The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a modern and vibrant institution located in Scotland. It was formed in 2007 through the merger of the University of Paisley and Bell College. With a history dating back to 1897, UWS has a rich heritage of providing education and training to students from across Scotland and around the world. Today, UWS is one of Scotland's largest universities, with four main campuses located in Paisley, Hamilton, Ayr, and Dumfries. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as business, engineering, health, education, and the arts, and is known for its innovative and student-centered approach to learning.

The BSc Physics is designed to develop your knowledge and understanding of physics to an advanced level. You will study core topics in physics, along with option subjects, including:

Classical mechanics
Special relativity
Oscillations and waves
Quantum mechanics
Atomic, nuclear and particle physics
Electromagnetism
Thermodynamics and static physics
As part of your degree,you will develop the laboratory skills and problem-solving experience which will enhance your familiarity with the principles and techniques of experimental physics, as well as general scientific research. This will help you to prepare you for a successful career in industry or research.

Guest speakers from industry also form part of the course to further deepen your understanding of the subject and to explore potential career options.

UWS’s Physics BSc is taught on our Paisley Campus, which has modern classrooms, state-of-the-art teaching facilities and well-equipped laboratories that will help you learn the relevant theoretical principles and practical skills.

In Years 3 and 4 of study, some of your practical work may be carried out within our research laboratories.

Year 1
Five core modules include physics and mathematics. One optional module can be chosen from a range of science, engineering or computing-related modules. The physics modules are taught at the same level as the Scottish Advanced Higher syllabus.

Aspects of atomic physics and thermodynamics are also taught.

Year 2
You will branch out to other areas including classical mechanics, special relativity, optics, electronics, oscillations and waves, properties of matter, and mathematical methods for physicists. Practical and professional skills are also developed.

Year 3
Core modules include electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, atomic and nuclear physics, thermodynamics and statistical physics. Two optional modules can be chosen from complex analysis, advanced optics, imaging and nuclear medicine.

(Optional) 12-month Industrial Placement
This is an optional year spent in industry or a relevant scientific research laboratory.

Year 4
Subjects are more advanced developments of those undertaken in Year 3, with additional topics including nuclear and particle physics, solid state physics, surface analysis and detectors, partial differential equations, and applications of nuclear physics.

You will undertake a research dissertation where your knowledge can be applied to an extended project.

Teaching and Assessment
You will be taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials and workshops.

You will also have the opportunity to take part in group work and independent learning to develop your transferable skills such as research, presentation, communication and working as part of a team.

This degree is assessed using a variety of assessment methods including:

Written examinations
Coursework
Practical assessment
Learn a language (Optional)
This course also gives you the option of taking a language module, which can count towards your degree. These modules cover multiple languages and range from absolute beginner to near-native speaker level.

Course Structure
Find out more about the structure, learning outcomes, compulsory and optional modules in this course.

BSc (Hons) Physics Course Structure

• The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is a vibrant and dynamic institution located in Scotland. Founded in 2007, UWS was formed through the merger of the University of Paisley and Bell College. With a history dating back to 1897, the university has a rich heritage of providing education and training to students from across Scotland and around the world.
• UWS is one of Scotland's largest universities, with four main campuses located in Paisley, Hamilton, Ayr, and Dumfries. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in areas such as business, engineering, health, education, and the arts. UWS is also known for its innovative and student-centered approach to learning, which includes a focus on practical, real-world experiences and hands-on learning opportunities.
• UWS is officially ranked by Times Higher Education in the top 150 of universities worldwide under 50 years old (2022 Young University Rankings). In the recent Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, 90 percent of research at University of the West of Scotland was classed as world-leading, internationally excellent, or recognised internationally. UWS was also crowned Higher Educational Institution of the Year 2022 (The Herald Higher Education Awards).
• One of the standout features of UWS is its commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today's rapidly changing job market. The university offers a wide range of programs that are designed to meet the needs of students from all backgrounds, and its experienced faculty is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential.
• In addition to its strong academic programs, UWS also offers a wealth of extracurricular activities and student services. The university has a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs and organizations, as well as sports teams, volunteer opportunities, and cultural events. There is also a well-established student support network that provides guidance and assistance to students on a wide range of topics, from academic support to personal and financial advice.
• Another key aspect of UWS is its strong commitment to research. The university has a growing reputation as a center of research excellence, and its faculty and students are working on a wide range of cutting-edge projects in areas such as engineering, health, education, and the arts. This research is not only helping to advance knowledge in these fields, but it is also helping to create new opportunities for students and improve the lives of people around the world.
• In conclusion, the University of the West of Scotland is a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that is dedicated to providing its students with the education, skills, and experiences they need to succeed in today's rapidly changing world. With its strong academic programs, vibrant student life, and commitment to research, UWS is the perfect place for students who want to get the most out of their college experience.

You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

• Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
• Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it