(Full time) 2020 start
Theoretical Physics Degree
Overview
Physics is the most fundamental of all sciences. It observes and explores the physical laws and principles that govern the nature of the universe and is stimulating and inspiring.
We‘re top ten in the UK for Physics and Astronomy, according to The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019.
On this course, you’ll develop thorough knowledge and understanding of the theoretical basis of modern physics, with a particular focus on the mathematical aspects. You can explore advanced topics in physics that relate to our research strengths – from cosmology to quantum information. You’ll develop a solid grounding in how mathematical methods are applied to physics topics.
You’ll have several opportunities to get involved in real research, such as: during the group industrial project module, and your final year research project. We offer all students the chance to apply to do a summer research placement, where you’ll work with our researchers and be paid a salary. As well as advancing you as a physicist, these opportunities allow you to develop transferable skills that can help you achieve your aspirations.
It is possible to transfer to the 4-year integrated Masters (MPhys, BSc) course from this three-year Bachelor’s (BSc) degree up until the end of your second year, subject to suitable academic performance at that stage.
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Accreditation
This course is professionally accredited by the Institute of Physics, meaning the topics you’ll study reflect the latest developments in physics. By studying an accredited course, you'll gain the skills you’ll need to succeed in industry upon graduation.
Course content
Throughout the first two years of your degree, you’ll study core physics topics, including quantum physics, relativity, and solid state physics. Alongside this, you will explore mathematics topics such as differentiation and integration, vector calculus, and matrices.
You’ll also have the option to take modules offered by our research groups, such as astrophysics or nanophysics, or even discovery modules from other departments. We expect you to gain an understanding of basic laboratory skills in year one so that you can gain a better sense of how experimentation and theory work together in physics.
From third year onwards, you can choose advanced options from a wide range of modules in both physics and mathematics. In your final year, you will choose either to extend your understanding of current theoretical physics by carrying out a critical literature review or to gain experience of actual research by undertaking a project. The literature review can deal with cutting-edge topics such as string theory or quantum computing. The research project could be related to the School’s research interests in theoretical physics, such as liquid state physics, gauge fields, knots and polymers, biological membranes and quantum information.
When you finish this degree, you’ll have a sound knowledge and understanding of the core observations, concepts and quantitative theoretical structures that constitute our contemporary understanding of the physical world, as well as an enhanced interpersonal skillset of problem solving, independent learning, verbal and written communication and presentation skills, all of which will help you to progress into your desired career path.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.
Modules
Year 1
Compulsory modules
- Introductory Linear Algebra 10 credits
- Physics Laboratory 1- Introduction to Experimental Physics (A) 10 credits
- Physics Laboratory 2- Introduction to Experimental Physics (B) 10 credits
- Physics 1- Fundamental Forces 25 credits
- Physics 2- Properties of Matter 25 credits
- Computing 1- Fundamentals of Programming 10 credits
- Maths 1- Scalars and Vectors 10 credits
- Maths 2- Multivariable Calculus 10 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Introduction to Medical Imaging 10 credits
- Stars and Galaxies 10 credits
- Planets and the Search for Life 10 credits
- Introduction to Nanotechnology 10 credits
- Atmosphere 10 credits
- Weather 10 credits
- Water 10 credits
Year 2
Compulsory modules
- Communicating Physics 5 credits
- Physics 3- Fields and Energy 25 credits
- Physics 4- Quantum and Nuclear Physics 25 credits
- Maths 3- Matrices and Operators 10 credits
- Maths 4- Transforms and Partial Differential Equations 10 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Science Education: Issues and Challenges 10 credits
- Groups and Vector Spaces 15 credits
- Rings and Polynomials 10 credits
- Geometry of Curves and Surfaces 10 credits
- Further Linear Algebra 10 credits
- Nonlinear Differential Equations 10 credits
- Fluid Dynamics 1 10 credits
- Calculus of Variations 10 credits
- Medical Imaging and Cancer 10 credits
- High Energy Astrophysics 10 credits
- Stellar Structure and Evolution 10 credits
- Computing 2- Computational Physics 10 credits
- Nanophysics and Small Systems 10 credits
- Meteorology 10 credits
- Atmosphere and Ocean Dynamics 10 credits
- Atmospheric Physics 10 credits
Year 3
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Understanding and Communicating Science 10 credits
- Logic 10 credits
- History of Mathematics 15 credits
- Groups and Symmetry 15 credits
- Differential Geometry 15 credits
- Coding Theory 15 credits
- Commutative Rings and Algebraic Geometry 15 credits
- Topology 15 credits
- Transformation Geometry 15 credits
- Hamiltonian Systems 15 credits
- Mathematical Methods 15 credits
- Linear and Non-Linear Waves 15 credits
- Quantum Mechanics 15 credits
- Nonlinear Dynamics 15 credits
- Analytic Solutions of Partial Differential Equations 15 credits
- Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 15 credits
- Modern Numerical Methods 15 credits
- Relativity and Cosmology 15 credits
- Evolutionary Modelling 15 credits
- Fluid Dynamics 2 15 credits
- Cardiovascular Medical Imaging 10 credits
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging 10 credits
- Ultrasound Imaging 10 credits
- Radionuclide Imaging 10 credits
- Medical X-ray imaging 10 credits
- X-ray Computed Tomography 10 credits
- Introduction to Philosophy of Modern Physics 10 credits
- Cosmology 15 credits
- Photonics 15 credits
- Group Industrial Project 15 credits
- Molecular Simulation: Theory and Practice 15 credits
- Star and Planet Formation 15 credits
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics 15 credits
- Quantum Photonics 15 credits
- Quantum Matter 15 credits
- Magnetism in Condensed Matter 15 credits
- Statistical Mechanics 15 credits
- Professional Skills in Physics 5 credits
- Advanced Mechanics 15 credits
- Bionanophysics 1 15 credits
- Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics 15 credits
- Physics in Schools 15 credits
- Dynamics of Weather Systems 10 credits
- Earth Observations from Space 10 credits
- Atmosphere and Ocean Climate Change Processes 10 credits
- Oceanography in the Earth System 10 credits
Year 4
Compulsory modules
- Research Project 60 credits
Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
- Linear Analysis 1 20 credits
- Advanced Differential Geometry 20 credits
- Advanced Hamiltonian Systems 20 credits
- Advanced Mathematical Methods 20 credits
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics 20 credits
- Advanced Nonlinear Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics 20 credits
- Advanced Evolutionary Modelling 20 credits
- Soft Matter Physics: Liquid Crystals 15 credits
- Quantum Many-Body Physics 15 credits
- Winds, Bubbles and Explosions 15 credits
- Bionanophysics 2: Advanced Bionanophysics Research 15 credits
- Advanced Group Industrial Project 15 credits
- Superconductivity 15 credits
- Soft Matter Physics: Polymers, Colloids and Glasses 15 credits
- Quantum Transport in Nanostructures 15 credits
- Quantum Field Theory 15 credits
- General Relativity 15 credits
- Quantum Information Science and Technology 15 credits
- Current Research Topics in Physics 15 credits
- Advanced Physics in Schools 15 credits
- Physics of Biological Systems 15 credits
Broadening your academic horizons
At Leeds we want you to benefit from the depth and breadth of the University's expertise, to prepare you for success in an ever-changing and challenging world. This course gives you the opportunity to broaden your learning by studying discovery modules. Find out more on the Broadening webpages.
Learning and teaching
You will be taught through several different teaching methods, including lectures, workshops, small-group tutorials, laboratory work, project work and computer-aided learning.
In the first two years, the material you learn in lectures is supported by a mixture of small group tutorials and larger weekly workshops, where lecturers work with a team to improve your practical problem-solving skills. In later years, the lecturer will usually support their own specialist material through bi-weekly workshops.
Laboratory classes are an integral part of our teaching throughout your time at Leeds. They provide you with the opportunity to develop your verbal and written communication skills through performing experiments individually, or as part of a group. You may also have the opportunity to undertake a short course on data analysis and statistics and learn how to conduct practical experiments in preparation for your final year research project.
All students are assigned a personal tutor. Your personal tutor is there to offer advice, monitor your progress, and be your first point of contact during your undergraduate years.
There are many facilities that will support your studies including extensive computer clusters. The School itself provides additional computing and study areas.
The Edward Boyle Science and Engineering Library is only a short walk from the School of Physics and Astronomy and has multiple copies of the recommended books. It also has a variety of different studying environments, such as personal and flexible group work areas.
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
You are assessed primarily through formal exams. Other methods include practical work, oral presentations, written reports and tutorial work. The variety of assessment allows you to develop a broad range of skills and demonstrate a variety of talents.
Details on the types of assessment used for each module can be found on the University Module Catalogue.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: AAA including Physics and Mathematics.
Excludes A Level General Studies or Critical Thinking.
Where an A Level science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A Level at the stated grade.
GCSE: C in English Language, or an equivalent English qualification.
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Access to HE Diploma
Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3. 30 level 3 credits must be in Physics and Mathematics and must be passed with Distinction.
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BTEC
BTEC qualifications in relevant disciplines are considered in combination with other qualifications, including A Level Physics and Mathematics.
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Cambridge Pre-U
D3 D3 M2 including Physics and Mathematics.
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International Baccalaureate
35 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level to include 6 in Higher Level Physics and 6 in Higher Level Mathematics.
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Irish Highers (Leaving Certificate)
H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 at Higher Level including Mathematics and Physics.
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
AAA including Physics and Mathematics at Advanced Higher Level.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is an alternative admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative admissions.
If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any one component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. The institution code for the University of Leeds is L23. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK/EU students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
The UK Government’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) operates a scheme called the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS). If you are an international (non-EU/EEA or Swiss citizen) applicant and require a student visa to study in the UK then you will need an ATAS certificate to study this course at the University of Leeds.
To apply for an ATAS certificate online, you will need your programme details and the relevant Common Aggregation Hierarchy (CAH) code and descriptor. For this course, the CAH code is: CAH07-01-01 and the descriptor is: Physics.
More information and details on how to apply for your ATAS certificate can be found at GOV.UK.
Applicant days
Suitable applicants will be invited to an applicant day as this gives you the opportunity to meet our staff and students, explore the School and University and find out more about your course.
During the day you’ll have an informal interview with an academic member of staff, to check that it’s the right course for you and your career plans, have your questions answered and find out more about studying at Leeds.
After you apply we will send you a link to book your place on the applicant day, if you are unable to attend and have previously attended an admissions event at Leeds then please let us know.
If you have non-standard qualifications, or when there is no evidence of recent study of mathematics or physics, a 30-minute interview and/or a 90-minute test covering the A-Level syllabus may be part of the selection procedure. This is to ensure that the course is suitable for you and that your current studies have prepared you for the curriculum at Leeds.
If you are unable to attend, a telephone or Skype interview may be arranged. For further information, read our admissions policy.
Admissions policy
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Policy
Fees
UK/EU: See fees section below
International: £23,750 (per year)
Undergraduate tuition fees for 2020 entry
For UK and non-UK EU full-time students starting in 2020, the fee for 2020/21 will be £9,250.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law. Fees for UK and non-UK EU undergraduate students are decided by Government and may vary if policy changes.
The UK government has confirmed that non-UK EU students starting in the 2020/21 academic year will have home fee status and be eligible for UK government student loans for the duration of their course. The UK government has not confirmed the situation for future years, so keep checking our website for updates.
UK undergraduate tuition fees for 2021 entry
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2021/22 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. In other years, the government has confirmed fee levels in summer. When the fee is confirmed, we will publish an update on this website.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
Brexit
Visit our Brexit page for the latest information on the effect of the UK's exit from the EU on current students and applicants to the University.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
The School of Physics and Astronomy offers a range of scholarships for Home, EU and International students.
Scholarships for 2020 entry are available here.
Career opportunities
Physics graduates are in demand for some of the highest paid and most satisfying roles in employment.
The numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills you will develop and your specialist subject knowledge are highly valued across sectors including aerospace, electronics, energy, environment, and transport. This course also allows you to develop the transferable skills that employers seek.
This course offers you the opportunity to spend a year working in industry or studying at a university abroad, both of which provide valuable experience and help your personal development. Both of these schemes add an additional year to your course, taking the total course length to 4 years.
One of the key features of this course is the final year research project, which is an opportunity to work with one of our internationally recognised research groups. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your independent research skills and teamwork abilities; it will prepare you for a career in research in both academia and industry.
Almost a third of our students progress onto PhD study or other postgraduate qualifications. For further information on career paths and employability please see our careers pages. To learn about the careers of School of Physics and Astronomy alumni, see their profiles.
Careers support
Throughout your degree, we make sure that you have the support and opportunity to develop the skills and experience you’ll need to make the most of your career choices.
Our industrial placement scheme helps you gain valuable work experience that can help you stand out from the crowd. You could also secure a part-time job that you can feature on your CV through the Students’ Union's Joblink.
We teach problem-solving and high level thinking at all stages of your degree. Our degrees allow you to develop the core subject knowledge and skills that you need to progress to a career – in whichever area of Physics you choose. We enable you to get involved with real physics research.
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.
Find out more at the Study Abroad website.
Our study abroad scheme allows you to experience another culture and develop life skills, which many employers value. The students’ union also provides volunteering opportunities which can help you in your personal development.
Spending a year living and studying in another country is a unique experience. Unlike the passing tourist, you have the chance to totally immerse yourself in another culture. You will gain unforgettable experiences and memories that you will draw upon in your working and personal life for years to come.
In addition to this, the proven ability to live and work in an international context is an asset that many employers actively seek.
On this course, taking a year abroad adds an additional year to your studies. During your year abroad, you will study physics at your host institution.
Work placements
Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.
An industrial placement will boost your self-confidence, not only in your chosen subject area, but in the marketplace generally.
The industrial placement (‘Year in Industry’) scheme gives you the opportunity to experience salaried work before you graduate. Employers actively seek graduates who already have work experience and it can make all the difference in interviews. On this course, your industrial placement adds an additional year to your studies.
In addition, the opportunity to work every day with scientists who are experts in their field is an incredible opportunity to enhance your knowledge of physics.
You will be able to choose from a range of physics-related organisations in which to work. In previous years, students have worked at many prestigious companies, including:
- IBM
- KPMG
- Q8
- Unilever
- Siemens
- GSK (medical imaging)
- Virgin Media
- Analox
During your industrial placement, you will have an industrial supervisor from within the company, plus an academic supervisor who will keep in touch throughout your placement.
If you are not sure right now whether or not an industrial placement is right for you, don't worry - you will not have to start applying for placements until the beginning of your second year.
Research placements
Our students have the ability to apply for competitive funded Summer Scholarships at the end of year 2, which will provide 8 weeks paid employment actively pursuing research in Physics.