
Study applied physics abroad
An in-depth guide to studying applied physics as an international student.
Applied physics degrees abroad
In applied physics, the principles of physics are used to research, explain, and solve problems in engineering and technology.
Before applying scientific methods to real-world issues, you’ll build a robust understanding of topics like thermodynamics, relativity, and particle physics. You’ll explore the vital role played by physics in industry, and consider how today’s innovative research projects could transform the sector.
Studying abroad is a priceless opportunity to spark tremendous personal and professional growth. Not only will you learn from international experts and witness the cutting-edge developments taking place across the globe, but you’ll also broaden your cultural horizons and form lasting friendships.


Applied physics program structure
Bachelor’s degrees in applied physics traditionally last three years, or four years if you take an optional sandwich year. Completing an industrial placement as part of your BSc program is a great way to gain hands-on experience, consolidate your knowledge, and impress potential employers.
Studying as an undergraduate in the US means you’ll follow the four-year liberal arts model of education. You’ll take general education classes for the first two years of your program before focusing on applied physics courses for the latter half.
Postgraduate qualifications in applied physics are offered at several institutions around the world. An MSc typically takes one year to complete, but it can be studied over two years. A PhD will add another four to six years to your education.
To gain a solid theoretical and practical understanding of the field, you’ll attend lectures, seminars, and tutorials, as well as hands-on workshops, laboratories, and field trips. Exams, reports, presentations, and research projects are amongst the most common assessment methods.
The content of applied physics programs differs from university to university, but the following list outlines some of the core units featured by most institutions:
- Key skills for physicians
- Particles, waves, and quanta
- Electricity and electronics
- Atomic and nuclear physics
- Thermodynamics
- Environmental physics and nanotechnology
- Mathematical methods and techniques
- Materials science
Applied physics program structure
Bachelor’s degrees in applied physics traditionally last three years, or four years if you take an optional sandwich year. Completing an industrial placement as part of your BSc program is a great way to gain hands-on experience, consolidate your knowledge, and impress potential employers.
Studying as an undergraduate in the US means you’ll follow the four-year liberal arts model of education. You’ll take general education classes for the first two years of your program before focusing on applied physics courses for the latter half.
Postgraduate qualifications in applied physics are offered at several institutions around the world. An MSc typically takes one year to complete, but it can be studied over two years. A PhD will add another four to six years to your education.
To gain a solid theoretical and practical understanding of the field, you’ll attend lectures, seminars, and tutorials, as well as hands-on workshops, laboratories, and field trips. Exams, reports, presentations, and research projects are amongst the most common assessment methods.
The content of applied physics programs differs from university to university, but the following list outlines some of the core units featured by most institutions:
- Key skills for physicians
- Particles, waves, and quanta
- Electricity and electronics
- Atomic and nuclear physics
- Thermodynamics
- Environmental physics and nanotechnology
- Mathematical methods and techniques
- Materials science
Best countries to study applied physics
How to study applied physics abroad
-
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Applied physics study abroad programs
Applied physics undergraduate programs
Bachelor's in applied physics
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Applied Physics - BSc University of Regina, Canada
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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18,000 CAD
Fees are displayed in the university's local currency
- Start date
- September
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Applied Physics (Pre-MBA) - BSc Murray State University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
13,920 USD
Fees are displayed in the university's local currency
- Start date
- August, January
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Applied Physics/Engineering Dual Degree - Dual BSc/BEng Stockton University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
21,605 USD
Fees are displayed in the university's local currency
- Start date
- September, January
-
Applied Physics - BSc Arizona State University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
30,634 USD
Fees are displayed in the university's local currency
- Start date
- January, August, May
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Applied Physics - BSc (Hons) University of Dundee, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
20,950 GBP
Fees are displayed in the university's local currency
- Start date
- September
Applied physics graduate programs
Master's in applied physics
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Applied Physics - MSc University of Limerick, Ireland
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
-
14,321 EUR
Fees are displayed in the university's local currency
- Start date
- September
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Science (Applied Physics) research - MSc RMIT University, Australia
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
33,600 AUD
Fees are displayed in the university's local currency
- Start date
- July, February
Doctorate in applied physics
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Applied Physics - PhD RMIT University, Australia
- Program type
- Doctorate
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
33,600 AUD
Fees are displayed in the university's local currency
- Start date
- July, February
Future applied physics careers
Studying applied physics means you’ll graduate with a highly-transferable skill set and exciting employment prospects.
You could apply your analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills to an array of scientific fields, including energy, space, telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing. Here are some of the fascinating roles you could set your sights on:
- Aerospace engineer
- Biomedical engineer
- Nuclear engineer
- Mechanical engineer
- Materials scientist
- Radiologist
- Energy engineer
- Nanotechnologist
No matter which career path you choose to follow, participating in relevant work experience will give you a headstart. As well as supporting you with internship applications, your university’s careers office can help with CV writing, interview techniques, and postgraduate options.
