Physics, MPhys (Hons)

3rd in the UK for Teaching Quality

Guardian University Guide 2025

Image

It's not too late to start studying with us this September/October.

See our clearing pages for more information.

Course Overview

Physics combines analytical reasoning and problem solving using the language of mathematics to understand the universe. If you have a deep desire to understand how everything works, from the subatomic quantum world to the vastness of the cosmos, and are motivated to become a professional physicist, then our four-year MPhys Physics degree is ideally suited for you. 

You will learn physical concepts and mathematical techniques and apply them to understand advances in quantum information, cosmology, semiconductors, lasers, nuclear & particle physics. 

In the final year of this programme you will study from a selection of advanced modules on topics including machine learning, quantum information, and quantum field theory and black hole physics. 

You will work on a year long advanced MPhys project and learn how to do research at the cutting edge in these fields, under the supervision of internationally recognised academics.

Why Physics at Swansea?

  • 11th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2025)

  • 3rd in the UK for Teaching Quality (Guardian University Guide 2025)

  • Top 201-250 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025)

  • 97% of Physics graduates are in employment and/or study, or doing other activities such as travelling 15 months after leaving Swansea Univeristy (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025)

Physics at Swansea University is a highly regarded degree that attracts students from across the world.

Your learning will be shaped by inspiring and internationally-renowned academics including Professor Mike Charlton. Professor Charlton and his team developed innovative techniques that led to the trapping and studying of antihydrogen atoms.

Your Physics Experience

  • A flexibly structured degree path means you have the opportunity to study abroad for a year or work in industry for a year, either locally, nationally or overseas.
  • Our common student & staff space (the Event Horizon) overlooking spectacular views of Swansea Bay, provides an ideal location for quiet study, informal discussions and lunches.
  • The Physics department and the Swansea University Physics Society sponsor frequent social, and academic events such as departmental colloquia and distinguished lectures to bring students and staff together.
  • Elected student reps for each year and for the Swansea University Physics Society (PhySoc) ensure that every student voice is heard through regular meetings with HoDs.
  • Our world leading research groups in Particle Physics and Cosmology Theory, Applied Materials, and the ALPHA anti-matter collaboration with close ties to CERN, ensure that our teaching is informed by the latest research. Students have the opportunity to do a summer internship or undertake a final year project (typically at Master’s level) with the ALPHA group at CERN in Geneva.

Physics Employment Opportunities

Our graduates have become data scientists, AI engineers, demand forecasters, quantitative finance analysts, electromagnetic signature analysts, cost draftsmen, patent examiners and software engineers in sectors which include government research, the private sector, aerospace, defence, energy, engineering and space exploration.

A significant percentage of our graduates go on to pursue postgraduate studies and research with a wide variety of specialisations.

5 reasons to study Physics at Swansea

Take a tour of our facilities with Saba

Modules

You will follow a degree path of the following compulsory and optional 10 and 20 credit modules, with a 60-credit project module in your final year.

Physics, MPhys (Hons)

Physics with a Year Abroad, MPhys (Hons)

Physics with a Year in Industry, MPhys (Hons)