Theoretical Physics with Mathematics Lancaster University

The technologies of tomorrow will be rooted in our understanding of the physical laws of the universe. Breakthroughs made by theoretical physicists have led to nano materials, solar cells, wireless technologies, and diagnostic imaging. This combined degree gives you 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. As a graduate you will be uniquely equipped with an understanding of physics that sets you up for an exciting, multi-disciplinary future. You could be working on cutting-edge technologies, modelling climate change, or even bringing your advanced mathematical skills to complex issues at the heart of the economy.

Build a degree around two passions

With our three-year BSc Hons Theoretical Physics with Mathematics degree you get the benefit of not one, but two departments where excellence in teaching and research is at the core of what you learn. Taught alongside the School of Mathematical Sciences, your maths foundations are laid down early in the degree, while in the latter parts, the focus shifts to applications of theoretical physics.

What to expect

In the first year, core content will be shared between physics and mathematics covering topics such as quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, group theory and vector calculus. The physics content increases in each subsequent year where you will study topics like solid state physics, ladder operators and variational techniques, complemented by topics from mathematics such as real analysis and linear and abstract algebra. It’s so much more than lectures and workshops; you’ll also spend time gaining hands on experience with experimental physics in our state-of-the-art labs.

Research and group projects

An important and exciting part of your degree is the opportunity to take part in a group project where you can choose a theoretical physics project working alongside one of our expert researchers.

Here are some examples of recent projects:

Theoretical Physics Group Project

• Simulations of quantum computers including quantum game theory

• Cellular automata simulations of disease or fire spreading

• Machine learning applied to real world data

Personal development

You will develop valuable transferable skills that make you highly desirable to future employers. Through working in collaboration, delivering presentations, communicating your research results, using modern computer programs and taking part in experiments, you will grow skills in analytical thinking, logic, reasoning, communication and digital proficiency.

Before graduation, you will have the fantastic opportunity to showcase your transferable skills toolkit at the Physics at Lancaster Annual Conference and Exhibition (PLACE).

3 things our theoretical physics with mathematics students would like you to know:

• It’s a fun and challenging combination of subjects. We get to apply our mathematical brains to theoretical physics questions that need disentangling before heading to the lab to test our models and predictions

• We have great physics-based study and social spaces which are perfect for group work or downtime between lectures. You’ll find us hanging out in the atrium where we work on physics related problems or playing games!

• There are plenty of doors to knock on whenever you need support. You’ll also have a dedicated academic advisor to support your studies

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

A levels

AAA. This should include Mathematics grade A and Physics grade A.

Access to HE Diploma

Generally not accepted

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDD considered alongside A level Mathematics grade A and A level Physics grade A

BTEC in combination with A levels

A level Mathematics grade A plus A level Physics grade A plus BTEC at D

International Baccalaureate

36 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects including 6 in Mathematics HL (either analysis and approaches or applications and interpretations) and Physics HL

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.

T levels

Not accepted

GCSE requirements

English Language grade 4/C.

We will also look at your overall GCSE profile when considering your application as a whole.

We do have flexibility when considering GCSE requirements. Go to our GCSE information for more details.

Additional requirements

You may be asked to attend an interview

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, we require an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component for this programme. English language qualifications for undergraduate study.