The BSc in Physics is a four-year course run by the School of Physics and Astronomy. During the degree, students will be introduced to core topics in mainstream physics – such as mechanics, special relativity, waves, quantum physics, light, electricity and magnetism – as well as develop the necessary mathematical, computational, and laboratory skills needed as a physicist. Later in the course, these underpinning skills and knowledge bases may be used to explain and explore a range of contemporary topics.

In the first two years of their studies they will also study modules from the School of Mathematics and Statistics, as mathematics is the language of physics. Depending on how many mathematics modules they choose to do, they may be able to choose modules in other subjects such as astronomy, chemistry, computer science, philosophy, or many other subjects from across the University. The flexible nature of the degree programmes at St Andrews means that by appropriate choice of modules in first and second year, they may be able to change their final degree topic during the course.

Students have some choice of modules in first and second year. At the start of third year, their choice of degree title (in the School of Physics and Astronomy) largely determines what set of modules they take in third year. There is significant choice of modules in fourth year.

Final year students carry out a major project, which takes one-quarter of their time for the year. This is often carried out in close cooperation with one of the School’s research groups. 

The University of St Andrews operates on a flexible modular degree system by which degrees are obtained through the accumulation of credits.