Physics is a highly regarded subject and develops many high order skills which are sought after by higher and further education and employers. The study of physics is essential in our modern world. Physics holds the answer to many of the biggest questions of our time. There has never been a more exciting time to be involved in physics: it is a period of huge innovation and discovery. 

In the study of GCE Physics, you will develop your practical skills and your teamwork, your communication and problem-solving skills, and your skills of analysis and investigation. You will also gain valuable experience in research and mathematical skills. If you are interested in the world around you, if you like solving problems and have enjoyed physics so far, you will benefit from deeper investigation into this subject. 

This qualification is best suited to students who aspire to university level education. An A Level in Physics opens doors to many wide and varied career options: in medicine, sciences, research, teaching, nursing, dentistry, veterinary science, technology, forensic science and others. 

AS 1 - 1 hour 45 mins 

Students complete a written examination, consisting of compulsory short answer questions and some that require extended writing. 

Externally assessed written paper 40% of AS - 16% of A level.

AS 2 - 1 hour 45 mins 

Students complete a written examination, consisting of compulsory short answer questions and some that require extended writing. 

Externally assessed written paper 40% of AS - 16% of A level.

AS 3 - Two (1 hour) components 

Students complete an externally assessed test of practical skills, consisting of four short experimental tests and a separate paper requiring the analysis of experimental results. 

Externally assessed 20% of AS - 8% of A level.

A2 1 - 2 hours 

Students complete a written examination, consisting of compulsory short answer questions and some that require extended writing. 

The questions have elements of synoptic assessment, drawing together different strands of the specification. 

Externally assessed written paper 40% of A2 - 24% of A level. 

A2 2 - 2 hours 

Students complete a written examination, consisting of compulsory short answer questions and some that require extended writing. 

The questions have elements of synoptic assessment, drawing together different strands of the specification. 

Externally assessed written paper 40% of A2 - 24% of A level. 

A2 3 Two (1 hour) components 

Students take an externally assessed test of practical skills, consisting of two experimental tests and a separate paper requiring the analysis of experimental results. 

Externally assessed 20% of A2 - 12% of A level.

A qualification in Physics opens up a diverse range of opportunities. Most students that study Physics GCE aspire to further study at university and beyond. Physics provides access to a diverse range of options at university, from manufacturing and medical occupations to computer gaming and the finance sector. This qualification is best suited to students who aspire to university level education. An A Level in Physics opens doors to many wide and varied career options: in medicine, sciences, research, teaching, nursing, dentistry, veterinary science, technology, forensic science and others. 

Research shows Physics graduates can expect to earn more on average than graduates of most other subject areas. Physics also complements a range of other subjects including Maths and other sciences. Industry has created extensive numbers of science-related jobs at all levels, although many companies report they are unable to fill vacancies due to skill shortages. 

If you choose A-Level Physics, you may have the opportunity to take part in the following activities;

• NI Science Festival activities

• Chemistry at Work workshop at Queen's University Belfast

• Tyndall Physics Lecture at Queens

• STEM bus - Forensic Science

• STEM bus - Biology workshop

• CREST awards

• Experiments

• Field Trips