degree, either Master of Physics (MPhys) or a Master in Science (MSci) are degrees for those that are considering becoming a professional physicist. These degrees are a year longer than the standard bachelors (BSc or BA) courses; the extra time is spent learning skills that will help you to bridge the gap between an undergraduate degree and postgraduate research. Most universities also give you the option of changing between a BSc/BA and MPhys/MSci degree during the first or second year. Note: MSci degrees are different from the postgraduate Master of Science (MSc), which is a one-year stand-alone qualification.

Where can I find out more information about careers from physics?
You can find out more about what careers physics graduates pursue by visiting the study and careers sections of www.physics.org, or by visiting the careers section of the IOP web-site www.iop.org/careers.