Physics
Physics
WJEC A-level Physics
This course is ideal for logical thinkers who have a strong interest in how things work and how the world around us functions.
Is this course right for me?
Complemented by subjects such as maths and chemistry, this qualification is an essential requirement for physics and engineering university courses. For those going on to study other subjects, it is highly regarded by universities. It is also suitable for those who simply have a passion for the subject.
What are the entry requirements?
- Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics
- Physics grade B (plus another Science at grade B) or Science grade BB and Maths grade B (Also need to study AS Mathematics)
- Please check the AS Level Options Grid to see if this subject fits into your chosen programme
- Each application is considered on individual merit
- Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
Current student - what are the entry requirements?
- Successful completion of relevant programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting
What will I learn?
During the two year course, you will develop a deeper understanding of physics and its applications from Newton to the present day. Basic principles introduced at GCSE level are investigated in greater detail, giving you an insight into the controlling forces of the universe.
As well as giving you a solid foundation in physics, this course will also help you to improve your problem solving, critical thinking and analytical skills.
Units to be studied will include:
- Motion, energy and matter
- Force and motion
- Solid materials
- Astrophysics
- Particle physics
- Electricity and light
- Current electricity
- Waves
- The properties of light
- Lasers
- Practical Skills
- Oscillations and nuclei
- Circular motion
- Vibrations
- Thermal physics
- Nuclear physics
- Fields and further mechanics
- Electric fields
- Magnetic fields
- Gravitational fields
- Further mechanics
Will I need to study additional English & Maths skills?
You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:
- the course you are taking at College
- what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
Click below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College.
If you are studying a Workbased qualification:
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications
All other courses:
- Upskilling Destination Programme – an hour and half session a week developing essential research skills, critical thinking, and academic writing techniques, supporting literacy, numeracy, digital literacy and employability skills
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
For English:
- A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
For Maths:
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
- A two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
Learners studying on a Jobs Growth Wales (JGW+) programme will be timetabled into literacy and numeracy sessions. To discuss the opportunity of attending a GCSE resit programme, in addition to their JGW+ timetable, please contact skills@pembrokeshire.ac.uk
Can I do this course in Welsh?
How will I be assessed?
- Practical examination
- Written examination
What can I do next?
This course can lead to a diverse range of career opportunities in a varied range of businesses including: Academic researcher, Acoustic consultant, Astronomer, Clinical scientist – medical physics, Geophysicist, Higher education lecturer, Metallurgist, Meteorologist, Nanotechnologist, Radiation protection practitioner, Research scientist (physical sciences), Secondary school teacher, Sound engineer, Technical author.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- Textbooks - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course, most textbooks are available to loan from the college library or online libraries
- A scientific calculator
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Are there any additional costs?
- No tuition fee
- We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2025/26
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Additional information
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Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.
