Skip navigation Skip to main navigation for this site Skip to navigation for this section

  • Physics and Mathematics (Certificate of Higher Education)
  • 2013/2014 entry
  • Contact us
  • Assessment

    • Parts 1 and 2 of each subject are assessed by coursework and tests only, with some assignments completed in class and some at home. Part 3 includes both coursework and a final examination (in early June). The Saturday modules are assessed by coursework (Pass/Fail) only.

  • Attendance
      • 2 evenings or afternoons a week for 30 weeks; or 1 evening or afternoon a week if you aim to complete the certificate over 2 years. 
      • 3 Saturdays each for the Study and Research Skills for Science and Mathematics and the Personal Progress and Development Planning modules.
  • Duration

    • 1 year of part-time intensive study, October–June, or 2 years if you decide to take only 1 subject per year.

  • Entry requirements

    • None. You will need to demonstrate a good level of numeracy and English language skills, as well as a keen interest in physics and mathematics. Applicants are advised that this is a very intensive course, which requires a high level of commitment.

  • Fees and funding

    • Part-time (1 year)

      • Home/EU students: £4800 pa
      • Overseas students: £4800 pa

      Part-time (2 years)

      • Home/EU students: £2400 pa
      • Overseas students: £2400 pa
    • Talk to us about fees and funding
  • Location
    • Central London and Stratford.
  • Teaching

    • A variety of teaching methods are used in class, including lectures, presentations, demonstrations, discussions, problem-solving and group work. The physics modules also involve carrying out a number of laboratory experiments, either individually or in small groups. All modules are supported by online learning material. You will also need to do about 12 hours of home study.

Need more help?

Leave your email address and get up-to-date information on finance and our free advice sessions.




By registering your email you are agreeing to receive emails from Birkbeck, University of London. We will not share your details with anyone else. Click here for Birkbeck data policy .

Physics and Mathematics (Certificate of Higher Education) - 2013/2014 entry


  • Overview
    • This intensive course will prepare you for physics, mathematics, engineering and computer science degrees. It includes study skills support and help with your application for degree study. You will gain an overview of the physical universe we inhabit, raising fascinating questions about its underlying structure and the nature of physics. You will also have the opportunity to enhance your problem-solving and laboratory skills. Our team of lecturers, demonstrators and technicians are dedicated to providing a wide range of opportunities for adult learners interested in physics and mathematics and their application in understanding the physical world and related areas such as engineering. On successful completion, you will be guaranteed an interview for Birkbeck's mathematics degrees.
  • Course structure and modules
  • Further study opportunities

    • On successful completion of the Certificate of Higher Education, you may progress to the first year of a variety of degrees, including physics, physical sciences, mathematics, all branches of engineering, computer science and astronomy.

      Students who are awarded the Certificate of Higher Education are guaranteed an interview for related part-time BSc degrees at Birkbeck. The programme is also recognised by other colleges of the University of London as well as other higher education institutions offering full-time degrees.

      We also offer guidance with your UCAS application, should you decide to continue your studies outside Birkbeck.

  • How to apply/enrol