Physics MPhys/BSc (Hons) at Coventry University

The course aims to provide a solid grounding in understanding fundamental concepts in physics.

You will be taught to translate this understanding into mathematical and computational models, which then allow physical and real world problems to be solved using a variety of tools. Over the course of your studies, you will have the chance to learn a variety of analytical and numerical tools used by physicists to tackle various problems. Learning the scientific process which lies under every area of study can allow you to become a well-trained graduate with strong problem solving skills.

Why Coventry University?

An award-winning university, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible experience. We continue to invest in both our facilities and our innovative approach to education. Our students benefit from industry-relevant teaching, and resources and support designed to help them succeed. These range from our modern library and computing facilities to dedicated careers advice and our impressive Students’ Union activities.

Course information

The physics degree explores phenomena at all length scales, from the sub-atomic level (quantum mechanics) to the macroscopic scale (cosmology), and everything in between. It aims to train you to identify key aspects of physical phenomenon, as well as in the essential approximations required to carry out practical calculations.

An essential part of the course relies on understanding numerical and experimental processes and the uncertainties inherent to measurements. As such, there will be ample opportunity for you to engage with real-world data analysis and experimental techniques using activity-led learning, lab-before-lecture and flipped learning techniques, which have formed a long-standing part of Coventry University’s teaching and learning strategy.

The course will provide opportunities for you to engage in research through your final year project and summer research internships as well as benefitting from an optional industrial placement or study abroad year (subject to availability and application).

The three-year programme may be extended with an optional fourth year of study (subject to suitable performance in Year 3) in order to complete the integrated masters MPhys, which gives more specialised grounding in physics, which is particularly important for those considering a PhD in Physics.

Career prospects

Studying physics helps you develop skills in logical thinking and demonstrates to employers your advanced numerical and analytical ability.

It could give you an advantage in the job market upon successful completion, opening up a wide range of career opportunities in industry, banking, data science, computer analysis and scientific research. You could be employed in a wide variety of roles, for example, as a research scientist, actuary, computer programmer, data analyst or teacher.

To improve your employment prospects and gain valuable professional experience, we strongly encourage you to spend a year on industrial training between Year 2 and Year 3. Our award-winning Faculty careers service, EEC Futures, which won the ‘Best Placement Service in the UK’ award at the National Undergraduate Employability Awards in 2015 and 2016, will provide assistance to help you find an appropriate placement. 

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The University’s Careers and Employability team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Where our graduates work

Previous students on our Mathematics and Physics degrees have worked at a wide range of employers including for example IBM, GSK, Pfizer, Cummins, Scottish Power and Warner Bros.