Physics A Level

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Learner:School leaver (16-19), International, Adult

Subject:A-Levels

Course type:Full Time

Level:3

Duration:2 Academic years

About the course

The A Level Physics course is a full-time, two year course for those 16+. Why should you study Physics? Physics is more than a subject – it trains your brain to think beyond boundaries. Physics is the attempt to explain how everything in the universe works: from particles smaller than an atom to the evolution of the universe. Ethan (our Physics Tutor) has a PhD in particle physics and has worked at both the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in CERN and the HERA collider in Hamburg. This qualification should be taken alongside two other A Level subjects and depending on your future career plans, it sits well alongside other science-related courses.

In Year 1 you will study: electricity, mechanics, materials, waves, quantum mechanics and particle physics. Year 2: thermal physics, fields (gravitational, electrical and magnetic) and nuclear physics. You will also choose an option from: astrophysics, engineering physics, medical physics or turning points in physics.

What are the entry requirements?

You will need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9 which must include grade 6 in either Double Award Science or GCSE physics. You also need to have a 6 or above in Maths and a 4 or above in English (on the higher papers). Enrolment is subject to satisfactory completion of an induction period. You may wish to consider an alternative such as the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science which is a mixture of coursework and exams. In your second year you will be expected to use AS Level maths to answer questions, so it is strongly suggested that you qualify and opt for A Level maths.

Where can I progress next?

Successful completion of A Level Physics gives you access to university to study physics or other areas including engineering and medicine. Past students have gone onto Russell Group Universities to study Physics with Maths and Electronic Engineering to name a few. Some of the careers students can eventually progress onto are: aeronautical engineer, architect, climatologist, doctor, nuclear scientist, pharmacist, teacher or mathematician.

Is this course free?

At South & City College Birmingham, we offer a wide range of courses for most age groups.

School Leavers: For learners who are between the ages of 16 to 18, studies will be free.

Adults: For learners who are aged 19 or over, the cost of study will depend on the course or programme that you choose. Some courses may even be free*. If the course is not free, students aged 19 at the start of their programme who wish to study need to either pay their course fees, or take out an Advanced Learning Loan.

*Eligibility criteria applies. There may be an exception for students aged 19 or over that are taking their first full Level 3 qualifications (equivalent to A Levels and Access to HE Diplomas), who could be supported by the Learner Support Fund, or free adult course funded by the WMCA. To find out what financial support is available to you or whether your course is free, call our friendly admissions team on 0121 694 5000 during office hours, or email us via: admissions-shared@sccb.ac.uk, we look forward to hearing from you.

Full details regarding our adult funding, or learner loans can be found on our website via: Money Matters

Higher Education: If you are planning to undertake one of our Higher Education courses you can apply for a loan with Student Finance England, or apply for an Advanced Learner Loan with the college to support towards your course fees. Adults may be eligible for FREE tuition through the WMCA's free courses for jobs offer.

Full details regarding our adult funding, or learner loans can be found on our website via: Money Matters

Enquire via our website today to chat to one of our Admissions team and make your right choice with South and City College Birmingham. Whatever your passion, we are here to help you land on your dream career path. Email: admissions-shared@sccb.ac.uk to find out what financial support is available. With various funds, loans and bursaries on offer, we may be able to help with travel expenses & childcare costs.

How will you learn?

Practical work is an integrated part of the course (supported by modern lab facilities and new data-logging equipment) and is used regularly. More assessed practicals are carried out than the minimum 12 and this further develops students’ ability to perform on their practical skills exams. The college also holds activities for British Science Week such as “Meet the Scientist” event. We also hold A Level revision workshops and conferences as part of developing study skills.

Karuna Rivera-Gutorow, A Levels in Media Studies, Film Studies and English Language & Literature)

“ There’s been some very good and inspirational teachers here. My Film Studies teacher Donna Drew just taught me about Linkedin, guided me in the right direction about what contacts to get to be a director. The tutors give really good guidance and they feel like actual humans as well, that’s the good thing about the college. You can talk to them, they’re like your friend.”

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