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An image to illustrate the Diploma of Higher Education in Physics
Explore the smallest and largest scales of the Universe with this physics diploma. You’ll study fundamental concepts and learn to describe, analyse, and explain physical phenomena objectively and quantitatively using mathematical tools and experimental methods. Along the way, you’ll strengthen problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills, giving you the tools to tackle complex questions. This qualification lays the groundwork for further study in physics or related disciplines, while equipping you with transferable skills for careers in bioinformatics, engineering, renewable energy technology, research, or teaching.
This Diploma of Higher Education is the same as Stages 1–2 of our BSc (Honours) Physics (R51) and Master of Physics (M06).
This physics diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
You’ll choose one of three starts: the standard start provides an interdisciplinary foundation in science, the basic maths start develops essential maths skills, and the advanced start is for those who have already studied some maths or physics. Read the entry requirements to decide which start is right for you.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Questions in science (S111)60Oct | Feb
Essential mathematics 1 (MST124)30Oct | Feb
You'll choose one from:
Physics and space (SM123)30Oct
Essential mathematics 2 (MST125)30Oct | Feb

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study all four of the following:
Discovering mathematics (MU123)30Oct | Feb
Essential mathematics 1 (MST124)30Oct | Feb
Essential mathematics 2 (MST125)30Oct | Feb
Physics and space (SM123)30Oct
MST125 includes a remote exam you'll take at home or another suitable location. The exam will be invigilated online by ProctorU, a service based outside the UK and with whom you must agree to additional Terms of Service. Find out more about online invigilation.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Essential mathematics 1 (MST124)30Oct | Feb
Physics and space (SM123)30Oct
You'll choose one from:
Astronomy (S284)30Oct
Planetary science and the search for life (S283)30Oct
You'll choose another 30-credit module from the list above or from:
Essential mathematics 2 (MST125)30Oct | Feb
Introducing statistics (M140)30Oct | Feb

You’ll study a 60-credit core physics module, a 30-credit practical module and a 30-credit applied mathematics module.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study all three of the following:
Core physics (S227)60Oct
Mathematical methods (MST224)30Oct
Remote experiments in physics and space (SXPS288)30Oct

By studying this diploma, you’ll:
You’ll be supported by personal tutors, high-quality materials, online tutorials and remote access to physics laboratory facilities.
You’ll be awarded a Diploma of Higher Education in Physics upon successful completion.
You'll also have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
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 diploma in as little as two years and have a maximum of 12 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.
If you choose the standard or advanced start, you can complete this diploma in two years by studying at a pace equivalent to full-time. That’s similar to a student at a campus-based university.
If you choose the basic maths start, you can complete this diploma in three years by studying Stage 2 at a pace equivalent to full-time. That’s similar to a student at a campus-based university. You’ll study Stage 1 part-time. That’s roughly half the rate of a student on a full-time course at a campus-based university.
If you choose any start, you can complete this diploma in four years by studying part-time. That’s roughly half the rate of a student on a full-time course at a campus-based university.
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.
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
You'll choose one of three starts depending on your current mathematical and scientific knowledge:
Standard start
We recommend the standard start if you have a GCSE grade 4 or above in mathematics (or equivalent). This start provides an interdisciplinary foundation before you focus on physics.
The standard start begins with Questions in science (S111) and Essential mathematics 1 (MST124):
Note: S111 will develop your mathematical skills and help you prepare for MST124.
Basic maths start
We recommend the basic maths start if you don’t have a GCSE grade 4 or above in mathematics (or equivalent). This start develops your maths skills from a basic level to prepare you for more advanced study. You may want to consider studying an Access module first.
The basic maths start begins with Discovering mathematics (MU123):
Advanced start
The advanced start is suitable if you have an A-level or Scottish Higher qualification in mathematics or physics (or equivalent). This start includes OU level 2 modules in Stage 1.
The advanced start begins with Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) and Physics and space (SM123):
If you’ve studied at university level before, you may be able to transfer the academic credit you've been awarded towards an OU qualification. This could save you time and money by reducing the modules you need to study.
It’s not just university study that can be considered; you can also transfer study from a wide range of professional or vocational qualifications, such as HNCs and HNDs.
You should apply to transfer credit before registering, at least four weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where, and when, and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.
For more details and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

4 years
£4,088*
A diploma is worth 240 credits. The fee per year is based on studying 60 credits per year for 4 years.
£16,352*
Our qualifications cost less than equivalent-level qualifications offered at campus-based universities.
Compare the cost of studying at the OU with other campus-based universities in England.
Honours Degree
Honours Degree
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£29,370
£29,370
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£24,528
£24,528
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£4,842
£4,842
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£19,580
£19,580
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£16,352
£16,352
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£3,228
£3,228
Certificate of Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£9,790
£9,790
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£8,176
£8,176
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£1,614
£1,614
Qualification
Qualification
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
Honours Degree
Honours Degree
£29,370
£29,370
£24,528
£24,528
£4,842
£4,842
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education
£19,580
£19,580
£16,352
£16,352
£3,228
£3,228
Certificate of Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
£9,790
£9,790
£8,176
£8,176
£1,614
£1,614
*Based on maximum chargeable fees for the 26/27 academic year.
**The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to the part-time fee limit, as set out in section 5 of the University's Fee Rules.
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:
By the time you achieve your qualification, you’ll have developed a range of transferable skills that are highly valued in the labour market – such as analytical, numerical and communication skills, teamworking, problem solving and proficiency in using computers. You’ll also have a good understanding of where your strengths and interests lie, and be well prepared for your next step – whether it’s further study or employment.
With a physics qualification, you’re well placed to enter both scientific and non-scientific jobs. The logical, reasoned approach needed for physics study is relevant to a wide range of private and public sector employment, so those with a good knowledge of physics and of its methods and techniques – particularly those who have good communication and interpersonal skills – are in demand.
Growth areas are predicted to be energy and sustainability, healthcare, telecommunications, bioinformatics, and technology transfer (transfer of scientific expertise to commercial products). Note that some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience.
Employers include engineering companies, renewable energy companies, central government, the financial sector, IT companies, the NHS, universities and others – in roles such as:
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 beyond your degree):
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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