A Level Physics
Why Study Physics?
Physics is a fascinating subject that seeks to understand the universe we live in. Physicists have been responsible for some of the most ground breaking and influential discoveries throughout history. Humanity’s knowledge of nature has allowed us to land on the moon, develop global (near instant) communication systems and harness the planet and sun’s energy resources to fuel our modern society.
Studying Physics allows us to learn about this journey of discovery, the implications and uses of these revolutionary ideas in society whilst developing our knowledge of how nature works and our problem solving capability.
A level Physics delves into the depths of the big topics in Physics. Much of this understanding of nature is described by mathematics and so at least 40% of the marks in the examinations will be mathematics based. A level Mathematics is by no means mandatory; however, prospective students must have a strong GCSE Mathematics grade in order to access the material.
What are the Career Opportunities?
Physics used to be what the Russell Group called a ‘facilitating subject’. The Group has recently removed the term; however, the premise still stands – Physics is a subject that is commonly required or preferred by universities for access to many courses and is well regarded.
An A-level in Physics provides many opportunities in a variety of careers. These include engineering, medicine, architecture, electronics, telecommunications, software engineering, aerospace engineering, radiography, meteorology and computer science.
Course Outline
Students studying A Level Physics will explore the following topics:
- Measurements and their errors
- Particles and radiation
- Waves
- Mechanics and energy
- Electricity
- Further mechanics and thermal physics
- Fields
- Nuclear physics
They can also choose one option from:
- Astrophysics
- Medical physics
- Engineering physics
- Turning points
- Electronics
