Physics A Level
Qualification: GCE A Level in Physics
Exam Board & Specification Code: OCR; H556; Specification
Course Entry Requirements: 4 in English Language GCSE and 6 in Maths GCSE and 2x Grade 6s in 2 Science GCSEs (Physics plus one other, Combined Science accepted but not Applied Science) Please make sure that you have understood the overall entry requirements to study at BHASVIC. These are available here and outline the GCSE grades you need to take up one of the Study Programmes at the college.
Length and size of qualification: 2 year single course
Timetable hours: 4.5 hours per week
Assessment method: 3 exams and a practical assessment
BHASVIC Department: Chemistry and Physics
What will I study?
You will study forces, motion, electrons, waves and photons in the first year. Throughout this subject and especially in the second year you will apply your knowledge to astrophysics, motion and electromagnetism. You will learn how to use physical quantities and units, scalars and vectors. Practical work is an important aspect, and students generally do one a week (no separate coursework component); students keep a lab book to evidence their skills. Goes well with Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Computing in particular.
Is this course right for me?
Successful physics students enjoy maths and particularly algebra. They are curious about how things work and thrive on the challenges of problem solving. They work effectively both on their own and in groups. They work carefully and with precision in both their practical and written work. Students will succeed most if they are self-motivated independent learners. Flipped learning is used for all topics, lessons are interactive and build upon independent study. There are lots of opportunities to get help and support from the department. Mathematical fluency is vital for success at A level. We run an ‘in-house’ Maths for Physics course for students who do not do A level Maths but this does not lead to a qualification. If you want to study Physics at University you must study Maths A level as well.
Where next?
A Physics A level is a great starting point for a career in scientific research, as well as in a range of careers in business, finance, IT, astrophysics, geophysics, materials science, forensic science, medical science (e.g. Medical Physicist) and engineering. Physics will help you to build up your problem solving, research, and analytical skills. With these skills you will be able to test out new ideas plus question and investigate other peoples’ theories, which is useful for any kind of job that involves research or debate. Job roles where Physics is useful would include: Metallurgist, Nanotechnologist, Radiation Protection Practitioner, Teacher. Jobs where your degree would be useful include: Investment Analyst, Meteorologist, Nuclear Engineer, Operational Researcher, Patent Attorney, PPC Specialist and Systems Developer. Useful websites include the Institute of Physics, Physics.org, All About Careers and The Apprenticeship Guide.
Apply View DepartmentLast year, 32 BHASVIC students went onto study Physics related degrees at 24 different universities.
Our science students can choose a combined science degree (e.g. Physics with Particle Physics and Cosmology) or choose an Engineering route. It is worth noting that many Physics students go onto a wide variety of Engineering courses.
Popular universities include Edinburgh, Exeter, Bristol and Leeds and Material Science at Imperial and Material Science and Engineering at Oxford. Please also see our Engineering information.
Should I study Physics at degree level?
Are you fascinated by how the universe works or the structure of materials? Physics is the study of the nature and properties of matter and energy from the tiny sub-atomic particle to vast galaxies. You will have about 20 hours of teaching each week, mainly lectures, but also tutorials and laboratory experiments. Contact time is higher studying science degrees due to lab work. Modules might include Laboratory physics, Contemporary physics, Mathematical techniques, Quantum physics, Plasma and fluids and Stellar physics.
Types of Physics degree
You can choose to study Physics or a closely related subject, for example:
- Astrophysics
- Theoretical
Physics also combines well with other subjects or may well have a focus on research or industry placements.
Entry Requirements
A-levels (or equivalent) usually required Physics. It may be useful to have Chemistry or Mathematics depending on the degree choice.
Top Universities for Physics
Oxford, Durham, St Andrews, Imperial, Birmingham
Warwick, Lancaster, Nottingham, Exeter – all very high student satisfaction scores
UCL, Bristol, York, Liverpool - all with top graduate prospects
Many of our students choose a combined degree - applications from our students have included:
- Physics with Quantum Technologies with Foundation Year
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Mathematics and Physics (Placement)
- Theoretical Physics
Example entry requirements:
A-Level/BTEC equivalents (please check):
Imperial College/A*AA
Sussex/AAA
York/BBC
Why not try a foundation degree or higher apprenticeship?
For example: Range of opportunities National Physics Laboratory
Some examples of Physics-related degrees that our BHASVIC students have gone onto study in the past few years are:
- Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Aerospace Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Aeronautics and Astronautics / Spacecraft Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering including an Industrial Year
- Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies
- Automotive Engineering
- Automotive and Transport Design
- Chemical and Nuclear Engineering
- Design Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Innovation
- Electronic and Information Engineering
- Electronic Engineering with Artificial Intelligence
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Robotics
- Engineering Mathematics
- Geophysics
- Industrial Design and Technology
- Materials Science
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mathematics and Physics
- Mathematics with Applied Mathematics/Mathematical Physics
- Mechanical Engineering including an Industrial Year
- Mechanical Engineering with International Study
- Mechanical Engineering/Mechatronics
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Robotics Engineering
- Music and Sound Recording (Tonmeister)
- Music, Multimedia and Electronics
- Physics and Philosophy
- Physics with Astrophysics
- Physics with Particle Physics and Cosmology
- Physics with Quantum Technologies with Foundation Year
- Physics with Study Abroad in a Modern Language
- Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology
- Physics with Medical Applications
- Physics with Scientific Computing
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Robotics (with Foundation Year)
- Ship Science
- Theoretical Physics
How BHASVIC helps: We have a wide range of information and resources to support students applying for university including subject area guides, personal statement and UCAS resources, super-curricular activity guides, open day and bursary information. We also cover university research, careers, art foundation and all other destinations in depth in tutorial and students can choose an appropriate pathway for them in the second year from UCAS, Employability & Enterprise, Visual Arts, Oxbridge and Medics. Our Spring Futures Fair brings in a huge number of university visitors with workshops and information stands and departments will bring speakers in wherever possible.
Studying physics is a great starting point for a career in scientific research, as well as business, finance, IT and engineering sectors:
- Material Science (a real growth area)
- Engineer
- Investment analyst
- Meteorologist
- Nuclear engineer
- Acoustic consultant
- Operational researcher
- Patent attorney
- Field Seismologist
- Research scientist (physical sciences)
- Metallurgist
- Software engineer
Career Prospects
Although the subject has seen a bit of resurgence in recent years, the UK is still felt to be short of physics graduates, and in particular physicists training as teachers.
If you want a career in research – in all sorts of areas, from atmospheric physics to lasers - you'll probably need to take a doctorate, the government funds many physics doctorates. Physics is highly regarded and surprisingly versatile, which is why physics students who decide not to stay in education are more likely to go into well-paid jobs in the finance industry than they are to go into science. IT and engineering – also commanding decent salaries - are other popular industries for physics graduates.
Local Market Information
STEAM
Coast to Capital have contributed £8million to the newly opened Engineering and Digital Technology Park at the University of Chichester. This has created a new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) facility for Engineering and Creative and Digital Technology degree students which has the backing of over 40 industry organisations.
Examples of apprenticeships and opportunities include:
- Simulation Technician Apprenticeship BOEING DEFENCE UK
- Jaguar Landrover Service Technician
- Degree Apprenticeship in Electronic Engineering
How BHASVIC helps: We have an excellent Careers Hub and careers advisors who are available for appointments through student services. Local jobs are advertised and they will advise on skills and specialist areas such as degree apprenticeships. Students can choose an appropriate pathway for them in the second year from UCAS, Employability & Enterprise, Visual Arts, Oxbridge and Medics. Our Spring Futures Fair brings in a huge number of careers & apprenticeship visitors with workshops and information stands and departments will bring speakers in around the subject area.
You will gain many transferable skills studying Physics that will be valued in the workplace including:
Teamwork, IT & Technology, Problem solving, Social Skills, Organisation, Numeracy, Communication, Attention to detail, Creative thinking, Analytics, Project Management
Local Skills
The Local Skills agenda considers job prospects and employment in our local area of Sussex. Many of our students will contribute to the National Skills agenda and go onto find a career in a wide range of sectors. For students in Sussex our local skills are identified as the following sectors:
- Construction
- Creative & Cultural
- Digital (includes IT and Technology)
- Engineering & Manufacturing
- Healthcare (includes Bio Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical)
- Visitor & Hospitality
- Land-based (includes Agriculture and Viticulture)
- Green Skills
Degree choices that match the Local Skills agenda our BHASVIC students went onto study for Physics include:
- Geophysics
- Mathematics with Applied Mathematics/Mathematical Physics
- Physics and Philosophy
- Physics with Particle Physics and Cosmology
- Physics with Quantum Technologies with Foundation Year
Careers that match the Local Skills agenda our BHASVIC students went onto study for Physics include:
- Material Science (a real growth area)
- Meteorologist
- Nuclear engineer
- Field Seismologist
- Research scientist (physical sciences)
How BHASVIC helps: Skills Week in A1 helps students build skills in the workplace and a focus on developing skills through tutorial in A1 and A2 supports students in writing outstanding Personal Statements and CVs. We know our students have already gained a wide variety of skills at home and with extra-curricular activities and will increasingly take up jobs. Our focus is on supporting them to evidence skills already gained, identify gaps and ensure that they transfer that to CVs and applications. This is in partnership with every curriculum area.
Last year, 78 BHASVIC students went onto study Engineering related degrees at 32 different universities.
Engineering degrees come in a wide variety of choice and cross all science subjects. Interesting choices for students last year were Flood and Coastal Engineering and Renewable Energy Engineering. In addition, we had students go onto study Architecture and related construction degrees.
Popular universities included Bristol, Loughborough, Swansea and Bath. In addition, students went onto study Engineering at Imperial in London and Cambridge.
Should I study Engineering at degree level?
There are a wide range of engineering options that students can choose between. Options include foundation and placement years, and industrial experience. You will have about 20 hours of teaching each week, mainly lectures, but also tutorials and laboratory experiments. Contact time is higher studying science degrees due to lab work. Modules might include Thermofluids, Engineering concepts, Materials and manufacture, Dynamics and control, Systems modelling.
Types of Engineering degree
There are a huge range of interesting engineering options including:
- Mechanical
- Electrical
- Software
- Civil
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Architectural
- Robotics
- Biochemical
and many more.
Entry Requirements
A-levels (or equivalent) usually required a mix of Sciences, Computing and Maths. It is wort exploring degree entry requirements of thinking of taking a particular route.
Top Universities for Engineering
Bristol, Cambridge, Oxford, Imperial, Durham
Cardiff, Bristol UWE, Liverpool John Moores – all very high student satisfaction scores
London South Bank, Bournemouth, Exeter- all with top graduate prospects
Many of our students choose a combined degree - applications from our students have included:
- Architectural Engineering (Year in Industry)
- Aerospace Engineering
- Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering with a Year in Industry
- Product Design Engineering with Foundation Year
Example entry requirements (please check):
A-Level/BTEC equivalents:
Exeter/AAB
UEA/BBB
York/BBC
Why not try a foundation degree or higher apprenticeship?
For example: Engineering Degree Apprentice Siemens
Some examples of Engineering-related degrees that our BHASVIC students have gone onto study in the past few years are:
- Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Aerospace Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Aeronautics and Astronautics / Spacecraft Engineering
- Architectural Engineering
- Architecture and Environmental Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
- Architectural Engineering
- Architectural Engineering (Year in Industry)
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemical and Nuclear Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Civil Engineering (Year in Industry)
- Design Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Innovation
- Electronic and Information Engineering
- Electronic Engineering with Artificial Intelligence
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Robotics
- Electronic and Computer Engineering
- Engineering Mathematics
- Engineering Geology and Geotechnics
- Flood and Coastal Engineering
- General Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering with a Year in Industry
- Mechanical Engineering with Robotics
- Mechanical Engineering/Mechatronics
- Mechanical Engineering / Naval Engineering with Industrial Placement Year
- Mechatronic and Robotic Engineering with a Year in Industry
- Robotics Engineering
- Renewable Energy Engineering
How BHASVIC helps: We have a wide range of information and resources to support students applying for university including subject area guides, personal statement and UCAS resources, super-curricular activity guides, open day and bursary information. We also cover university research, careers, art foundation and all other destinations in depth in tutorial and students can choose an appropriate pathway for them in the second year from UCAS, Employability & Enterprise, Visual Arts, Oxbridge and Medics. Our Spring Futures Fair brings in a huge number of university visitors with workshops and information stands and departments will bring speakers in wherever possible.
Engineers use their analytical skills and aptitude working with ground-breaking technologies to enhance people's lives.
- Building services engineer
- Energy Engineer
- Network Engineer
- Environmental consultant
- Sustainability consultant
- Broadcast engineer
- Electrical engineer
- Electronics engineer
- Project manager
- Product/process development scientist
Career Prospects
Engineers are in demand across multiple industries, particularly in the oil industry, and in the car industry, in design and manufacturing. Jobs are all around the country, with Scotland and the Southeast the most likely places for a new mechanical engineer to find work.
An engineering degree will help you gain specific technical training, knowledge of issues and the ability to plan, prioritise and solve problems under pressure and to deadlines. These skills are in demand from employers in the oil and gas industry, aerospace, car industry, electricity generators and suppliers, technical consultancy, defence and the Armed Forces.
Local Market Information
Network Rail
Network Rail are taking applications for their apprenticeship scheme production. 50% are based in London and the Southeast, many of which work on a freelance basis.
Examples of apprenticeships and opportunities include:
- Field Engineer UK Govt
- Unified Communications Technician Apprentice
- UK Government Degree Apprenticeship in Electronic Engineering
How BHASVIC helps: We have an excellent Careers Hub and careers advisors who are available for appointments through student services. Local jobs are advertised and they will advise on skills and specialist areas such as degree apprenticeships. Students can choose an appropriate pathway for them in the second year from UCAS, Employability & Enterprise, Visual Arts, Oxbridge and Medics. Our Spring Futures Fair brings in a huge number of careers & apprenticeship visitors with workshops and information stands and departments will bring speakers in around the subject area.
You will gain many transferable skills if you go onto study Engineering that will be valued in the workplace including:
Teamwork, IT & Technology, Problem solving, Social Skills, Organisation, Numeracy, Communication, Attention to detail, Creative thinking, Analytics, Project Management
Local Skills
The Local Skills agenda considers job prospects and employment in our local area of Sussex. Many of our students will contribute to the National Skills agenda and go onto find a career in a wide range of sectors. For students in Sussex our local skills are identified as the following sectors:
- Construction
- Creative & Cultural
- Digital (includes IT and Technology)
- Engineering & Manufacturing
- Healthcare (includes Bio Life Sciences and Pharmaceutical)
- Visitor & Hospitality
- Land-based (includes Agriculture and Viticulture)
- Green Skills
Degree choices that match the Local Skills agenda for Engineering include:
- Aeronautics and Astronautics / Spacecraft Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Flood and Coastal Engineering
- Renewable Energy Engineering
Career choices that match the Local Skills agenda for Engineering include:
- Design Engineer
- Maintenance Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Quality Engineer
- Civil Engineer
How BHASVIC helps: Skills Week in A1 helps students build skills in the workplace and a focus on developing skills through tutorial in A1 and A2 supports students in writing outstanding Personal Statements and CVs. We know our students have already gained a wide variety of skills at home and with extra-curricular activities and will increasingly take up jobs. Our focus is on supporting them to evidence skills already gained, identify gaps and ensure that they transfer that to CVs and applications. This is in partnership with every curriculum area.