Applying to St Hugh’s for Physics
Tutors are looking for enthusiastic and highly-motivated students with the ability to apply basic principles to unfamiliar situations.
The language of physics is mathematics and formulating physical theories requires new mathematical structures. Therefore, the tutors are also looking for a good level of mathematical competence and the ability to formulate a problem in mathematical terms and then extract the physical consequences from the solution.
Visit the Physics website for more detail on the selection criteria for this course
Choosing St Hugh’s for Physics
Applications are equally welcome for either the three-year (BA) or the four-year (MPhys or MPhysPhil) courses. Candidates should be expecting to obtain A grades at A-level in both Physics and Mathematics, or the equivalent under another examination system. Additional A or AS levels (or equivalent) may be in any subject: although students with double Mathematics A-levels are at some advantage in the first year, we find that students with a single Mathematics A-level quickly make up the difference.
The basic Physics course covers all aspects of essential experimental and theoretical physics. Undergraduates attend university lectures and laboratory classes, and have tutorials (or attend problem classes) given by the St Hugh’s tutors, or by tutors from other colleges. It is usual for an undergraduate to be taught by at least one of the Tutorial Fellows each term, except in the final year of the MPhys course when teaching is departmentally based. This ensures that a close contact is maintained, so that undergraduates can rely on continuing help and advice.
Professor Don Grainger Dr Jack J. Miller Professor Alexander MietkeIt is a hard course well supported by an excellent set of tutors. – Professor Don Grainger
Course Information
F303
On average, St Hugh’s accepts 6 Physics students per year.
A-levels: A*AA to include Mathematics and Physics. The A* must be in Mathematics, Physics or Further Mathematics.
Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
International Baccalaureate (IB): 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL (the 7 should be in either Physics or Mathematics)
Any other equivalent qualification: View information on other UK qualifications, and international qualifications
Candidates are expected to have Physics and Maths to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or another equivalent. The inclusion of a Maths Mechanics module is also highly recommended. Further Maths is helpful to candidates in completing this course, although it is not required for admission.
All candidates must take the Physics Admissions Test (PAT) as part of their application.
All the information you need to arrange to take your test as well as how best to prepare can be found on your test page.
You do not need to submit written work as part of an application for this course.
- 4 years (MPhys)
- 3 years (BA)
