Physics degrees with a year in Europe

Undergraduates studying physics at York have several opportunities to study abroad as part of their degree programme. A period of study abroad provides a chance to experience a new culture, as well as a new learning environment. Having learnt and used a second language is also an invaluable qualification for a new graduate.

These degrees are four years duration (for both BSc and MPhys) and involve spending a full year in France at the University of Lille, in Germany at the Universities of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Münster or Heidelberg, or in Italy at the University of Bologna. You will spend the first two years in York studying the core physics course and attending language classes given by the Language Teaching Centre under the Languages For All (LFA) scheme. It is expected that the first year's course will be at the intermediate level, and the second year's course at the advanced level of the LFA programme. This means that to apply for these courses you should possess at least a GCSE grade C in the appropriate language. Language courses will also be given at the host Universities.

Applying

There are NO separate courses code for any 'Year in Europe' physics degrees except for the joint-honours Maths and Physics BSc. The 'Year in Europe' option may be combined with any of our degree programmes except Maths and Physics MPhys. If you are interested in applying for a 'Year in Europe' then you can do this by choosing the standard UCAS course code and specifying '3 year, or 4 year Europe' in the 'Further details' part of the 'Choices' section of the UCAS application form. Alternatively, you can transfer onto this option after arriving in York.

MPhys degrees

If you are taking the MPhys degree with a Year in Europe you will have a prescribed set of courses which you will have to attend while away from York and may also have a small amount of directed reading to follow. You will be examined on your work while abroad and must obtain satisfactory marks in order to proceed with the MPhys degree. On return to York you will enter the fourth year of the MPhys degree.

BSc degrees

If you are taking the BSc degree with a Year in Europe you will have some recommended courses to attend while away, chosen to complement the courses at York, but you will be free to choose other course which are of interest to you. On return you will enter the third and final year.

For both degrees the final assessment will include a component based on the language classes, and the degree certificate will record the fact that part of the degree was taken abroad.

Other study abroad

If you would like to spend a shorter time studying abroad you can apply to participate in one of our established SOCRATES/ERASMUS exchanges. You spend the Summer term of your second year studying at Lille, Erlangen-Nuremburg, or Bologna. These schemes are subject to annual renewal.

If you wish to take part in these exchange schemes you can take a language course as part of the first year physics course and may attend the appropriate LFA course in your second year.

In addition to the Erasmus scheme, exchange schemes with some universities in North America, Asia and Australia are possible. Physics students can apply for places on these schemes in competition with other students from other departments within the University.