Program Overview

Taught jointly with the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, this degree combines core physics and specialised theoretical physics with pure mathematics, creating a challenging and rewarding course. This provides an understanding of the mathematical foundations of physics; for example, you will learn how quantum mechanics is underpinned by the powerful mathematical concept of a Hilbert space.

Mathematical foundations are laid down early in the degree, whilst in the latter parts the focus shifts to applications of theoretical physics. In the first year, content will be one-third quantum physics and electromagnetism and two-thirds mathematics, covering modules such as Quantum Physics and Electromagnetism, and the core of Mathematics including geometry and calculus, numbers and relations, and probability.

The physics content increases in each subsequent year. Core physics modules are complemented by modules from the theoretical physics degree and mathematical topics such as Group Theory and Differential Equations. You will also carry out a group project on current research topics such as machine learning, cryptography and the spread of infectious diseases.

By the fourth year, the programme is three-quarters physics, one-quarter mathematics. MPhys students will complete an extended research project on a topic such as quantum computation, or geometry and electrodynamics, alongside advanced modules.

Example core modules:

• Statistical Physics
• Abstract Algebra
• Quantum Physics

Example optional modules:

• Hilbert Spaces
• Groups and Symmetry
• Linear Systems