Theoretical Physics
| Award | Attendance | Study | Duration | Start | Domestic fees | International fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSc (Hons) | On-Campus | Full-time | 3 - 4 years | September | £9535 per year | £24000 per year |
About Theoretical Physics, BSc (Hons) - at Swansea University
Theoretical Physics addresses the meaning of everything by employing the language of mathematics to understand the universe. From quantum information and grand unified theories of particle physics, to dark matter and cosmology, this subject can take you anywhere.
Our three-year BSc Theoretical Physics degree will teach you how fundamental physics and mathematical techniques are applied to understand advances in quantum information, cosmology, semiconductors, lasers, nuclear & particle physics.
You will explore the big questions, such as how did the universe begin, what are space and time made of and is it possible to recreate in a laboratory the conditions that existed seconds after the big bang?
You will have the opportunity to work on advanced projects, under the supervision of internationally recognised theoretical physicists in Swansea.
Why Theoretical Physics at Swansea?
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11th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2025)
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3rd in the UK for Teaching Quality (Guardian University Guide 2025)
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5th in the UK for Teaching on my Course* (NSS 2024) * Based on the average positivity score across questions 1 to 4 in the NSS 2024 when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide
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Top 201-250 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Physics at Swansea University is a widely admired degree that attracts students from across the world.
Your learning will be shaped by the large theoretical physics (PPCT) group with inspirational academics such as Professors Carlos Nunez and Tim Hollowood, internationally renowned for their research contributions to string theory, quantum field theory and black hole physics.
The Particle Physics & Cosmology Theory group in Swansea is one of the largest in the UK, with 12 academic staff engaged in research in a wide range of topics in Theoretical Physics.
Your Theoretical Physics Experience
- A flexibly structured degree path means you have the opportunity to study abroad for a year or work in industry for a year, either locally, nationally or overseas.
- Our common student & staff space (the Event Horizon) overlooking spectacular views of Swansea Bay, provides an ideal location for quiet study, informal discussions and lunches.
- The Physics department and the Swansea University Physics Society sponsor frequent social, and academic events such as departmental colloquia and distinguished lectures to bring students and staff together.
- Elected student reps for each year and for the Swansea University Physics Society (PhySoc) ensure that every student voice is heard through regular meetings with HoDs.
- Our groups in Particle Physics and Cosmology Theory, Applied Materials, and the ALPHA anti-matter collaboration with close ties to CERN, ensure that our teaching is informed by the latest research. Students have the opportunity to do a summer internship at CERN and undertake final year projects with any of our major research groups.
Theoretical Physics Employment Opportunities
Our Swansea Physics graduates have excelled in a wide range of careers, including roles as research physicists, data scientists, AI and software engineers, demand forecasters, patent examiners, and quantitative finance analysts. Our alumni network illustrates their involvement across many sectors, such as government research, aerospace, defence, energy, nuclear, engineering, the private sector, education, and space exploration. We take pride in the strong connections they maintain with the department and are delighted to showcase their career advancements to our current students.
A significant percentage of our graduates go on to pursue a postgraduate degree and/or research with a wide variety of specialisations.
Entry requirements
Contact Swansea University to find course entry requirements.
Why study at Swansea University
There are many reasons to choose Swansea University for your studies; from the stunning beachfront locations of our Singleton Park and Bay campuses, to our global reputation for research and academic excellence, we offer a safe, supportive and fun environment to live and study, and our vast range of courses and subject areas mean you are sure to find the future career for you.
- Top 30 UK research-led university (Research Excellence Framework 2014-2021)
- Ranked within the Top 300 of universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2025)
- Voted 6th safest city in England and Wales (Complete University Guide 2024)
- UK Top 10 of the People and Planet University League (Times Good University Guide 2025)
Whether you join us for your undergraduate degree, postgraduate studies or research, you’ll receive a modern approach to learning, backed by cutting-edge facilities and an excellent research and teaching faculty.
Join Swansea and start your journey, studying in a picturesque, student-friendly city by the sea with so much to offer.