Ranking
4th
Times and Sunday Times 2026
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Course overview
Explore the mathematics of the natural world with MSci Theoretical Physics and Applied Mathematics. Blend your interest in maths and physics on our joint honours integrated Masters level programme and open up a range of career opportunities.
Learn how to use mathematical techniques and analysis to advance our understanding of the universe. Join us and investigate complex theoretical concepts as you build your problem-solving, programming, teamwork and experimental skills.
Accredited programme
This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics. The summary reads: 'This is a major and important physics department residing in one of the UK's premier universities. It is highly organised, well-run and benefits from a dedicated set of academic staff. Physics is presented through well-planned degree programmes, supported by a range of excellent facilities'.
Why study Physics and Astronomy at Birmingham?
The MSci Theoretical Physics and Applied Mathematics course is an amazing opportunity for students who want to study topics in both physics and maths from lecturers who are genuinely passionate about their research.
Course structure
Join our four year full time MSci Theoretical Physics and Applied Mathematics comprising of taught and optional modules. Each module will be assessed in a number of ways, including exams, class tests, problem sheets, lab assignments and project reports.
Year 1
Year 1
You will get an overview of core physics and maths principles, going over both content you'll have encountered before at school and content you've never seen before, covering quantum mechanics, classical mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical physics, linear algebra, and chaos.
Year 2
Year 2
More advanced maths and physics principles are taught in the second year, building upon the knowledge obtained during year 1, Modules include eigenphysics, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics and vector analysis.
Year 3
Year 3
In your third year, core modules include Complex Variable Theory, Statistical Physics and Quantum Mechanics.
There is also the choice of up to six optional modules, including topics such as metric spaces and topology, astrophysics and nuclear physics.
Year 4
Year 4
In your fourth year, there are fourty credits related to your final year project - you are then able to choose up to eight modules from an extensive list of options based on your interests and preferences such as Quantum Field Theory and Mathematical Finance.
A large part of the year involves undertaking a theoretical physics or mathematics based research project supervised by an academic from either the School of Mathematics, or School of Physics.
Course highlights
- 4th
in the UK for Physics & Astronomy
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026.
- 5th
in the UK for Physics & Astronomy
The Guardian University Guide 2026.
- 6th
in the UK for Physics & Astronomy
Complete University Guide 2026
National Student Survey
We are committed to providing the high-quality teaching, learning and support. Our most recent NSS (2025) has us ranked 2nd in the Russell Group for Theme 1 ‘Teaching on my course’.
Develop your core knowledge of modern physics and maths with studies in quantum mechanics and mathematical applications. You'll learn from experts in the Schools of Mathematics and Physics and Astronomy.
Choose whether you want to include experimental lab work and you’ll have options for specialist topics such as nuclear physics, exoplanets and applied mathematical analysis.
During your final year you’ll apply your knowledge to an individual project, developing high-level research skills and deepen your understanding with advanced modules.
Our research spaces include our own particle accelerator, our MC40 cyclotron and labs used for the construction of the detectors and electronics in experiments at the Large Hadron Collider, CERN.
As a Birmingham Physics graduate, you'll have a broad range of options for the future either working directly in a scientific environment or using transferable skills in different roles.
- Benefit from state-of-the-art teaching and research spaces - including our very own particle accelerator
- Invest in your future, with employability embedded through the course
- Learn in a friendly and supportive academic environment
- Enjoy the flexibility to study modules from across the range of Physics and Maths disciplines
- Take part in theoretical physics projects with supervision from our academic theorists
- Take part in group projects, developing teamwork, planning and problem solving skills
- Develop a deeper understanding of the maths that underpins the laws of physics
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Course delivery
Our teaching at Birmingham is research-led, meaning the content is written and performed by experts in their respective fields, so a contemporary view of physics today is taught. With many optional modules available, you can tailor their degree and learning experience to match your interests.
Lecture
Tutorial
Projects
Seminar
- Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields
- Take part in tutorials that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning
- Develop a spectrum of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, time management, and communication through project work
- Gain valuable experience by engaging in practical assignments that simulate real-world tasks and cultivate job-ready skills
You can benefit from our incredible facilities, including state-of-the-art study spaces, computing suites and laboratories. Our research spaces includes our own particle accelerator, our MC40 cyclotron, and labs used for the construction of the detectors and electronics used in the experiments at the Large Hadron Collider, CERN.
Assessment
Work alongside renowned academics who are pushing the frontiers of scientific knowledge. Our researchers will teach your lectures, lead your labs, act as your personal tutors and supervise your projects.
Modules are assessed in a variety of ways: exams, class tests, problem sheets, lab assignments and project reports.
There is a strong emphasis on project work in the final year of your degree course. Lab work is assessed continuously throughout the term.
Module information
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
Each year contains 120 credits of taught material and laboratory studies, delivered in modules that are typically worth 10 or 20 credits.
Year 1
Year 1
2026/27
Year 2
Year 2
2027/28
Year 3
Year 3
2028/29
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Complex Variable Theory | 10 |
| Continuum Mechanics | 20 |
| Quantum Mechanics 3 | 10 |
| Radiation and Relativity | 10 |
| Statistical Physics | 10 |
Optional modules
Select 60 credits of options from the examples below, (20 credits in semester 1 and 40 credits in semester 2).
Year 4
Year 4
2029/30
Core modules
Choose either the two Physics project modules or the Applied Mathematics project below:
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Project Proposal and Dissertation (Theoretical Physics) | 20 |
| Project Seminar and Viva (Theoretical Physics) | 20 |
| Project in Applied Mathematics | 40 |
Optional modules
Select 80 credits of options. Examples of optional modules below.
Entry requirements
To secure a place at Birmingham, you'll need to meet our general entry requirements as well as those specific to your course.
- A Level
A*A*A /A*AAA. Details below.
- IB
7,7,6 at HL, to include Mathematics and Physics, with a minimum of 32 points overall. 7 must be in Mathematics and Physics.
- BTEC
options considered when combined with other Maths and Physics qualifications.
Number of A-levels required: 3.
Required subjects and grades:
- A*A*A with A* Maths, A* Physics
- Or; A*A*A with A* Maths + A*/A Physics + A*/A Further Maths
- Or; A*AAA with A* Maths and A Physics
General Studies not accepted.
Foundation Year
Would you like to study this course but lack the entry qualifications? If you are not studying A-level Mathematics, you can consider a Foundation Year programme which can lead to entry onto one of our courses. Learn more:
- UK students (not eligible if studying A-level Mathematics)
- international students
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Applicants who take the EPQ and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
- TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking and 19 in Writing.
- IELTS*: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any band.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): PTE 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills.
- Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015)***: C1 Advanced - Minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component.
- Language Cert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 ‘Communicator’ with no less than 25 in each skill.
- Trinity ISE II: Distinction all skills.
- Trinity ISE III: Pass in each Skill
Presessional English courses
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September, including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Am I likely to receive an offer for 2026?
Stay up-to-date with news and updates from the University of Birmingham including events, our courses and studying with us by registering your details. If you do so, you will be able to use our Offer Calculator.
Alternative Offers
Students who are eligible and complete a Pathways to Birmingham programme will receive an alternative offer, which is typically two grades below the standard offer.
Our Contextual Offer scheme
Our Contextual Offer scheme recognises the potential of students whose personal circumstances may have restricted achievement in school or college. If you are eligible to benefit from the Contextual Offer scheme, you will receive an offer which is one grade lower than the standard offer. You don’t need to apply for this – it will be assessed and applied at the point of application if you’re eligible.
- Pathways to Birmingham
A*A*C to include A*A* in Maths and Physics OR A*A*C including A* in Maths and A*C in Physics & Further Maths
- Contextual Offer
A*A*B to include A*A* in Maths and Physics OR A*A*B including A* in Maths and A*B in Physics & Further Maths
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation, and includes membership of the Guild of Students.
- £9,535*
per year for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27
*The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If Parliament agrees on an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study, normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to you without delay. The fee for September 2025 entry was £9,535 for UK students. If you are applying for 2026 entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee once it is confirmed by the Government.
Undergraduate loans
To help with the cost of studies, undergraduate students from the UK can apply for student finance through the Student Loans Company. The support available is made up of a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan which helps to cover living costs.
Scholarships, grants and bursaries
At Birmingham, we believe that financial worries should not be a barrier to accessing higher education. That’s why we offer a range of additional financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and other awards.
Financial support for Home students
If you're a UK student and starting university in September 2026, find out more about what financial support is available to you.
Financial support for International students
We want to help you reach your full potential. Explore our wide variety of scholarships available for international students.
Application process
Whatever your journey to university looks like, we’re here to support you every step of the way. For all undergraduate courses at Birmingham, you apply online through UCAS. The UCAS website has lots of information and advice around the process.
Apply
The UCAS code for this course is F3DG.
View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.
- 14 January 2026
Application deadline for September 2026 entry. Applications close at 18:00 GMT.
Career opportunities
As a graduate in Physics, your choice of career remains wide open. You may go on to apply your physics knowledge directly in a scientific environment, or you might be employed in a high-profile job for your problem-solving and computational skills, in the worlds of finance and information technology.
Our Physics graduates are making an impact across a wide range of sectors such as Information Technology, Education Management, Management Consultancy and Financial Services. They have gone on to work for leading employers such as National Grid, KEL Computing, Frazer-Nash Consultancy, Hedron Network and Magnox Ltd.
40% of our students go on to further study after graduating, with around two thirds of those being research leading to a PhD.
Prepare for diverse careers, including Scientific Researcher, Medical Physicist, Energy Consultant, Meteorologist, Statistician and Business consultant, Software Developer, Financial Modeller.
Meet Deepali Lodhia - Graduate story
Deepali studied MSci Physics with Astrophysics as well as a PhD in Astrophysics: Gravitational Wave Detection, and now works as a Senior Education and Future Workforce Manager for Space Exploration for the UK Space Agency
Careers Network
Our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offer support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.
Hear from some of our inspiring alumni who have gone on to work for leading employers such as the UK Space Agency and BBC Sport.
Upcoming events
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Student experience
Your experience studying at Birmingham will give you the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community, and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. In our student accommodation, you can enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
Our cosmopolitan city has a unique history and so much to see and do. With an ever-changing food and drink scene, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of culture, our city is more than somewhere to study.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus.
Campus life
Our beautiful campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn and socialise. Like a town of its own, it’s just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Flexible programmes to suit you
Not sure what you want to study?
Explore your options for combining subjects and shape your degree around your interests, whilst developing key skills for the world of work.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.
Student stories
Find new perspectives. Hear first-hand about life at Birmingham from our students, past and present.