Systemically Designed Degrees for Real-World Challenges: A case study on Physics curriculum design at Loughborough University

Abstract

We present a ground-up redesign of the undergraduate physics degree at Loughborough University, driven by the principle of authenticity in academic and industrial practice. Departing from conventional incremental reforms, we adopt a systems-engineering approach to programme-level curriculum design, treating the degree as an integrated system with verifiable performance. This methodology aligns stakeholder-derived requirements with vertically-integrated threads in theory, computation, laboratory practice, and professional skills. We demonstrate that this approach enables students to achieve levels of disciplinary and cross-disciplinary competence beyond those typically expected at undergraduate level. Outcomes are supported by graduate destinations, enhanced student performance, and positive external evaluations, including national accreditation. Our results suggest that rigorous, system-level curriculum design can yield transformational gains in both capability and confidence.