Five reasons to study physics at Surrey
What makes our physics degrees different and what’s the secret behind our graduates’ success? Here we reveal five reasons why you should choose the University of Surrey for your physics degree.

Physics students have access to advanced facilities.
1. Fantastic placement opportunities
Surrey won Best University Careers/Employability Service in the UK in 2022. If you study for a BSc you can take advantage of our renowned Professional Training placement programme and get a year’s valuable work experience with a company like:
- Merck
- Airbus Defence and Space
- Tesla Engineering
- BAE Systems.
Meanwhile all our MPhys students go on a unique Research Year with a renowned research institution in the UK or further afield, and get the chance to contribute to innovative global research as part of their degree programme. Read about MPhys student Vadim Rusakov’s research year experience in Spain.
2. Our teaching is inspired by research
From quantum biology to nuclear astrophysics, photonics to medical physics, you’ll learn from scientists who are leading the way in their fields. We’re home to outstanding academics such as theoretical physicist, Royal Society Fellow and well-known broadcaster Professor Jim Al-Khalili – who studied at Surrey as an undergraduate himself.
Hear Professor Al-Khalili’s thoughts on the Surrey experience.
3. We’re partnered with NPL
We have a strategic partnership with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), the UK’s National Measurement Institute and a world leader in developing and applying the most accurate measurement standards in areas such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, the digital world, energy and healthcare.
4. Study in state-of-the-art facilities
As a physics student at Surrey you’ll get to work in our recently refurbished undergraduate teaching labs and do your final year project in one of our high-tech research centres. We have a wealth of state-of-the-art facilities including:
- A student observatory - read more in our Astrophysics Research Group section
- Ion Beam Centre
- Quantum Biology Centre.
Take a tour of our facilities with student Adam.
5. Great employment prospects
Our physics degrees open up a huge range of career opportunities - not only in science and industry but also in sectors such as journalism, law, IT, education and finance. During your time with us you'll get regular chances to attend lectures which expand your knowledge of potential careers, including our new annual 'Innovation' lecture series.
Recent graduates have gone on to work for companies such as:
- Fourth State Medicine Ltd
- Raytheon Systems Ltd
- CGI
- DSTL
- Atkins
- The NHS.
Find out more and discover our courses in physics.