BSc (Honours) in Natural Sciences (Physics)

In this specialist route available in our BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences (Q64), you’ll develop the knowledge and skills you need to explore the smallest and largest scales of the Universe. You’ll be able to objectively and quantitatively describe, analyse, test and explain phenomena in the physical world, using appropriate mathematical tools and experimental methods.

Key features of the course

• Develops your understanding of core physics concepts and processes that underpin a wide range of phenomena
• Teaches investigative and laboratory skills, including planning and conducting experiments, with the award-winning OpenScience Laboratory
• Develops mathematical, analytical, practical, communication and team working skills
• Accredited by the Institute of Physics

Accessibility

We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:

• studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
• using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
• undertaking practical work or using an online laboratory
• working with specialist reading material such as scientific journals
• using specialist software
• working in a group with other students
• using and/or producing diagrams and/or screenshots
• finding external/third party material online.

This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Cognitive skills
• Practical and professional skills
• Key skills

The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.

Course details

This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• You’ll start Stage 1 with a 60-credit introductory science module, and study one 30-credit mathematics module combined with a further 30-credit module in a complementary subject.
• In Stage 2, you’ll study a 60-credit module and two 30-credit modules.
• In Stage 3, you’ll study two 30-credit modules, choose a further 30-credit module in a complementary subject and complete your degree with a 30-credit project module.

Prepare for OU study with an Access module

We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module.