Theoretical Physics

Throughout the first two years of your degree, you’ll study core physics topics, including quantum physics, relativity, and solid state physics. Alongside this, you will explore mathematics topics such as differentiation and integration, vector calculus, and matrices. You’ll also have the option to take modules offered by our research groups, such as astrophysics or nanophysics, or even electives from other departments via discovery modules. We expect you to gain an understanding of basic laboratory skills in year one, so that you can gain a better sense of how experimentation and theory work together in physics.

In your final year, you can choose advanced options from a wide range of modules in both physics and mathematics. In addition, you will choose either to extend your understanding of current theoretical physics by carrying out a critical literature review or to gain experience of actual research by undertaking a project. The literature review can deal with cutting-edge topics such as string theory or quantum computing. The research project is related to the School’s research interests in theoretical physics, such as liquid state physics, gauge fields, knots and polymers, biological membranes and quantum information.

When you finish this programme, you’ll have a sound knowledge and understanding of the core observations, concepts and quantitative theoretical structures that constitute our contemporary understanding of the physical world, as well as an enhanced interpersonal skillset of problem solving, independent learning, and verbal and written communication and presentation skills, all of which will help you to progress into your desired career path.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Introductory Linear Algebra 10 credits
• Physics Laboratory 1- Introduction to Experimental Physics (A) 10 credits
• Physics Laboratory 2- Introduction to Experimental Physics (B) 10 credits
• Physics 1- Fundamental Forces 25 credits
• Physics 2- Properties of Matter 25 credits
• Computing 1- Fundamentals of Programming 10 credits
• Maths 1- Scalars and Vectors 10 credits
• Maths 2- Multivariable Calculus 10 credits

Optional modules

• Introduction to Medical Imaging 10 credits
• Stars and Galaxies 10 credits
• Planets and the Search for Life 10 credits
• Introduction to Nanotechnology 10 credits
• The Atmosphere of Planet Earth 10 credits
• Introduction to Meteorology and Weather Forecasting 10 credits
• Water in the Environment 10 credits

Discovery modules

• Number Systems 15 credits

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Communicating Physics 5 credits
• Physics 3- Fields and Energy 25 credits
• Physics 4- Quantum and Nuclear Physics 25 credits
• Maths 3- Matrices and Operators 10 credits
• Maths 4- Transforms and Partial Differential Equations 10 credits

Optional modules

• Science Education: Issues and Challenges 10 credits
• ...