Physics — A Level

Course information

Physics is the science of everything. It spans the very large (like stars and galaxies) to the very small (like atoms and things which make them up), and everything in between. It is the starting point for engineering and the discoveries made by physicists allow biologists and chemists to do their work.
You use your knowledge of physics every day, you intuitively know how objects will move and how they will behave. Physics is at the heart of what makes technology work, from simple things like the wheels on a car to complex electronic devices like your mobile phone.
It is highly valued by employers and universities, precisely because it is challenging and requires students to acquire skills in mathematics, data analysis and how to display data. The skills you will develop will help you in a wide variety of careers, from science to business and finance.
What will I study?
This programme, delivered by a dedicated team of teachers at The City of Liverpool College, gives you a solid grounding in physics. It extends the ideas you will have covered at GCSE (e.g. the physics of motion and electricity) and introduces you to new concepts such as quantum physics and materials.
Subject choices:
There are benefits to studying mathematics alongside physics. You’ll find that the two subjects complement one another, with a strong foundation in maths becoming even more important if you intend to study physics or engineering at university. In most cases, A-level mathematics is one of the entry requirements for a degree in physics. Physics works well alongside Chemistry or Biology, with Chemistry being particularly important if you’re interested in Materials Engineering or Physical Chemistry, whilst is Biology essential for professions like Biophysics, Medical Physics, Medicine or Dentistry.
What can I do now?
If you want a career physics, you should do work experience in places such as Universities, consider a Nuffield Research Placement (http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/nuffield-research-placements) over the summer between first and second year of A-Level and industry. You should follow organisations such as the Institute of Physics, the Institute of Acoustics, and YouTube channels such as Sixty Symbols and Deep Sky Videos.

Qualifications

WJEC AS/A Level Physics - Further details can be found at wjec.org.uk

This course leads to...

Where will it take me?
A qualification in Physics opens doors to a wide range of careers. Physics is involved in our everyday lives and there is a vast range of jobs and careers open to those who have studied physics at any level; great career opportunities exist both inside and outside the lab. A qualification in Physics is essential for many branches of engineering and recommended for higher education courses in Science, Engineering, Electronics, Veterinary Science and Medicine. Physicists will also continue to discover new things about our world and the wider universe, you could; be the next person to discover something amazing!

Entry Requirements

City 6 Entry Requirements for 16-18s:

• The most important entry requirement is that you are committed and determined to do well
• You must achieve a minimum of 2 Grade B's and 3 Grade C's (including English) or equivalent (this equivalency will be discussed at our information evening and then in further detail at interview)
• Students taking the Sciences must also obtain at least a grade B in Maths.
• Students applying to study Physics, Biology, Chemistry, English, French, Spanish, Maths at A-level must obtain a grade B in the subject at GCSE.
• All places are conditional on results, subject to interview in June/July and a suitable reference from your school.

Applicants who are 19 or over will only be accepted onto evening provision for these particular courses.

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Further Information...

Need more information or can’t find the course you’re looking for? We can book you in to speak with our dedicated Advice & Guidance team about your options at The City of Liverpool College. With hundreds of courses and flexible learning, we’re sure to have something to meet your needs.


You can contact us online via applications@liv-coll.ac.uk or call us at any point on 0151 252 3000 with any queries you may have – we’re here to help.
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