Why Study Physics?

Did you know that if you fold a piece of paper 42 times, it would reach the moon?

This might sound impossible but physics explains it perfectly. It’s all about exponential growth! Studying physics ultimately means studying the laws of the world around us, it means better understanding our physical reality and how it’s created. As Albert Einstein said, “I have no special talents, I am only passionately curious.” 

This reflects how curiosity and a sense of wonder are key to the exploration and understanding the physical word. In this blog, we’ll delve into the compelling reasons to study physics and guide you on the next steps if you’re eager to learn more about the world and universe around us.

What Are the Benefits of Studying Physics?

One of the greatest benefits of studying physics is the development of your problem-solving skills. Engaging with complex physical concepts requires a deep understanding of how to approach and solve intricate problems, which can be applied across various fields.

Studying physics also:

• Deepens your understanding of the fundamental laws of nature.
• Provides insight into how the universe operates, from the smallest particles to the largest galaxies.
• Expands your knowledge of how technological advances are driven by physical principles.

Physics also involves rigorous experimentation, data analysis, and mathematical modelling, which naturally improve your analytical and critical thinking abilities. These skills are highly valued in many professions, making physics a versatile and powerful field of study.

What Careers are there in Physics?

There is a wide range of career opportunities in physics. Some of the mainstream job prospects include:

• Research Scientist: Conducting experiments and studies to expand our understanding of physical phenomena.
• Engineer: Applying physical principles to design and develop new technologies and systems.
• Data Analyst: Using physics-based problem-solving skills to interpret and analyse complex data sets.
• Academic Lecturer/Professor: Teaching the next generation of physicists and conducting research at universities.
• Medical Physicist: Working in healthcare to develop and apply medical technologies such as imaging and radiation therapy.

The Institute of Physics has more information about the career paths that physics can take you on.

What GCSEs and A levels Will Help You Study Physics at University?

If you’re aiming to pursue a physics degree at university, it’s important to focus on GCSE and A level subjects that will build a strong foundation in both mathematical and scientific reasoning.

Key subjects include:

• Mathematics: Essential for developing problem-solving skills and understanding complex equations.
• Physics: Directly relevant, providing the fundamental concepts and principles you’ll build on at university.
• Chemistry: Offers a broader understanding of scientific principles that often overlap with physics.
• Computer Science: Helps develop logical thinking and familiarity with computational methods used in modern physics.

These subjects will equip you with the analytical skills, scientific knowledge, and problem-solving abilities essential for success in a physics degree. You’ll also enhance your capacity to approach complex problems logically and systematically – key skills in the study of physics.

What Does NEC’s A level Physics Course Cover?

If you’re interested in studying physics and need a course that fits around your schedule, NEC’s A level Physics course might be the perfect choice for you.

In this distance learning course, you will explore a range of fascinating topics, including:

• Classical Mechanics: Understanding the motion of objects and the forces that influence them.
• Electromagnetism: Exploring electric and magnetic fields and their interactions.
• Thermodynamics: Studying the principles of heat and energy transfer.
• Quantum Physics: Delving into the behaviour of particles at the quantum level.
• Waves and Optics: Examining the properties and behaviour of waves and light.
• Modern Physics: Covering topics like relativity and atomic structure.
• Astrophysics: Investigating the physical properties of celestial objects and the universe.

By engaging with these topics, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of key physical principles and prepare yourself for further study or a career in science and technology.

Fast Track your A level Physics Study

If you want to fast track your study of A level Physics you could consider our Structured Fast Track A level course. Enrolments on this course open in May each year, and you sit your exams the following year. 

That’s just what NEC student Alex did, you can read about his learning journey studying Structured Fast Track A level Physics. 

“The flexibility of studying in my own time with my tutor there to help me if I needed it was a breath of fresh air.” – Alex

Conclusion

Whether you envision a future in physics or simply want to deepen your understanding of the physical world, studying physics offers numerous benefits. Whether you are looking to study physics, chemistry, maths, computer science or something else, find your course today. 

If you are wondering how you will carry out practical work related to your course, check out our handy blog Can You Study A level Science from Home?