We use cookies to make sure our websites work effectively, to improve your experience and to serve you relevant advertising across selected websites. For more information on the types of cookies we use and how we use them please see our Cookie Policy.
To use our website with all cookies enabled, select "Accept all cookies".
If you want to opt out of all (except strictly necessary) cookies then select "Reject all cookies".
If you want to choose the cookies we use then select “Manage your cookies”.
You can change your cookie settings at any time by visiting Cookie management in our footer.
Manage your options
The Open University takes the privacy of its entire community extremely seriously. When you provide us with your personal data, including preferences, we will only process this information in accordance with the purposes for which it was collected. Please be aware that the preferences you set below will apply globally across OU sites.
Accept all cookies
Opted-Out
Strictly Necessary Cookies
These cookies are necessary for website functions such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or completing forms. By using this site, you agree we may place these cookies on your device.
Cassie Cookie
Cassie enables us to capture users preferences compliantly under regulatory frameworks.
Analytics
Opted-Out
These cookies collect information about how visitors use our websites in order to improve them. They do not identify the individual user.
Analytics cookies
Opted-Out
these cookies collect information about how visitors use our websites in order to improve them. They do not identify the individual user.
Tracking and personalisation
Opted-Out
These cookies allow our websites to remember choices you make and your activity, e.g. your user name, and search and browser preferences. This enables a more personalised experience and more relevant communications.
Tracking/personalisation cookies
Opted-Out
Tracking/personalisation cookies: these cookies allow our websites to remember choices you make and your activity, e.g. your user name, and search and browser preferences. This enables a more personalised experience and more relevant communications.
Optimizely Cookie (deleted)
Opted-Out
Optimizely Cookie (deleted)
Advertising
Opted-Out
These cookies collect information about your browsing habits in order to make advertising relevant to you and your interests.
Advertising cookies
Opted-Out
Advertising cookies: these cookies collect information about your browsing habits in order to make advertising relevant to you and your interests.
England
Please tell us where you live so that we can provide you with the most relevant information as you use this website.
If you are at a BFPO address please choose the country or region in which you would ordinarily be resident.
Accessibility statement
Physics at The Open University explores the laws and patterns that shape the universe, from the behaviour of matter and energy to the evolution of stars and galaxies. You’ll uncover how science explains the world around us while developing your mathematical, analytical and problem-solving skills. With flexible, supported study, you’ll gain knowledge that can lead to careers in research, engineering, technology, education and beyond.
Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Stage 3120 credits
Total of 360 credits
How long will it take?
Part-time: 16–18 hrs/week for 6 years
Full-time: 32–36 hrs/week for 3 years
Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Total of 240 credits
How long will it take?
Part-time: 16–18 hrs/week for 4 years
Full-time: 32–36 hrs/week for 2 years
Stage 1120 credits
Total of 120 credits
How long will it take?
Part-time: 16–18 hrs/week for 2 years
Full-time: 32–36 hrs/week for 1 year
Join the UK’s only distance-learning higher education provider able to develop comprehensive experimental skills using online tools and assets. You’ll be able to study at a pace that suits you and your other life commitments, enhanced by our innovative teaching methods.
You’ll also have access to:
People with physics qualifications are well placed to enter both scientific and non-scientific jobs. The logical, reasoned approach needed for physics study is relevant to various employment sectors. For this reason, physics graduates – particularly those with effective communication and interpersonal skills – are very much in demand.
A physics qualification from the OU could help you start a career in:
Study individual modules to build your skills or explore a new interest – and count them towards a qualification if you decide to take your studies further.
See our full list of Physics modules
Browse all the Physics courses we offer – certificates, diplomas and degrees.