Physics and Astronomy

Sample timetable

Depending on the optional courses you choose, your weekly timetable in year 1 is likely to involve a mixture of different class types. As well as time spent in classes, you will need to spend some time outside of class consolidating what you have learnt, preparing for interactive sessions, workshops, practicals or tutorials, or completing coursework.

Click below to view the sample timetable.

Why study Physics and Astronomy at Edinburgh 

Our undergraduate programmes provide a comprehensive study of physics and its connections with other disciplines. By studying physics and astronomy, you'll explore essential topics like classical and quantum mechanics, relativity, electromagnetism, and thermal physics. You will learn the fundamental principles of physics and start to specialise as you progress through your programme.

Our flexible systems allow you to choose optional courses in different subjects during your first two years, allowing you to explore potential interests. In 4th year you will undertake a group research project, enabling you to develop experimental design, project management, and reporting skills. MPhys students in 5th year will undertake a substantial individual project, typically working within one of the school’s research groups.  

Throughout your degree, you will be supported by a combination of academic and dedicated student experience and administrative staff who will be able to provide you with or direct you to appropriate support for challenges you might face. You'll develop critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and hands-on lab experience. You will be taught through a combination of lectures, workshops, tutorials, computing and experimental practicals. Typically, in first and second year, teaching primarily takes place in larger lectures and workshops. By third and fourth year, lecture classes tend to be smaller, with small-group tutorials. During this time, the focus shifts to specialised courses and more independent study.

Our teaching laboratories cover all disciplines of experimental physics and final year projects are frequently hosted at our world-class research facilities, including: super computing services; a state of the art scanning confocal microscope in soft matter; a high magnetic field laboratory including dilution capable of 15 mK temperatures; and a flow and high-pressure chamber for planetary environmental simulation.

There are plenty of events and networking opportunities in the school, creating spaces for you to connect, share, and grow within a vibrant and inclusive student community. For example, there are pizza events, movie nights and various get togethers across the year, helping you to settle in and make connections. The Physics and Astronomy Society is open to all students who are interested in physics and astronomy, hosting a variety of events like academic talks, observing nights, and observatory tours.

For students interested in studying abroad, there is an opportunity to apply for a year of study abroad, allowing you to spend one academic year away from Edinburgh.

All programmes have the same entry requirements. There is a lot of flexibility in courses and you can swap between degrees later in the programme (depending on the options taken).