Available in Clearing
Delve into the make-up of the universe. Explore physics on a grand scale. And understand the forces that light stars and form galaxies.
Here, you’ll help chip away at the boundaries of knowledge, conducting real research and tackling as yet unanswered questions.
You’ll gain a thorough understanding of fundamental physics and maths concepts. And develop investigative skills to apply these concepts in new areas of science, technology and enterprise.
Highly valued by employers, a physics degree leads to varied and rewarding careers from research and development to accountancy and management.
This course is accredited by
About this course
Study with experts exploring topics from planets in our solar system to distant galaxies and abstract phenomena. And gain the theoretical and practical tools to reveal and understand the underlying laws that govern the universe – from the smallest sub-atomic particle to the grand scale of cosmology.
You’ll develop the transferable data science skills that employers value – including in Python, one of the fastest-growing programming languages. And pick up sought-after skills in everything from communication and team work to problem solving, alongside programming, maths and research experience.
Nurtured by world-leading academics, you’ll have weekly tutorials in your first two years, plus one-to-one feedback sessions with your tutor throughout your degree.
We run a packed calendar of over 100 events every year, spanning widening participation, diversity and curriculum-enhancing activities. We’re part of a unique employability network, the White Rose Industrial Physics Alliance, which runs careers events featuring potential future employers. And our award-winning Changing Face of Physics Campaign means that Physics at Hull has one of the most diverse student populations in the country.
Explore the world and beyond in Hull
Module options
Each year, you’ll study modules worth a certain number of credits, and you need 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits – so you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more. In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120. Some modules are compulsory, some are optional, so you can build a course that’s right for you.
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Foundation Mathematics A
You will study pure mathematics topics, including proof, algebra, trigonometry, differentiation, integration, exponentials, logarithms, sequences and series. The applied topic is probability and statistics.
compulsory
20 credits
Foundation Mathematics B
This module extends the knowledge gained in the Foundation Mathematics A - pure mathematics topics. You will also study functions and vectors. The applied topic is mechanics.
compulsory
20 credits
Introduction to Physics 1
This is the first of two foundation year modules that prepare you for studying physics or mathematics at degree level. You will study the basics of mechanics, properties of matter, electricity and magnetism.
compulsory
20 credits
Introduction to Physics 2
This is the second of two foundation year modules that prepare you for studying physics or mathematics at degree level. You will study the basics of oscillations, waves, and quantum and nuclear physics.
compulsory
20 credits
Preparing for Learning in Higher Education
This module is designed to give you the best possible start to your university studies, making sure you have all the essential skills you need to succeed. Through lectures and workshops we will teach you how to write in an academic style, how to find quality sources, and how to reference work, culminating in writing up a mini-research project.
compulsory
20 credits
Group Challenge
In a group, you'll formulate questions that can be tested by scientific investigations and take part in weekly workshops with academics.
compulsory
20 credits
Discovery Skills
Learn the discovery skills to join the next generation of 21st Century physicists. Skills include experimental design, problem solving, data analysis, research skills, teamwork and professional conduct.
core
20 credits
Mathematics for Physicists
Develop your maths abilities to solve physics problems and formulate the outcome of your experiments in the lab.
core
20 credits
Classical and Quantum Physics
Explore Newton's Laws and extend them to simple fluid dynamics, then study the experimental and theoretical foundations of Quantum Mechanics.
compulsory
20 credits
Our facilities
Watchlist
Dr Elke Roediger
Course overview
2 mins
Life on campus
University life
2 mins
Teaching Facilities
University life
2 mins
The Gold Standard for Teaching
University life
1 min
Our academics
From the Big Bang to black holes, quantum mechanics to the theory of everything. Our research is at the frontier of physics.
You’ll study under world-leading academics whose research is helping make sense of the world around us – and pursuing explanations for the wonders of the universe.
Dr Elke Roediger
Reader in Astrophysics, Director of the E.A. Milne Centre for Astrophysics
Elke’s research includes investigating clusters of galaxies, galaxy evolution and hydrodynamics. She has a range of international research experience and previous roles include Visiting Scientist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.
Dr David Benoit
Senior Lecturer in Molecular Physics and Astrochemistry
David has carried out international research in the field of computational chemistry including at the University of Ulm and MPI-FKF in Germany. He also lectured at Queen Mary, University of London and University College London before joining Hull.
Entry Requirements
Fees & Funding
How much is it?
Future prospects
A degree in Physics and Astrophysics opens the doors to a whole range of future prospects in fields like data science, laser systems engineering, telecommunications, IT and computing, medical physics and nuclear engineering.
Our graduates have secured roles at companies including Rolls-Royce, Thales, QinetiQ, NPL, Reckitt and Clyde Bergemann. Others have gone onto graduate training schemes with the National Grid and the NHS.
This degree meets the educational requirements towards a sought-after qualification as a Chartered Physicist, which opens even more doors to future employment and research opportunities – such as staying on an extra year to gain a Masters.
Become part of the next generation of futuremakers
Like what you've seen? Then it's time to apply.
The standard way is to apply through UCAS. This will give you the chance to showcase your skills qualities and passion for the subject, as well as providing us with your academic qualifications.
Not ready to apply yet?
Visit our next Open Day, and see all that Hull has to offer for yourself. Talk to our lecturers about your subject, find out what university is really like from our current students, and take a tour of our beautiful campus and amazing facilities.
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Physics at Hull is ranked 1st in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction. Guardian University Rankings 2025
Physics is ranked 3rd out of 48 institutions for Student Satisfaction. Complete University Guide 2025
Physics is ranked 2nd in the UK for learning resources and opportunities. National Students Survey 2024
All modules on this course page are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.