Our Physics MPhys programme offers a broad and rigorous education in physics, underpinned by strong computational and mathematical training. These skills are in high demand across cutting-edge industries, from quantum technologies and photonics to renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.

You’ll explore how physics operates beyond the classroom. Through hands-on experiments, computational modelling, and exposure to current research, you’ll gain insight into how physicists solve real-world problems and contribute to emerging sectors.

Whether you're fascinated by the quantum world, the behaviour of light, or the structure of the universe, you’ll develop the ability to measure, model, and predict physical phenomena. Along the way, you’ll build a versatile skillset — including analytical thinking, data analysis, programming, teamwork, and communication — that prepares you for a wide range of careers.

Topics include fields and forces, photonics and optics, and thermal physics. You’ll delve into quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, solid-state physics, and laser technologies, engaging with the same ideas and tools used in frontier research and industrial innovation.

In Years 4 and 5 of the MPhys programme, you’ll undertake substantial individual research projects that allow you to apply your knowledge to advanced topics in experimental, theoretical, or computational physics. These projects are a defining feature of the degree, offering you the chance to explore complex scientific questions and contribute meaningfully to ongoing research.

Compared to the BSc Physics programme, the MPhys provides a deeper and more comprehensive engagement with the subject. You’ll delve into specialist areas and develop a critical awareness of current challenges and innovations in physics. The extended research project in your final year is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a significant piece of original work. Under the guidance of academic staff, you’ll investigate a sophisticated problem using advanced techniques and research methodologies.

This experience not only sharpens your subject expertise but also builds the high-level analytical, technical, and communication skills essential for postgraduate study or a career in research and development. It’s your opportunity to demonstrate independence, creativity, and scientific rigour — and to take your place at the forefront of scientific discovery.

For students who meet additional entry requirements, a 4-year MPhys Physics degree option is also available — offering a faster route into employment or further study.

Heriot-Watt has been ranked second in Scotland for Physics based on student experience by the Guardian (2024). You’ll benefit from a supportive and personal learning environment, where you can engage directly with academic staff, explore developments in the wider physics community, and receive tailored support throughout your studies.

Your student experience

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Our expertise

Our expertiseYour learning environmentCustomise your learningFoundationAccreditation

Heriot-Watt University is top in Scotland for Physics research, with 97% of its research classed as world-leading (4*) in the REF 2021 results. The university also received the Queens Anniversary Prize in 2021, the highest honour for universities in the UK, in recognition of our research in Photonics.

Your learning will be informed by the expertise of our research-active physicists, scientists, and academics. You will be taught by passionate and engaging experts who will provide you with insight into emerging topics in quantum technologies, photonics and condensed matter physics, by relating taught material to their own research.

Our degrees are directly informed by the world class research carried out by Heriot-Watt’s Research Institute for Photonic and Quantum Sciences and the Research Institute for Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering. These research Institutes focus on promoting excellence across research themes which include:

Quantum Photonics and Quantum Information

Healthcare research

Ultrafast Photonics

Biophysics

Applied Photonics

The research relevance of this undergraduate programme ensures your studies remain cutting-edge and industry focused.

Go Global

Go Global is our student mobility programme, allowing you to seamlessly transfer your studies to one of our global campuses, or to a partner university. Live and learn in a new country, experience different cultures and build a global perspective, while continuing your degree without interruption.

European Exchange

This Exchange Programme enables you to study or work in Europe as part of your degree programme, usually for a full academic year.

Course content

September Intake - Edinburgh

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Mandatory September

Mechanics, Fields and Forces

Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists 1

Optional September

Introductory Biology 1

Principles of Chemistry

Logic and Proof

Elements of Probability

Mandatory January

Waves and Matter

Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists 2

Optional January

Introductory Biology 2

Chemical Reactivity

Introduction to Mechanical Engineering

Discrete Mathematics

Topics in Statistical Practice

Mandatory All Year

Introductory Physics Labs

Disclaimer

The courses mentioned above may change between now and the time that you study. For more information, please view our Terms and Conditions.

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Student testimonials

Berke's story

Physics BSc (Hons)Heriot-Watt gave me the opportunity to learn how to learn and figure out how I can best develop myself. I was encouraged to take initiative whenever possible and that has served me more times than I can count throughout my career. See more

The well-structured courses, close contact with lecturers, and the support of ambitious peers created an environment where I could thrive. Heriot-Watt nurtured my curiosity for science and research, helping me grow both academically and personally.Sven Stengel

BSc (Hons) Physics graduateSee more

Fees and funding

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September 2027 intake tuition fees

Scotland

Paid by SAAS

England / Wales / N Ireland / Rep of Ireland

International

Status: Your residency status is usually defined as the country where you have been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of your course.

International: 'International' includes applicants from European Union countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled status in UK. (This does not include students from the Republic of Ireland - see above).

Scholarships and bursaries

Bursaries for students from England, Northern Ireland or Wales

In addition to government loans and grants towards the costs of fees and living costs, we are offering generous financial support to attract and support eligible undergraduate students from England, Northern Ireland or Wales:

Heriot-Watt University Bursary (up to £3,100 per year)View details

Entry requirements

If joining us in September 2027, please see the entry requirements below. Heriot-Watt offers different entry requirements, depending on your background.

Standard entry requirements

Highers AAAB (over two sittings). Must include Physics and Maths, with one at A.

A-Levels BBB. Must include Physics and Maths, with both achieved at B.

International Baccalaureate 30 points. Must include Physics and Maths, both at Higher Level 5.

BTEC Extended Diploma DDM. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths.

HNC A in graded unit. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths.

HND BB in graded unit. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths.

Please check that you meet our University-wide National 5/GCSE (or equivalent) English and Maths requirements.

Minimum entry requirements *

Highers BBBC (over two sittings). Must include Physics and Maths, both at B.

A-Levels BCC. Must include Physics and Maths with one at B.

International Baccalaureate 28 points. Must include Physics and Maths, both at Higher Level 5.

BTEC Extended Diploma DMM. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths.

HNC B in graded unit. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths.

* Minimum: under our Fair Access Policy, we will relax our standard entry requirements for some Scottish and Rest of UK status students depending on their circumstances. Our minimum requirements will apply if you:

live in an area within the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation lowest 20% (SIMD20) or POLAR4 Quintile 1 regions (RUK)

or are care experienced.

We can also make exceptions for some Scottish students with grades above minimum but below standard. Read more about our Minimum and standard entry requirements.

Additional information

For all years, applications are welcomed from holders of non-school qualifications, mature candidates and overseas students.

If you do not see your qualifications here please contact us at studywithus@hw.ac.uk

For applicants studying HNC, HND or BTEC qualifications, when submitting your application please ensure you list in full all the units you are currently studying, as specific units (e.g. in Maths) may be required.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, we'll need to see evidence of your English language ability.

The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

Please see our detailed English language requirements.

Why Heriot-Watt

We have been producing career-ready graduates since 1821. With our roots as the world’s first Mechanics Institute, Heriot-Watt is a pioneering university with a global reach.

At Heriot-Watt, learning goes beyond the lecture theatre. We tackle real world challenges through extraordinary research – from climate change to protecting our oceans, to advancing life-saving medical breakthroughs and shaping the next generation of AI. We are also committed to developing forward-thinking design and sustainable business practices that impact industries worldwide. On our campuses you’ll find some of the world’s most advanced facilities, while our strong industry links set you up for career success. This is why almost 90% of our graduates are in employment or further education (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).

Employability

Work and study

This is what our MPhys Physics students are doing 15 months after graduating:

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0%are studying and working

£0The median salary of Heriot-Watt students 15 months after graduating

£0The median UK salary of students 15 months after graduating from a similar course

Potential career paths

Engineering professionals

Natural and social science professionals

Business and public service associate professionals

Information Technology Professionals

Student life

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