About this course
On this MPhys degree you’ll explore photonics – the science of light – while deepening your knowledge in the core areas of physics. An unrivalled range of specialist modules will allow you to fine-tune skills that are in high demand in this well-paid, rapidly expanding industry. According to government agency Innovate UK, the nation’s photonics sector is now worth over £12 billion a year.
We’re home to the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) - the largest photonics research institute in the UK.
We’re also the only UK university to offer an undergraduate physics degree with photonics and you’ll join a research community with a history of revolutionary discoveries. These include the optical fibres and amplifiers that make the internet possible.
Our direct link with the ORC, a global hub for photonics research, gives you a unique opportunity to explore all the possibilities in depth.
As part of your course you’ll also:
-
learn key skills in computer modeling, mathematics and statistical analysis
-
use the latest equipment in our physics and photonics labs
-
develop problem-solving skills to test theories and conduct experiments
Additionally, you’ll spend time in one of our research groups in year 4. Past projects have included holography, photosensitive materials, nanoscale x-rays, optical fibre and silicon photonics.
High-performing students are eligible to apply to one of our flagship programmes.
The course is accredited by the Institute of Physics and there's an academic scholarship scheme worth up to £20,000, plus an unconditional offer based on a competitive exam taken at applicant visit days.
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
In light of COVID-19, we’ve made changes to some elements of course delivery for 2020-21. For details as to how this has changed delivery for this course, please view the Addendum to the Programme Specification PDF.
Entry requirements
A-levels
AAA-AAB including grades AA in mathematics/further mathematics and physics, with a pass in the physics Practical
or
AABC including grades AA in mathematics/further mathematics and physics, with a pass in the physics Practical
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Applicants may be invited to visit the department and have an optional interview; an optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer:
AAB including mathematics/further mathematics (minimum grade A) and physics (minimum grade A), with a pass in the physics Practical, plus grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 36-34 points overall, with 18-17 points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation) and 6 at Higher Level in physics
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Applicants may be invited to visit the department and have an optional interview; an optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades AA in A-level mathematics/further mathematics and physics, with a pass in the physics Practical
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma
Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Other requirements
UK students
International students
Other ways to qualify
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
A-levels
AAA-AAB* including grades AA in mathematics/further mathematics and physics, with a pass in the physics Practical
or
AABC including grades AA in mathematics/further mathematics and physics, with a pass in the physics Practical
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. ‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. *Applicants may be invited to visit the department and have an optional interview; an optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A-level offer:
AAB including mathematics/further mathematics (minimum grade A) and physics (minimum grade A), with a pass in the physics Practical and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
AAB including grades AA in mathematics and physics, with a pass in the physics Practical
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 36-34* points overall, with 18-17* points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in mathematics/further mathematics and 6 at Higher Level in physics
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Applications where Higher Level subjects have been studied without the full Diploma, will also be considered on a case by case basis. *Applicants may be invited to visit the department and have an optional interview; an optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades AA in A-level mathematics/further mathematics and physics, with a pass in the physics Practical
We do not accept the BTEC Extended Diploma
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma
Applicants with a BTEC Extended Diploma or the BTEC Diploma should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics/Geophysics Foundation Year
BTEC additional information
‘Use of mathematics’ A level is not a substitute for ‘mathematics’ A level. Applicants may be invited to visit the department and have an optional interview; an optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- Scottish Qualification offers
- Cambridge Pre-U
- Welsh Baccalaureate
- European Baccalaureate
Other requirements
UK students
International students
Other ways to qualify
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
COVID-19: we've made some changes to the structure of the course for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
You don't need to choose your modules when you apply. Your academic tutor will help you to customise your course.
You’ll study core physics subjects with an increasing number of optional modules for the first 3 years of the course. You’ll then choose from a range of advanced optoelectronics, laser and photonics modules in year 4.
Right from the start, you’ll do mini-projects in the lab and apply your analytical and problem-solving skills. We have our own dedicated undergraduate photonics laboratories, where you will be able to make your own laser and explore the properties of light.
Year 1 overview
This consists of core modules to give you a grounding in the key principles of physics and experimentation.
These include topics on:
-
physics skills
-
mathematics
-
waves and light
-
energy and matter
-
motion and relativity
-
electricity and magnetism
There will also be an introduction to photonics.
Year 2 overview
Core modules cover topics including:
-
electromagnetism
-
quantum physics
-
classical mechanics
-
practical photonics
You can also choose an optional module on mathematical methods.
Year 3 overview
Core modules in year 3 cover everything from particle physics to theories of matter, space and time and atomic physics.
There is also an individual dissertation on a topic of your choice.
A practical photonics module includes a series of experiments to demonstrate the principles of laser science.
You’ll also do an individual dissertation on laser physics.
Year 4 overview
In the fourth year you’ll spend time in one of our research groups, where you’ll work with another student on an extended research project to develop in-depth experimental skills.
You’ll also choose from a range of optional photonics modules on topics like:
-
advanced lasers
-
optical fibres and sensors
-
silicon photonics
Optional physics modules cover subjects such as:
-
nanoscience
-
relativity
-
astrophysics
-
quantum physics
-
particle physics
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
COVID-19: we've made some changes to our modules for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
For entry in Academic Year 2020-21
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Learning and assessment
COVID-19: we've made some changes to our learning and assessment methods for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Alberto Politi is the course leader.
Careers
The UK has a thriving photonics sector and there is a shortage of trained photonics experts.
This means you’ll be sought after for industry research and development roles, where your knowledge of lasers, optical components and nanofabrication techniques will be in great demand.
You’ll also be well equipped for further research at PhD level. Many of our Physics with Photonics students continue their studies within Southampton’s prestigious Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) before going on to successful industry careers.
A physics degree also opens up a huge range of other career options.
Roles include:
-
astrophysicist
-
air traffic controller
-
bioinformatics specialist
-
data analyst
-
government science policy officer
-
medical physicist
-
satellite engineer
-
systems analyst
If you decide on a career outside physics, you’ll be able to demonstrate transferable skills such as computation and coding, statistical analysis, communication and project management skills.
We work hard to help you get the career of your choice and make the process easier and more enjoyable.
During year 2 you’ll have access to a programme of physics-focused career sessions, timetabled to fit in with your studies. These include application and interview workshops and talks from visiting professionals.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
We can help you find a paid summer placement to give you valuable hands-on experience and the chance to make industry contacts.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £22,760.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: F369
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
If you’re successful, we’ll invite you to an optional applicant visit day. This will give the opportunity to learn more about the department and take an interview, which may lead to a lower offer. If you attend a visit day before Christmas, you can take the physics academic scholarship exam.
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
