Course Duration
2 Years
Entry Criteria
Grade 7-7 in combined science
Grade 6 in maths
Grade 5 in English (language or literature)
From the IOP: Physics is a “facilitating subject”, meaning that it’s highly regarded whatever degree or career path you choose. It’s considered essential for science and engineering courses, so it keeps a lot of doors open for you.
Physics opens these doors because of the skills and ways of thinking it teaches you. You’ll pick up mathematical and analytical techniques that are valued in a huge range of careers. You’ll become a critical and creative thinker, and a problem solver.
Physics gives you an understanding of the scientific principles that govern our world. You’ll develop the tools needed to tackle questions about the universe that you’ve always wanted to answer for yourself.
You will delve deeper into familiar topics like measurement, forces, waves, radioactivity, electricity and magnetism and you also get to explore exciting new areas such as particle physics, quantum physics, cosmology and medical physics.
OCR’s A Level in Physics A specification aims to encourage learners to:
Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
Develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
Develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the Subject
Understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society (as exemplified in ‘How Science Works’ (HSW))
Practical endorsement in Physics
Three external exams, sat in June of Y13:
Many physics students go on to further study at university. Some choose to continue with physics, studying a physics degree or specialising in topics like theoretical physics, astrophysics or geophysics. Others choose related subjects like chemistry, biology or maths – but physics also opens pathways to subjects like engineering, design, computing, sports science, medicine, economics and law.
If uni doesn’t appeal and you want to enter the world of work straight after school or college, having physics on your CV can give you an advantage. It shows employers that you have an aptitude for logical reasoning, problem-solving and creative thinking – and it helps you to stand out from the crowd.
It’s also an advantage when applying for many apprenticeships, where you can earn while you learn to become a civil engineering technician, software developer, sound technician – and hundreds of other professions.
Potential careers/areas of work include:
