About this course
Mathematics is the fundamental language of physics and underpins the theories that explain our universe. With this master's degree, you’ll develop a profound understanding of the subject and learn how to apply it to solve problems.
The MPhys Physics with Mathematics degree combines robust training in experimental and theoretical physics with in-depth study in related fields of mathematics.
Optional modules enable you to go deeper into areas of mathematics and physics that interest you, such as quantum physics, gravitational waves, general relativity and black holes.
You’ll also master high-level analytical, modelling and computing techniques. This will open up a huge range of career options, or prepare you for continued research with a PhD.
The degree is delivered in partnership with Southampton’s highly regarded Mathematical Sciences department.
Your lecturers will include academics from the cross-disciplinary Southampton Theory Astrophysics and Gravity (STAG) Research Centre, who are involved in world-leading research in fields where mathematics and physics meet, such as particle physics and cosmology.
High-performing students are eligible to apply to one of our flagship programmes. These are not available for direct entry, but you may apply for them at the end of the second year.
Physics offers an academic scholarship worth up to £20,000, based on submission of a short essay and an interview at one of our applicant visit days.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Learn more about these subject areas
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202526
A-levels
A*AA-AAA including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
AABB-AABC including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
A-levels additional information
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed.
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Applicants who have not studied mathematics/further mathematics and/or physics at A-level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to three A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAA including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A), plus grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 38-36 points overall, with 19-18 points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in mathematics (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation) and 6 at Higher Level in physics
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
Applicants who have not studied mathematics and/or physics at Higher Level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D*-D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grades AA-A*A in A-level physics and A-level mathematics or further mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC National Diploma if it has been studied alongside A-levels in mathematics/further mathematics and physics.
We will consider the BTEC National Extended Diploma if it has been studied alongside A-levels in mathematics/further mathematics and physics.
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
QCF BTEC
D*-D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades AA-A*A in A-level physics and A-level mathematics or further mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC Extended Diploma if it has been studied alongside A-levels in mathematics/further mathematics and physics.
We will consider the BTEC Diploma if it has been studied alongside A-levels in mathematics/further mathematics and physics.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1,H1,H1,H2,H2,H2- H1,H1,H2,H2,H2,H2 including mathematics, applied mathematics and physics
Irish certificate additional information
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer. Applicants who have not studied mathematics and/or physics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D2 D3 D3 - D3 D3 D3 in three Principal subjects including physics (minimum grade D3) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade D3)
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A Level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of A Level grade B.
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
Applicants who have not studied the required Principal subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Welsh Baccalaureate
A*AA-AAA including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
A*A-AA from two A-levels including physics and either mathematics or further mathematics and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
or
AAAB-AABB including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
AA from two A-levels including physics and either mathematics or further mathematics, plus grades AB-BB from a third A-level and the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed.
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Applicants who have not studied mathematics/further mathematics and/or physics at A-level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
T-Level
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with a T level Technical Qualification in a relevant subject can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
- our Ignite your Journey scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
- skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
For Academic year 202425
A-levels
A*AA-AAA including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
AABB-AABC including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
A-levels additional information
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed.
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Applicants who have not studied mathematics/further mathematics and/or physics at A-level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to three A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: AAA including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A), plus grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: AAA or AABC including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 38-36 points overall, with 19-18 points required at Higher Level, including 6 at Higher Level in mathematics (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation) and 6 at Higher Level in physics
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
Applicants who have not studied mathematics and/or physics at Higher Level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D*-D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grades AA-A*A in A-level physics and A-level mathematics or further mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC National Diploma if it has been studied alongside A-levels in mathematics/further mathematics and physics.
We will consider the BTEC National Extended Diploma if it has been studied alongside A-levels in mathematics/further mathematics and physics.
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Applicants who have not studied the required subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
QCF BTEC
D*-D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus grades AA-A*A in A-level physics and A-level mathematics or further mathematics.
We will consider the BTEC Extended Diploma if it has been studied alongside A-levels in mathematics/further mathematics and physics.
We will consider the BTEC Diploma if it has been studied alongside A-levels in mathematics/further mathematics and physics.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with an Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject should apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1,H1,H1,H2,H2,H2- H1,H1,H2,H2,H2,H2 including mathematics, applied mathematics and physics
Irish certificate additional information
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer. Applicants who have not studied mathematics and/or physics can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D2 D3 D3 - D3 D3 D3 in three Principal subjects including physics (minimum grade D3) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade D3)
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A Level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of A Level grade B.
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
Applicants who have not studied the required Principal subjects can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Welsh Baccalaureate
A*AA-AAA including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
A*A-AA from two A-levels including physics and either mathematics or further mathematics and A from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
or
AAAB-AABB including physics (minimum grade A) and either mathematics or further mathematics (minimum grade A)
or
AA from two A-levels including physics and either mathematics or further mathematics, plus grades AB-BB from a third A-level and the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Successful applicants will be invited to visit the department and attend an optional interview. The optional interview may lead to a lower offer.
A pass in the science Practical is required where it is separately endorsed.
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Applicants who have not studied mathematics/further mathematics and/or physics at A-level can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
T-Level
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with a T level Technical Qualification in a relevant subject can apply for the Engineering/Physics/Mathematics Foundation Year
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
- our Ignite your Journey scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
- skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This programme will provide a mix of core and compulsory modules in both maths and physics and optional modules allowing you to customise your course to suit your needs and interests.
Our flexible programme structure makes it possible to switch to the MPhys Physics or BSc Physics degree up until the end of year 2, provided you have taken the required optional modules.
It may also be possible to change to one of the other specialist programmes, if you’ve taken the required modules.
Year 1 overview
You'll take a number of core topics such as:
- mathematical methods for physical scientists
- linear algebra
- energy and matter
- motion and relativity
- electricity and magnetism
- physics skills
Year 2 overview
You'll study core modules to build on your knowledge of both subjects.
These include study off:
- partial differential equations
- vector calculus and complex variable
- electromagnetism
- quantum physics
- classical mechanics
Year 3 overview
Along with modules in crystalline solids, mathematical methods and a core dissertation module, this year includes 1 optional module.
Depending on your interests, you can choose to enhance your skills in either experimental physics or computing.
Year 4 overview
This year‘s modules relate to problem-solving in physics, but you can choose up to 3 additional mathematics options. With these, you can deepen your knowledge of physics-related maths or explore how the subject is applied in areas such as finance, biology and business.
You can combine additional modules from your main subject with those from other disciplines, or choose from a selection of interdisciplinary modules.
In your final year you’ll take at least 1 Masters-level mathematics course to give you first-hand experience of the forefront of mathematics.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Electricity and Magnetism
The major concepts covered are: - The abstraction from forces to fields using the examples of the electric and magnetic fields, with some applications - The connection between conservative forces and potential energy - How charges move through electri...
Energy and Matter
This course introduces the ideas of thermal physics, contrasting the complexity of a world composed of huge numbers of sub-microscopic particles with the simplicity of the thermodynamic laws that govern its large-scale behaviour.
Linear Algebra for Physics
Linear algebra is the branch of mathematics focused on linear equations, their solutions, and many topics naturally connected to these, such as matrices, vector spaces, inner products, and more. Physicists use linear algebra to describe an enormous number...
Mathematical Methods For Physical Scientists 1b
To provide students with the necessary skills and confidence to apply a range of mathematical methods to problems in the physical sciences. We build on the methods developed in MATH1006 (or MATH1008) but extend many of the ideas from ordinary functions to...
Mathematical Methods for Physical Scientists 1a
To provide students with the necessary skills and confidence to apply a range of mathematical methods to problems in the physical sciences. Both MATH1006 and MATH1008 cover essentially the same topics in calculus that are of relevance to applications in t...
Motion and Relativity
The first part of the module focuses on Newton’s laws of motion, potentials, conservation of energy, momentum and angular momentum, projectiles, circular motion, gravity and simple harmonic motion including damping. The second part of the module is an ...
Physics Skills - Programming and Data Analysis
The primary goal is to provide students with the practical programming and data analysis skills that are necessary for both their degree course and most careers in physics. Python is used as the introductory programming language, and numerical simulations...
Physics Skills 1
The Physics Skills units develop a range of skills needed by a professional physicist, including facility in conducting experiments and in analysing and reporting their results. Physics Skills 1 runs in first semester and its companion Physics Skills 2 (P...
Physics Skills 2
The Physics Skills units develop a range of skills needed by a professional physicist, including facility in conducting experiments and in analysing and reporting their results. Physics Skills 1 runs in first semester and its companion Physics Skills 2 (P...
Waves, Light and Quanta
It will arm students with a basic knowledge of optics, including ray propagation, polarization and diffraction, and introduce the dual wave and particle characteristics of light and matter. It provides a base for further study of optics, wave physics and ...
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
Classical Mechanics
Beginning with a review of Newton's Laws applied to systems of particles, the course moves on to rotational motion, dynamical gravity (Kepler's Laws) and motion in non-inertial reference frames. Systems of coupled oscillators are studied.
Electromagnetism
Electromagnetism is one of the brilliant successes of nineteenth century physics and the equations formulated by Maxwell are believed to account exactly for all classical electromagnetic phenomena. The aim of this course is to present the laws of elect...
Partial Differential Equations
Differential equations occupy a central role in mathematics because they allow us to describe a wide variety of real-world systems. The module will aim to stress the importance of both theory and applications of differential equations. The module begin...
Physics from Evidence I
The PHYS2022 Physics from Evidence I module consists of three parts: Teaching Lab, Computing Module and Student Conference. The Teaching Lab and Computing Modules run through the first 10 weeks of the semester and the Student Conference is in week 12.
Quantum Physics
After studying this course students should be able to explain the concept of quantum mechanical wave function and its basic properties, the Schrödinger equation, the concepts of operator, eigenstates and the significance of measurements, and describe the ...
Statistical Mechanics
Statistical mechanics links the microscopic properties of physical systems to their macroscopic properties. Thermodynamics, which describes macroscopic properties, can then be derived from statistical mechanics with a few well motivated postulates. It lea...
Vector Calculus and Complex Variable
In the first part of this module we build on multivariate calculus studied in the first year and extend it to the calculus of scalar and vector functions of several variables. Line, surface and volume integrals are considered and a number of theorems inv...
Wave Physics
This course introduces the properties and mechanics of waves, from the derivation and solution of wave equations, through the origins of the classical processes of refraction, dispersion and interference, to the quantum mechanical phenomenon of the uncert...
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
Atomic Physics
The aim of this course is to apply quantum physics to the study of atoms.
Computer Techniques in Physics
This Computational Physics course is designed for students with definite interest in tackling physics problems that are only tractable through the use of computers. It covers all types of application of computers by physicists, except the control of equip...
Crystalline Solids
This course builds upon the Statistical Mechanics Course (PHYS2024) to form a complete basic course on the fundamentals of the physics of solids. After the course the student should have developed the necessary theoretical knowledge to enable them to unde...
Dissertation
The first part of the course is devoted to exploring a given topic via group work, assessed via short, written summary (extended abstract) and oral presentation. The second part consists of an individual dissertation that is assessed via a written report...
Nuclei and Particles
Students will learn about Nuclear Scattering, various properties of Nuclei, the Liquid Drop Model and the Shell Model, radioactive decay, fission and fusion. By the end of the course, the students should be able to classify elementary particles into hadro...
Numerical Methods
Introduce the students to the practical application of a relatively wide spectrum of numerical techniques and familiarise the students with numerical coding. Often in mathematics, it is possible to prove the existence of a solution to a given problem, ...
Physics from Evidence II
A wide variety of physics topics is covered, showing the experimental evidence underlying a number of topics in physics encountered in lecture courses and textbooks. Students are also introduced to techniques they might encounter in a physics-related care...
Relativity, Black Holes and Cosmology
This is a module principally on Einstein's general theory of relativity, a relativistic theory of gravitation which explains gravitational effects as coming from the curvature of space-time. It provides a comprehensive introduction to material which is cu...
Theories of Matter, Space and Time
Variational methods in classical physics will be reviewed and the extension of these ideas in quantum mechanics will be introduced.
Year 4 modules
You must study the following modules in year 4:
Advanced General Relativity
General relativity is the theory of spacetime and gravity developed by Einstein. This module aims to develop a geometric understanding of general relativity and explore advanced applications of GR. In particular, we will study the physics of black holes (...
MPhys Final Year Synoptic Examination
Students in the synoptic exam will be expected to display a broad knowledge and understanding of the core first, second and third year courses, to understand the inter-relations between those courses and to display problem solving skills in novel problem ...
MPhys Project
In this module, students undertake a research project which extends over both semesters of the final year. Students normally work in pairs, in close collaboration with a member of staff.
Modelling with Differential Equations
The emphasis of this module is on the methods required to develop mathematical models using differential equations to understand physical problems. The module involves both conventional lectures as well as discussion lectures. The discussion lectures comp...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 4:
Advanced Quantum Physics
This course will cover advanced topics of quantum mechanics including postulates of quantum mechanics, tools of quantum mechanics, Dirac notation, Simple Harmonic oscillator (studied using raising and lowering operators), orbital and spin angular momentum...
Cosmology
Modern cosmology is a fascinating and fast-developing field, with intense research activity fuelled by major discoveries made in the last decade. These have overturned our understanding of the Universe’s properties and established a new standard cosmologi...
Gravitational Waves
This module is designed for MMath and MPhys students in their fourth year, and builds directly upon MATH3006 Relativity, Blackholes and Cosmology. Gravitational waves are tiny ripples in space-time, first predicted by Einstein himself in 1916. These ...
Lasers
Lasers and photonic techniques are used in all branches of science and technology. The principles of laser operation will be discussed, with reference to commonly used laser systems. The course provides knowledge of the laser as a fundamental tool of cont...
Light and Matter
The course provides an introduction to modern optical physics to arm students with a basic knowledge of light-matter interactions, electro-optics and nonlinear optics. It aims to provide a fundamental base for understanding the techniques and technologies...
Photons in Astrophysics
The main radiation mechanisms dominating astrophysical processes are discussed and examples are given of the situations in which they are most important. We show how the physical conditions, e.g. the temperature, density and magnetic field strength, can b...
Physics of the Early Universe
Since the end of the 1990s, cosmology has experienced one of the most impressive advances among all scientific disciplines. This happened mainly because of astonishing progress in the precision and accuracy of astronomical and cosmological observations ...
Physics of the Upper Atmosphere
The upper atmosphere consists of the outermost layers of Earth's atmosphere, above about 90 km altitude, on the edge of space. It is a very different place to the atmosphere we live in at ground level; temperatures reach extremes of cold (< 200 K) and ext...
Quantum Information
Quantum information combines information science with quantum effects in physics to study of how to process and transmit information using quantum systems. This includes quantum computation, quantum teleportation and quantum cryptography. Quantum metrol...
Quantum Optics
While coherence phenomena have long been familiar in the context of light waves, their manifestation in the context of matter waves is an exciting development of modern quantum science. This course aims to introduce the basic concepts needed to understand...
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- design and problem-solving exercises
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Stephen King is the course leader.
Careers
A physics degree and advanced mathematical skills open up a wide range of career options. Your problem-solving, computing and communication skills will impress recruiters.
Many graduates from this programme continue their research at PhD level or work in the private and public sectors, including: government, defence, finance, business, and industry.
You’ll also be prepared for roles in industrial research, financial markets, and many other sectors that rely on statistical analysis or cryptography expertise.
Roles our graduates have gone on to include:
- astrophysicist
- acoustician
- bioinformatics specialist
- data analyst
- government science policy officer
- medical physicist
- satellite engineer
- science communicator
- systems analyst
- web developer
If you decide on a job outside physics, you’ll find a number of other careers using maths and physics skills. You'll be able to demonstrate transferable skills such as computation and coding, statistical analysis, communication and project management.
We work hard to help you get the career of your choice and make the process easier and more enjoyable.
During year 2 you’ll have access to a programme of career sessions, timetabled to fit in with your studies. These include application and interview workshops and talks from visiting professionals.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV and interview skills and workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
We can help you find a paid summer placement to give you valuable hands-on experience and the chance to make industry contacts.
You’ll have the opportunity to take a Year in Employment which is a paid work placement between your second and third year.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £29,400.
The Government has recently announced changes to UK tuition fees from September 2025 onwards. We will update our website to reflect this shortly.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and standard exams.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Hub offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
If you’re successful, we’ll invite you to an optional applicant visit day. This will give the opportunity to learn more about the department and take an interview, which may lead to a lower offer. If you attend a visit day before Christmas, you can take the physics academic scholarship exam.
We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Related courses
Physics with Mathematics (MPhys) is a course in the Physics and astronomy and Mathematical sciences subject areas. Here are some other courses within these subject areas:
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PhDs and research degrees
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Find a PhD project
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- The oceanic fingerprints on changing monsoons over South and Southeast Asia
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- Uncovering the drivers of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease progression using patient derived organoids
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- Funding your research degree
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