Program Overview

Theoretical Physics BSc

The Theoretical Physics BSc programme is a three-year course offered at University College London (UCL). This programme provides a variant of the advanced study offered in the Physics BSc, with a focus on the theoretical structure of core topics in physics.

Programme Details

• Location: London, Bloomsbury
• Study Mode: Full-time
• Duration: 3 academic years
• UK Tuition Fees (2025/26): ｣9,535
• Overseas Tuition Fees (2025/26): ｣39,800
• Programme Start: September 2025
• Application Deadline: 29 January 2025
• UCAS Course Code: F340

Entry Requirements

A Levels

• Grades: A*AA
• Subjects: A*A in Mathematics and Physics required (in any order)
• GCSEs: English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4

IB Diploma

• Points: 39
• Subjects: A total of 19 points in three higher level subjects including grade 7, 6 in Mathematics and Physics, in any order, with no higher level score below 5
• The programme will accept either 'Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches' or 'Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation' at higher level

Contextual Offer

• Points: 36
• Subjects: A total of 17 points in three higher level subjects including grade 7, 6 in Mathematics and Physics, in any order, with no higher level score below 5
• The programme will accept either 'Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches' or 'Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation' at higher level

UK Applicants Qualifications

For entry requirements with other UK qualifications accepted by UCL, the following are considered:

• Access to HE Diploma: Not acceptable for entrance to this programme
• BTEC National Diploma: Not acceptable for entrance to this programme
• Cambridge Pre-U: D2, D3, D3 in three Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects, including D2, D3 in Mathematics and Physics (in any order)
• Scottish Advanced Highers: A1, A, A at Advanced Highers (or A1, A at Advanced Higher and AAA at Higher), including A1, A in Mathematics and Physics at Advanced Higher (in any order)
• T Levels: Not acceptable for entrance to this programme
• UAL Extended Diploma: Not acceptable for entrance to this programme
• Welsh Baccalaureate: Successful completion of the WBQ Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate plus 2 GCE A levels at grades AAA, including AA in Mathematics and Physics (in any order)

International Applications

Country-specific information can be obtained from the International Students website.

Course Overview

The programme includes compulsory modules in the first year that provide a firm foundation in quantum and classical physics, underpinned by mathematics and a practical skills module which includes computing skills training. The second year includes compulsory modules in quantum physics and its application to atoms and molecules, in statistical thermodynamics, and in electromagnetic theory, along with further mathematics. The quantum and condensed matter elements of the core are completed in the third year, which also includes optional modules to develop further and enhance knowledge of a range of physics topics.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching is delivered through lectures, laboratory practical sessions, and supervised problem-solving tutorials. These tutorials are designed to deal with lecture-based questions, enlarge on topics addressed in lectures, and allow clarification and in-depth discussion of new concepts.

Assessment

Assessment will normally involve end-of-year examinations, and an element of assessed coursework. Practical work is continuously assessed.

Employability

The programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), and holders of accredited degrees can follow a route to Institute of Physics membership and the Chartered Physicist (CPhys) professional qualification. Graduates of accredited Integrated Master's (MPhys or MSci) degrees have fulfilled the educational requirements for CPhys status, while graduates of accredited Bachelor's (BSc) degrees have partially fulfilled these requirements.

Fees and Funding

Fees for this Course

• UK Students: ｣9,535 (2025/26)
• International Students: ｣39,800 (2025/26)

Additional Costs

You will require the approved model of calculator for use in exams, which can be purchased for around ｣11 - ｣15.

Funding Your Studies

Various funding options are available, including student loans, scholarships, and bursaries. The Physics & Astronomy Opportunity Scholarship aims to attract undergraduate students from a broad range of backgrounds to tackle the lack of Black representation within the Physics & Astronomy field.