University re-introduces physics

The university is introducing a natural sciences degree

A university that axed its physics degree said it is re-introducing the subject in a new format.

Newcastle University closed its pure physics courses in 2004 because of a lack of funds and falling numbers of applications from students.

Following a government report into the impact of course closures, a Natural Sciences degree will be launched.

It will be available in 2006, allowing students to study three major subjects from selected sciences.

The subjects available will be physics, chemistry, mathematics, molecular biology and computing science.

There will also be the option of replacing any one of these subjects with two minor subjects that are relevant to a scientific career in industry or research.

'Emerging industries'

Professor Malcolm Young, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for science, agriculture and engineering at the university, said: "We are convinced that the degree will appeal to those talented students who would rather study a range of sciences rather than a single science.

"I am certain that employers will be very interested in Natural Science graduates, especially in new and emerging industries such as nanotechnology, materials sciences and molecular engineering."

Former Education Secretary Charles Clarke ordered the Higher Education Funding Council for England report on vulnerable strategic subjects, after concerns about the impact of course closures on the UK's economic competitiveness.

The university said it will continue to offer chemistry, maths, biology and computing science degree courses in their own right.