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Discover how physics explains the workings of the Universe while building practical scientific skills. This certificate introduces classical mechanics, thermal physics, fields, waves, relativity, and quantum physics of solids, atoms, and nuclei, often set in their historical context. You’ll gain experience of experimental physics and develop the ability to analyse and communicate scientific ideas clearly. This certificate provides a solid foundation for further study or developing a career in science and engineering. Endorsed by the Institute of Physics, this certificate also provides sufficient subject knowledge to support secondary school physics teaching to A-Level.
This physics certificate has one stage, comprising 90 credits.
You’ll study one 60-credit core physics module and one 30-credit practical module.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Core physics (S227)60Oct
Remote experiments in physics and space (SXPS288)30Oct

By studying this certificate, you’ll:
You’ll be supported throughout by personal tutors, flexible materials, interactive tools, online tutorials, and regular feedback.
You’ll be awarded a Certificate in Physics upon successful completion.
If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our Academic Regulations or contact us.
You can achieve this certificate in as little as one year and have a maximum of four years to complete it. Our module-by-module approach gives you the flexibility to complete your qualification at a pace that works best for you.
Part-time, you'll study at roughly half the rate of a student on a full-time course at a campus-based university. At a pace equivalent to full-time, you'll study at a rate similar to a student at a campus-based university.
You can complete this certificate in one year by studying at a pace between part-time and full-time.
You can complete this certificate in two years by studying part-time in your first year and at a slower pace in your second.
At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.
As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.
Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:
Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.
Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.
For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.
See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.
Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:
Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.
We recommend* that you’ve passed Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) or be able to provide evidence that you have the required mathematical skills.
You’ll also need appropriate knowledge of basic physical sciences obtained through:
*From October 2027, you must have passed MST124 to study S227.
£6,132*
Your course fees cover your tuition, assessment and study materials, but there are still a few additional costs that can come with studying. For this qualification, you'll need:
*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to a fee limit, as set out in the University's Fee Rules.

Over 85% of our students in England fund their studies with a Tuition Fee Loan, meaning they pay nothing upfront.
Repay in monthly instalments while you study.
Pay for each module with a debit or credit card in one quick, simple payment.
More than 1 in 10 OU students are sponsored by their employer.
Combine your payment options to fund your studies the way you want.
If you’re a serving member of the British Armed Forces (or you’ve recently left), you may be eligible to use ELCs to cover up to 100% of your course fees.
You may be eligible for:
Employees with science qualifications are in demand in the jobs market, particularly if they also have good interpersonal skills and some workplace experience. In addition to specialist knowledge and understanding in the area of physics, this certificate will develop skills in basic scientific literacy and numeracy, locating and interpreting scientific data, and using a computer to find and communicate information. It also offers a sound foundation for progressing to an honours degree in a relevant area.
This certificate is advantageous if you're required to teach secondary school physics but your background is in another area of science. Or, if you're thinking about training to be a physics teacher.
The Institute of Physics (IOP) endorses this certificate as providing sufficient content to support teaching secondary school physics to A-level. Or, those seeking to be physics specialists on entry to PGCE studies.
People with science qualifications are well placed to enter both scientific and non-scientific jobs. The logical, reasoned approach needed for science study is relevant to a wide range of financial, business and public sector employment.

In addition to improving your career prospects, studying with the OU is an enriching experience that broadens your horizons, develops your knowledge, builds your confidence and enhances your life skills.
Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice – including online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service, as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.
In the meantime, if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point (note that some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience):
Credit transfer: apply by 13/08/2026
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Our prospectus will help you explore your course options, get a feel for life as an OU student, and register for study.
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Credit transfer: apply by 13/08/2026
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