Physics  (A Level)  

•  Assessment
• Year 1 & 2
  100% Exam
• Exam board
  OCR
• Specific entry requirements
  Two grade 5s in GCSE Science

*This course cannot be studied as part of a blended programme.
 

What Will You Learn?

If you want to learn how the universe works, then this is the subject for you. Physics is the study of the fundamental laws that govern the Universe; from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest galaxies and everything in between and because Physics is a mathematical subject so you should enjoy calculation, problem solving and have the ability to think logically. You will develop your practical skills as you complete a wide variety of experiments, illustrating and exploring topics such as the study of mechanics, heat, waves, electricity and magnetism which underpin today’s technology and the way we live. We can also travel forwards in time to consider how the study of nuclear and particle physics will underpin the way we will live in the future. If you are interested in a career in engineering Physics and Mathematics are essential subjects for higher study.

Modules

Year 1

Module 1: Development of Practical Skills

Physics is a practical subject and this module gives you the opportunity to develop experimental methods and techniques for analysing data.

Module 2: Foundations of Physics

You will learn about the basic ideas that underpin all aspects of the subject. Quantities and units, scalars and vectors are the ideas that run through the very fabric of Physics.

Module 3: Forces and Motion

You will learn how to model the motion of objects using mathematics and understand the effects that forces have on objects. You will explore the link between forces and energy. Newton understood all of this three hundred years ago!

Module 4: Electrons, Waves and Photons

You will learn about electricity and how to build and test electrical circuits.

You will look at the similarities and differences between sound, water and electromagnetic waves. How has quantum physics changed our notion of reality?

Year 2

Module 5: Newtonian World and Astrophysics

Topics in this module include astrophysics, thermal energy, circular motion and gravitational fields.

How can we use physics to understand the origin and ultimate fate of the universe?

Module 6: Particles and Medical Physics

You will learn about electric and magnetic fields and how they are used in everyday life: from loudspeakers to mass spectrometers!

You will study nuclear physics and radioactivity. Both have profoundly changed the world we live in!

You will explore the standard model of particle physics and how we can probe the very structure of matter using particle accelerators.  You will also learn how we use physics to diagnose and treat diseases: imaging techniques include X-rays, ultrasound and PET scans.

Special Features

• You will study Physics in a suite of state-of-the-art laboratories full of high technology equipment.
• You will encounter external speakers on a range of topics: Astrophysics, Acoustic Engineering etc. 
• You take part in a Particle Physics Masterclass at Manchester University.

Where Will This Lead?

Physics is essential for many Science and Engineering degree courses and particularly useful for careers in astrophysics, architecture and engineering. The skills you will develop are valued by employers, including the ability to construct logical arguments, pay attention to detail and approach problem solving logically.