The course draws on the school’s research strengths in areas such as astrophysics, cosmology, quantum and classical gravity, condensed matter, nanoscience, and quantum technology, with a growing emphasis on AI in scientific discovery.
This course provides a good foundation in core physics and the mathematical methods essential for modelling physical systems. In the first two years, you will develop skills in experimental, mathematical, computational, and data analysis techniques, while building your professional and collaborative abilities.
In year two, you will begin specialising with a theoretical module on analytical methods in classical dynamics and symmetry in physical systems. The final year focuses on advanced theoretical methods, specialist physics options, and research skills. You will carry out an individual project in mathematical or computational physics and complete a group project to apply your skills in a team setting.
Research undertaken within the School of Physics and Astronomy, by Professor Sir Peter Mansfield, was recognised with a 2003 Nobel Prize for the invention of Magnetic Resonance Imaging body scanners. This technology has already helped more than half a billion people worldwide. More recently, our use of quantum technologies to understand how the brain works is changing the way that neurological conditions are detected and treated.
Our courses offer a wide range of optional modules. You can study topics as diverse as cosmology, nanoscience, and medical imaging and learn from experts in those fields. There is flexibility to transfer between most physics courses after the first year.
Some of our teaching staff share their love of physics worldwide through the popular Sixty Symbols YouTube channel. Our unique, student centred MSci course offers innovative teaching methods, with few to no exams in the final year.
We encourage students to share their fascination with physics with the wider community through our outreach programme. This programme can help you further develop skills such as organisation, communication and team working. We also have an active student society, PhysSoc, which organises social events throughout the year. Our mentoring scheme gives new starters the opportunity to connect with more experienced physics students, helping you settle into university life.
Additional opportunities
Year in industry: Our Physics with Year in Industry degree courses give you the opportunity to spend a year on placement with an industrial partner. These placements enable you to apply your learning to a practical setting within a physics-related industry.
Summer research internships: You may have the opportunity to undertake a paid summer research internships within the School of Physics and Astronomy.
Study abroad: There is also the opportunity to broaden your experience by undertaking a placement year with an industrial or commercial organisation or studying at an overseas institution between your second and third year. Successful completion of this additional year will lead to the award of either BSc Physics with Theoretical Physics with a Placement Year or BSc Physics with Theoretical Physics with International Study.
Learn from award-winning academics who are recognised by the Institute of Physics. You could work with them on your research project.
Benefit from our cutting-edge research activities that inform your learning. Experts in dark energy, medical imaging and quantum sensing teach on modules.
Take advantage of our involvement in the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy to network with potential employers.
Proven results
We’re ranked top 20 for physics and astronomy in the Complete University Guide and The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.
90.6% of physics and astronomy graduates were in sustained employment, further study or both three years after graduation (LEO data from 202223 tax year, published in 2025).
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