Course summary

On this course, you can learn from scientists who helped detect the Higgs boson and gravitational waves, and who are leading searches for dark matter. You'll learn how particles are detected, study key theories such as relativity and examine the laws of the universe at the subatomic level. Join the search for dark matter, learn from scientists who helped detect the Higgs boson and gravitational waves, and examine the laws of our universe at the subatomic level. Particle physics is central to some of the biggest recent discoveries in science, and a BSc in Physics with Particle Physics is the best first step you can take to making your own contribution. Like every physics student at Sheffield, your journey begins with heat, motion, quantum mechanics and the other fundamental theories behind everything. In year two, you’ll explore essential physics in even more depth, though you’ll also be starting to specialise in particle physics, with modules on the detection of fundamental particles and special relativity. And at Sheffield, you’ll also learn how practical, lab-based learning brings abstract lecture topics into the real world. Year three is where you can branch out into lots of different areas like nuclear physics and cosmology – all while completing your own research or industrial group project in an area which sparks your curiosity. In fact, because of our close connections with CERN, students often work on projects related to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) – the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator. Whatever opportunity you take, you’ll graduate with hands-on experience investigating real-world physics problems and the skills to chase down a solution. Why study this course?

• No. 1 physics department in the UK - 100% of our research and impact was rated world-leading or internationally excellent by REF 2021.

• The latest equipment - you’ll study in our newly refurbished teaching laboratories, and access loads of specialist technologies – from the telescopes on our roof to our state-of-the-art Quantum Information Laboratory.

• Research opportunities - physics students can access incredible research projects, including a summer research placement, work placements and field trips, thanks to our links with organisations like CERN and the observatories on La Palma in the Canary Islands.

• Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) - our courses meet the educational requirement for you to become a Chartered Physicist.

• Graduate to a career - Our graduates solve practical problems at major employers – they include data scientists at Channel 4 and Manchester United FC, researchers at CERN and the European Space Agency, and technology experts at IBM and Nissan.