2plus2 = Open University + Salford University
Physics BSc (Hons)
You can now complete a 2plus2 BSc degree in Physics - in which the first two years are undertaken with the Open University and the last two years are with the University of Salford.
What's it About?
You complete the first two years part-time with the Open University, and then complete the second two years full-time at the University of Salford.
On successful completion of your Open University courses, you will enter straight into Second Year of our Physics BSc degree programme, with the option to take any of the speciality modules. You will attend lectures and laboratory sessions, and will graduate with a BSc (Hons) from the University of Salford after successfully completing two years full-time study.
Physics Careers
Career opportunities on graduation are many and varied, and include Physics and Technology research,
the Aerospace industry, Information Technology, the Optics and Laser industries, Acoustics, Teaching,
and many other fields where a numerate background is required (e.g. banking, stock dealing, other
parts of the finance industry, and development of various types of automated systems).
Recent employers of Graduates from Salford Physics include: ADT, British Nuclear Fuels, European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS) Astrium, Gabriel Scientific Consultancy, and the Royal Air Force.
For a more detailed overview of Physics Graduate employment opportunities see, for example: Career Directions & Working Life from the Institute of Physics, and Typical Job Sectors & Careers Using Physics from physics.org.
Physics Courses, Assessment and Degree Structure
Click on the course titles below to find out more detailed information on, for example, syllabus and course organisation.
Years 1 & 2 at the Open University
Part-time Study
During your part-time study with the Open University, you will be supported by your own personal tutor - who you can meet at tutorials, if you wish to, or keep in touch by telephone and email. Living at home gives you the flexibility, for example, to continue alternative employment during the first two years.
Throughout this period, course material will be delivered by post and electronically. There is a one week residential course to gain experience with laboratory activities and experiments, and also course conferences on the web - where you can chat with your fellow Open University students and study together.
You need to take the following courses:
- Using Mathematics (MST121)
- Exploring Mathematics (MS221)
- Practicing Science (SXR103) (one week residential course)
- The Physical World (S207)
- Practical Science (S288) (or Physics by Experiment, SXR207 if coming to Salford before 2012)
Years 3 & 4 at the University of Salford
At Salford, each year of study is broken down into two semesters - see the Academic Year Calendar for the exact dates of these semesters. In each academic year, your courses add up to a total of 120 'credits'. Each of the following is a 10-credit course, otherless otherwise stated. Final degree class is calculated from the year averages of the last two years (with weightings of 1/4 and 3/4).
Full-time Study
Year 3
Semester 1
Vibrations and Waves
Thermal & Statistical Physics
Introduction to Computational Physics
Theoretical Physics I
Laboratory III - Physics
Option: i) Astrophysics
or ii)
Spacecraft
Semester 2
Introductory Optics
Electricity & Magnetism
Condensed Matter
Quantum Mechanics I
Laboratory IV - Physics
Option: i) Computer Simulation
or ii)
PC Interfacing
Year 4
Semesters 1 & 2
Project - BSc degrees (40 credits)
Semester 1
Nuclear & Particle Physics
Electromagnetic Theory
Quantum Mechanics II
Low Temperature Physics†
Semester 2
Relativity
Solid State Physics
Advanced Optics†
Astrophysics & Particle Physics†
†Further options can be requested
Please note that exact course content is subject to change.
Salford Physics Key Facts
Accreditation:
Our Physics degrees are
accredited
by the Institute of Physics, and so lead to recognised qualification as a physicist.
Entry Requirements:
There are no formal entry requirements for Open University degrees, other than an interest and enthusiasm
for Physics, and a willingness to learn. Entry to the University of Salford's degree programme is subject to you
passing the
Open University's component.
Fees:
For the first 2 years, students pay Open University fees.
University of Salford fees apply for subsequent years of full time study.
How to Apply:
Entry is via the University of Salford, not via the Open University.
Please contact us if you are interested in applying.
Course Enquiries Service:
T +44 (0)161 295 4545;
Email (EU Students);
Email (International Students)
Academic Enquiries at Salford University:
Professor Ian Morrison;
T +44 (0)161 295 5303;
Email
Further Information:
See the Open University's
Frequently Asked Questions.