Physics

Oxford has one of the largest university physics departments in the UK and indeed worldwide, with an outstanding and very diverse research programme. Research is organised in six sub-departments: Astrophysics; Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary Physics; Atomic and Laser Physics; Condensed Matter Physics (including Biophysics); Particle Physics; and Theoretical Physics. Researchers are also college physics tutors; thus physics students will come into personal contact with physicists working at the forefront of their subject. The concentration of expertise also ensures that the fourth year MPhys option courses bring you to the threshold of current research. Option work may be possible in other departments. The Physics Department is well-equipped with teaching laboratories, which are regularly updated. Excellent library provision is available in the Radcliffe Science Library and in all colleges.

Physics is part of the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division, which also contains Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth Sciences (Geology), Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Materials and Biological Sciences, some of which are taught in joint courses. At the end of the first year, it may be possible to change to another degree course, subject to satisfactory first year examination results, availability of space on the course and the consent of the college. In the later years of the honour schools in Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences there are opportunities to take options in other subjects.

More than 40% of Physics graduates go on to study for a higher degree, leading to eventual careers in research in universities or in industry. Typical destinations include research and development, technical consultancy, manufacturing and science education. Many others enter professions unrelated to their subject, such as finance and business, in which the analytical and problem-solving skills they have developed are highly sought after.

Recent Physics graduates include a trainee clinical scientist and a post-doctoral research associate. Nigel graduated in 1987 and went on to do a PhD in microelectronics. He says: ‘I have been working as an electronic engineer ever since, designing integrated circuits for a number of employers until 2006, when I became self-employed. My physics degree was a good preparation for a career in electronics, providing all the mathematical and scientific background required, but also giving the opportunity to study interesting theoretical subjects such as quantum mechanics and relativity.’

Students interested in this course might also like to consider Chemistry, Earth Sciences (Geology), Engineering Science, Materials Science, or Physics and Philosophy.