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Physics courses

You can explore the smallest and largest scales of the Universe with a physics course at The Open University. Our world-leading research and teaching will inform your learning to deliver a study experience to enrich your intellectual and personal development and enhance your career options.

Physics technician in a lab

PhysicsDegree 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Stage 3120 credits
Total of 360 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 6 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 3 years


PhysicsDiploma 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Total of 240 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 4 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 2 years


PhysicsCertificate 

Stage 1120 credits
Total of 120 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 2 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 1 year

Why study Physics with The Open University?

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:

  • Award-winning OpenSTEM Labs, to develop your investigative and laboratory skills, including remote experiments you can control online.

Careers in Physics

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:

  • Analysis and diagnostics
  • Information management
  • Product design and development
  • Science communication
  • Scientific research and investigation
  • Teaching

Looking for something other than a qualification?

The majority of our modules can be studied by themselves, on a stand-alone basis. If you later choose to work towards a qualification, you may be able to count your study towards it.

See our full list of Physics modules

All Physics courses

Browse all the Physics courses we offer – certificates, diplomas and degrees.

See our full list of Physics courses