Studying at Oxford University Physics allows students to discover the complexities of the world and how it came to be. Oxford has one of the largest physics departments in the UK, with a diverse teaching programme and a strong emphasis on fundamental concepts with practical applications. Students will receive teaching from discipline-leading experts at Oxford Physics through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practicals.
| UCAS Code | F303 |
|---|---|
| Minimum Entrance Requirements | A-levels – A*AA including Mathematics and Physics. The A* must be in Mathematics, Physics or Further Mathematics Advanced Highers – AA/AAB IB – 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL. The 7 should be in Physics or Mathematics |
| Admission Test for Physics at Oxford | PAT+ Interview The Physics Aptitude Test is a two hour exam covering familiar Physics and Mathematics material from the GCSE and A-Level syllabuses. It takes common concepts students have studied before and applies them to unfamiliar situations. It features both multiple choice and long form questions and will take place on Wednesday 2nd November 2022. |
| Subject Requirements for Physics at Oxford | Candidates must have Mathematics and Physics. A Mathematics Mechanics module is highly recommended and Oxford also recommend doing Further Mathematics if available, although this isn’t required. |
| Extras things admission tutors look for | At interview, tutors look for students who: Can effectively express physical ideas using Mathematics Can theorise how a physical system works even if they do not have experience with that system Can take familiar concepts and apply them to unfamiliar situations Can display a passion and enthusiasm for studying Physics at Oxford |
| Duration | 3 years- students will graduate with a BA 4 years- students will graduate with a MPhys |
| Admissions Statistics | Interviewed: 32% Successful: 13% Intake: 182 |
| What is Physics at Oxford? | Physics concerns itself with the nature of matter and energy. Oxford University Physics students will learn the theory behind a variety of different fundamentals in Physics, allowing for a deep appreciation of the relationship between Physics, Mathematics and the world. This can then be put into practice in laboratory sessions. In doing so, students can greatly develop their critical thinking and problem solving skills, while also enhancing their hands on abilities. |
| Oxford Colleges that offer Physics | Balliol College, Brasenose College, Christ Church, Corpus Christi College, Exeter College, Hertford College, Jesus College, Keble College, LMH College, , Lincoln College, Magdalen College, Mansfield College, Pembroke College, The Queen’s College, St Anne’s College, St Catz College, St Edmund Hall College, St Hilda’s College, St Hugh’s College, St John’s College, St Peter’s College, Somerville College, Trinity College, University (Univ) College, Wadham College, Worcester College |
| Structure of Physics at Oxford | Year 1 – Students study a range of courses in: Classical mechanics, Electromagnetism and circuit theory, Mathematical Methods, Differential equations and waves. Assessment comes in the form of four written papers, a short option paper and a satisfactory laboratory work record. Year 2 – Students study a range of courses including Thermal Physics and Quantum physics, as well as building on the previous year’s topics. Assessment is in the form of three written papers and an individual presentation. Year 3 – Students study topics such as Fluids, General relativity and Nuclear physics. Assessment varies depending on whether students will advance to the Masters course, either taking five written papers if this is the case or four if not. Students must also complete a mini project and write a project report. Year 4 – Students will complete a research project in a chosen field, such as Astrophysics, Particle physics or Theoretical physics. Assessment is in the form of a project report and two written papers. A typical week consists of ten lectures and two tutorials, as well as one session in the practical laboratories. |
| Common Careers for Oxford Physics Students | Examples of common careers for Oxford Physics students include: Research and development Technical Consultancy Science Education Finance and business |
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