Theoretical Physics BSc Honours
2026 entry information
- Study mode and duration
- Full time: 3 years
- UCAS code
- F345
- UCAS institution name and code
- NEWC / N21
- Tuition fees (Year 1)
-
FT Home: £9,790
FT International: £31,500 Scholarships available - Typical entry requirements
-
A-Level: AAB
IB: 34 points
View alternative offers - Course delivery
- On Campus
- Work placement opportunity Study abroad option Professional accreditation and recognition
Course overview
During this course, you'll gain a strong foundation across core physics disciplines. You'll explore theoretical and experimental physics, studying modules from our Physics BSc courses. You'll then specialise in theoretical physics and study:
- advanced electromagnetism
- advanced fluid dynamics
These modules are unique to our Theoretical Physics degrees.
You’ll gain hands-on experience in our high-spec facilities, gaining practical skills for your career. You'll work on projects, applying theoretical knowledge to practical challenges. These could include particle sensing, chemical detection, and other real-world applications.
You'll graduate with an accredited degree and an interdisciplinary skillset in-demand with employers. This course is also ideal for someone interested in research or further study in physics or mathematics.
Flexible degree structure
Our flexible degree structure allows you to tailor your studies. All students follow the same curriculum in Stage 1, with specialisations beginning in Stage 2. You can transfer between Physics disciplines until the end of Stage 1. You can also switch between the BSc and MPhys of your chosen discipline until the end of Stage 2:
- Physics BSc
- Theoretical Physics BSc
- Physics with Astrophysics BSc
BSc or MPhys?
Theoretical Physics is offered at two levels:
- three-year Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- four-year Master of Physics (MPhys)
Our MPhys degree has an extra year of advanced study at Master's level. You’ll study more advanced topics and work on an extended project. You’ll learn about research methodology and work with experts in their field.
Quality and ranking
Professional accreditation and recognition
Professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by professional bodies to ensure they meet the latest industry practices and regulatory standards. This keeps your degree rigorous, relevant, and highly valued by employers, providing a clear pathway into your chosen career.
If you are studying an accredited degree and considering a career in Europe after graduation, it is important to stay informed about international standards. The best resource for current information is the .
This official resource provides essential details on:
- whether your profession is regulated in another country.
- the specific steps you need to take to practice abroad.
- which organisations you should contact to begin the process.
Modules and learning
Modules
The information below is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Most degrees are divided into stages. Each stage lasts for one academic year, and you'll complete modules totalling 120 credits by the end of each stage.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content may change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
During your first year, you’ll study introductory modules in physics and mathematics. You’ll also spend time in the lab working on experiments.
Modules
| Compulsory Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Introductory Algebra | 10 |
| Introductory Calculus and Differential Equations | 20 |
| Multivariable Calculus | 10 |
| Dynamics | 10 |
| Introductory Astrophysics | 10 |
| Introductory Electromagnetism | 10 |
| Introductory Quantum Mechanics | 10 |
| Laboratory Physics 1 | 20 |
| States of Matter, Waves & AC Theory | 20 |
You'll continue learning about the core concepts of physics, including quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. You’ll also study modules in fluid dynamics, and computational methods and professional skills for theoretical physics.
Modules
During your final year, you’ll study more advanced modules and work on two different projects with a focus on theoretical physics.
You'll choose three optional modules.
Modules
| Compulsory Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Advanced Quantum Mechanics | 10 |
| Classical Fields | 10 |
| Quantum Information | 10 |
| Relativity and Fundamental Particles | 10 |
| Advanced Materials and Solid-State Physics | 10 |
| Atoms, Molecules, and Nuclei | 10 |
| Team Project | 10 |
| Individual Project | 20 |
We base these figures and graphs on the most up-to-date information available to us. They are based on the modules chosen by our students in 2025-26.
Teaching time is made up of:
- scheduled learning and teaching activities. These are timetabled activities with a member of staff present.
- structured guided learning. These are activities developed by staff to support engagement with module learning. Students or groups of students undertake these activities without direct staff participation or supervision
Teaching and assessment
Teaching methods
You will be taught via a range of approaches, including:
- lectures and seminars
- small group tutorials
- problem classes
- laboratory sessions
- practical computing sessions
In Stage 1, you’ll work on experiments and projects in our labs. These practical sessions will be about 45 hours in total.
Assessment methods
You'll be assessed through a combination of:
-
Assessments
-
Examinations – practical or online
-
Group work
-
Projects
-
Reports
Skills and experience
Practical skills
This degree will give you practical skills that can be applied across a wide range of industries. You'll also develop highly valued attributes, such as:
- problem-solving
- time management
- resilience
- the ability to meet deadlines
Using our high-spec facilities, and working alongside our expert staff, you'll:
- gain experimental experience in our state-of-the-art laboratories
- work on lab and project-based modules, based on real-world challenges
- develop analytical and computational skills, using industry-relevant software
- enhance your written and oral communication skills
- learn from experts in the field at a leading Russell Group university
Business skills
Physics graduates are highly valued for their transferable skills. You'll graduate with strong abilities, including:
- problem-solving
- a logical, analytical mindset
- big data analysis
- communication
- teamwork
You'll benefit from regular talks and visits from professionals and academics in cutting-edge fields like quantum computing and biomedical applications.
Research skills
We have an interdisciplinary approach to research. Our academic staff are experts in their field, with a diverse range of research strengths.
We have research expertise in:
- novel electronic materials
- semiconductor devices
- computational physics
- quantum fluids
- astrophysics
- relativity
- nanoscale properties of materials
Each module is shaped by the latest research and expertise from our academic staff.
Through the group and individual projects, you'll develop your own research skills by:
- exploring your ideas
- experimenting with theories
- finding innovative solutions
You'll critically analyse experimental data, identify the best approaches, and apply the right techniques for the task. You'll your communication skills, presenting your findings with clarity and evidence.
You will graduate with the skills required for a research career in academia or industry.
Student stories
Adam, a 2022 graduate, shares his highlights of studying Physics at Ãå±±½ûµØ.
Opportunities
Study abroad year
Experience life in another country by choosing to study abroad as part of your degree. You’ll be encouraged to embrace fun and challenging experiences, make connections with new communities and graduate as a globally aware professional, ready for your future.
You can choose to spend up to a year studying at a partner institution overseas. Our overseas partner institutions include:
- Universiteit Leiden, Leiden, Netherlands
- Technisches Universitat Munchen, Munich, Germany
- Institut National Des Sciences Appliques De Rennes, Rennes, France
- Lappeenranta University of Technology, Lappeenranta, Finland
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
There are also lots of options in North America, Australia and Asia, including:
- State University of New York (SUNY) Buffalo, Buffalo, USA
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong
- National University of Singapore, Singapore
- University of Florida, Florida, USA
- San Jose State University, California, USA
- Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
- National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
During your time studying abroad, you will select from a range of modules offered by your host university. Alongside taking some subject-relevant modules, you will be given greater flexibility to choose modules from different disciplines.
If you choose to study abroad, it will extend your degree by a year.
Short-term global opportunities
During your degree, you can take part in short-term global opportunities in locations such as:
- USA
- Cyprus
- Hong Kong
- Singapore
- Sri Lanka
The activities range from four days to eight+ weeks, and include:
- summer schools
- internships
- volunteering
- experiential learning
Funding is available to support students who want to participate. Hear from our students who took part in a short-term global opportunity.
View our video about .
Work placement
Apply your practical skills, increase your confidence and gain real-life work experience to accelerate your career. Take a 9-12-month industrial placement in the UK or abroad. Work placements usually take place in stage 3 of your studies and extend your degree by one year.
You may be interested in
Facilities and environment
Facilities
As a physics student at Ãå±±½ûµØ, you'll be based at our city-centre campus in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics' Herschel Building.
The school has high-specification laboratory facilities equipped with leading experimental and computational physics capabilities, as well as access to world-class telescopes and space missions, such as:
- cryogenics labs
- semiconductor labs
- High-Performance Computing
- data from the Vera Rubin Telescope
- dark lab
- NASA's Kepler/K2, TESS
- JWST space telescopes ESA's PLATO space mission
The Herschel Building also has dedicated study and social spaces, and a computing area.
Support
We take your health and wellbeing seriously and are committed to supporting you throughout your studies so you can fulfil your potential at university. This support includes:
- a personal tutor who is an academic member of staff who can help you with academic and personal issues throughout your degree
- a peer mentor scheme which pairs you with a current student from your course to help you navigate your first year at university
- a staff-student committee, to give you an opportunity to have a say in how your degree works
- Student Wellbeing Advisors who can offer comprehensive listening and support and signpost you to other University support services or external support agencies
Transition team
A dedicated member of the team will be there to support you as you move from school to university study.
The Transition Officer works with Year 1 undergraduates to provide:
- Year 1 pastoral and academic support
- weekly drop-ins
- training sessions on report writing and professionalism
You'll also benefit from our:
- induction programme, including social events, to help you settle in quickly
- activities and events run by our student-run society,
- peer supported academic drop-in sessions to help with assignments
Entry requirements
All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications.
The entrance requirements and offers below apply to 2026 entry.
| A-Level | |
|---|---|
| International Baccalaureate | |
|---|---|
Other UK and the Republic of Ireland qualifications
Alternative offers at Ãå±±½ûµØ
Through one of our contextual or alternative offer routes, you could receive an offer of up to three grades lower than the typical requirements.
Contextual offers
We use certain contextual data from your UCAS form, alongside your application, to consider challenges that you may have faced in your education and the potential effect this may have had on your qualifications. This means you may be eligible to receive a lower contextual offer.
PARTNERS offers
One of the largest and longest support entry routes to university of its kind for students from underrepresented backgrounds. We support applicants from application through to study.
Realising Opportunities offers
A unique programme delivered in collaboration with 10 leading, research-intensive universities in the UK. The programme is open to students in Year 12/first year of college.
Pathways to Ãå±±½ûµØ offers
Pathways to Ãå±±½ûµØ, our national skills entry route, is available for specific subject areas.
High Performance Athletes
We support promising athletes at the application stage, who compete in regional, national or international levels in their sport.
Qualifications from outside the UK
English Language requirements
International Pathway and English Language courses
International Pathway courses are specialist programmes designed for international students who want to study in the UK. We provide a range of study options for international students in partnership with INTO.
These courses are specifically designed for international students who want to study in the UK and progress onto one of our undergraduate degrees. Our , has a range of study options including:
- International Foundation
- International Year One
- English Language courses
Admissions policy
This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Ãå±±½ûµØ. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.
University Admissions Policy and related policies and procedures
Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course.
Additional information
Advice on maths and physics requirements
If you don’t think you will have the exact mathematics and science qualifications referred to in our entry requirements by the time you need them, you may not be sure what to do.
- If you have A-Level qualifications (or equivalent) but not in Maths and/or Physics, you should apply for Physics with Foundation Year. This course gives access to all of our Physics, Astrophysics and Theoretical Physics programmes.
- If you have A-levels (or equivalent) but don't meet the required grade(s) in Maths and Physics, contact us for advice. We may decide to consider you for Foundation Year entry, or it may be that this course is not the best option for you.
- If you have relevant qualifications but not at A-level (or equivalent) standard, you should apply for either Stage 1 or the Foundation Year. The Admissions Tutor will assess your application and offer you the most suitable course. Your offer may include a requirement to complete pre-entry Maths and/or Physics courses and examinations. It may also involve an admissions interview.
- If it has been some time since you completed your qualifications, you should apply for either Stage 1 or the Foundation Year. The Admissions Tutor will assess your application and offer you the most suitable course. Your offer may include a requirement to complete pre-entry Maths and/or Physics courses and examinations. It may also involve an admissions interview.
If you are still not sure, don’t worry. Whatever you apply for, our Admissions Tutors will help you decide which is the best route for you. They may, therefore, make you an offer for a different course from the one you apply for (eg Foundation Year entry instead of Year 1 entry).
Your future
Graduating with a degree in physics
Physics graduates report earning average salaries close to £27,000 on graduation.
Our graduates have gone on to work as:
- power systems engineers
- research software engineers
- programmers
- tax associates
- consultants
Careers support
The School of Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics is supported by the University Careers Service and Learning Partnerships team to ensure you are career-ready from day one. You’ll benefit from: guest lectures from alumni and industry built into modules career-planning sessions and one-to-one support from award-winning careers consultants employer engagement through on-campus events and workshops access to the Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics Employability resource, featuring opportunities, news, and vacancies.
Careers for physicists
Physicists are highly sought after for their analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills. Beyond traditional research and academia, employers in technology, engineering, healthcare, energy, aerospace, artificial intelligence, data science, and scientific consultancy value physicists for their ability to model complex systems, analyse data, and drive innovation. Employability is embedded throughout your degree, with opportunities to:
- Connect with alumni and employers each year
- Gain practical experience through guest lectures, workshops, and industry challenges
- Develop professional networks and career-focused skills
Recent student activities include:
- guest lecture on careers in data at NHS
- guest lecture from Kinewell Energy on Fluid Dynamics
- industry lecture from Northern Powergrid
- workshop by Atom Bank
- Oliver Wyman Data Challenge and guest lecture
- student panel on placement years
Our links with industry
The Department of Physics has extensive research and alumni links with leading companies and external organisations. These connections help inform our teaching and support student networking and career development opportunities.
Our industry links include:
- BBC
- Cosm (Digistar)
- De Beers
- Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
- European Southern Observatory (ESO)
- European Space Agency (EUCLID Space Observatory)
- FreeAgent
- Intel
- Johnson Matthey
- Jumping Rivers
- James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)
- Met Office
- Mind Foundry
- NASA
- National Audit Office
- National Space Centre
- NICD
- Northern Gas Networks
- Oliver Wyman
- Phase Photonics
- Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
- Vera C. Rubin Observatory (LSST)
Careers support
Our Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Tuition fees for academic year 2026-2027
| Qualification: BSc Honours | |
|---|---|
|
Home students full time 3 years |
Tuition fees (Year 1)
£9,790 |
|
International students full time 3 years |
Tuition fees (Year 1)
31,500 |
Year abroad and additional costs
For programmes where you can spend a year on a work placement or studying abroad, you will receive a significant fee reduction for that year.
Some of our degrees involve additional costs which are not covered by your tuition fees.
Scholarships
Find out more about:
How to apply
Apply through UCAS
To apply for undergraduate study at Ãå±±½ûµØ, you must use the online application system managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). All UK schools and colleges, and a small number of EU and international establishments, are registered with UCAS. You will need:
- the UCAS name and institution codes for Ãå±±½ûµØ (NEWC/N21)
- the UCAS code for the course you want to apply for
- the UCAS 'buzzword' for your school or college
If you are applying independently, or are applying from a school or college which is not registered to manage applications, you will still use the Apply system. You will not need a buzzword.
International students can apply through an agent
International students often apply to us through an agent. Have a look at our recommended agents and get in touch with them.
Open days and events
UK open days
You'll have a number of opportunities to meet us throughout the year at our on-campus and virtual open days.
You'll be able to:
- explore our beautiful campus
- find out about our vibrant city
- discover what students think about studying at Ãå±±½ûµØ
You'll also have the opportunity to speak to academic staff and find out more about the subjects you're interested in.
Find out about how you can visit Ãå±±½ûµØ in person and virtually.
Worldwide events
We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Ãå±±½ûµØ. Visit our events calendar to find out when we're visiting your region.
Online events
Get in touch
By phone
Call us on +44 (0) 191 208 3333 and press option 1. Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 10am until 4pm.
Online
Chat to our students
Choosing a university is a big decision. If you've got questions about a particular course, student life or the city of Ãå±±½ûµØ, why not chat to our friendly students or graduates!
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