Program Overview

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BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Physics

The book of nature is written in the language of mathematics - Galileo Galilei

Overview

Year of entry: 2026/27

Course Details

• UCAS code: GF13
• Institution code: Y50
• Start date: September 2026
• Length: 3 years full-time (plus optional placement year)
• Typical offer: AAB
• School/department: Department of Mathematics, School of Physics, Engineering and Technology
• UK (home) fees: £9,535
• International and EU fees: £32,350

Course Description

Mathematics and physics are natural subjects to combine at university. Comprehending high-level physics requires a strong mathematical foundation. Mathematical models are developed to explain our observations of the physical world.

Our BSc Mathematics and Physics programme gives you access to the combined expertise of staff working in both physics and mathematics. Our specialist teaching emphasises the mathematical structure of physical theory, providing a strong basis on which to build a comprehensive understanding of modern physics.

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), guaranteeing the standard of our teaching and learning. Completing this degree will put you on track to becoming a Chartered Physicist or Chartered Mathematician.

Course Content

Your studies will be split between physics and mathematics.

• In mathematics, you'll explore areas such as dynamical systems, nonlinear dynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• As your studies progress, you will complete a thorough grounding in physical knowledge, scientific principles, and methods.

Year 1

Year 1 emphasises core material to consolidate your existing knowledge and prepare you for more advanced study.

• Core modules:
  • Classical Mechanics and Laboratories
  • Classical and Quantum Waves
  • Foundations and Calculus
  • Electromagnetism and Relativity
  • Mathematical Programming and Skills
  • Multivariable Calculus and Matrices
• Academic integrity module: This module covers essential skills and knowledge to help you study independently and produce work of a high academic standard.

Year 2

In Year 2, you'll deepen your understanding of fundamental laws, processes, and techniques.

• Core modules:
  • Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism
  • Classical Dynamics
  • Vector and Complex Calculus
  • Statistical and Solid State Physics
  • Quantum, Atomic, Nuclear and Particle Physics
  • Quantum and Continuum Dynamics

Year 3

Year 3 introduces some advanced concepts, building on the expertise you've developed. Option modules give you the chance to delve deeper into your favourite topic or discover a new area of advanced maths or physics.

• Core modules:
  • Extended Independent Project in Mathematics or BSc Research Project and Skills in Physics
• Option modules: Examples include Plasma Physics and Fusion, Quantum Mechanics, Advanced Theoretical Techniques and Modelling Matter, Stars and Galaxies, Relativity and Cosmology, Medical Physics, Nuclear and Particle, Quantum Science and Technologies, Integral Transforms and Complex Methods, Mathematical Modelling: Nonlinearity, Uncertainty, and Computational Methods, Partial Differential Equations, Quantum Theory and Quantum Information, Cryptography, Numerical Analysis, Fluids, Mathematical Ecology, Epidemiology and Evolution, Condensed Matter Physics: Electrons in Solids, Astrobiology, Advanced Sensors and Instrumentation, Mobile Communications and Internet Protocols.

Study Abroad

There are opportunities for you to spend time abroad during your course.

Real-World Experiences

Find your edge by gaining practical experience that boosts your employability. Explore diverse opportunities to apply your knowledge and build vital professional skills, such as placements, internships, and part-time jobs.

Learning Outcomes

Every course at York has been designed to provide clear and ambitious learning outcomes. These learning outcomes give you an understanding of what you will be able to do at the end of the course.

• Identify typical problems posed by the description of nature in mathematical terms and approach them in a systematic manner.
• Investigate unseen problems by adapting known strategies and techniques.
• Extract relevant information from the research literature and use it to effectively assess the pros and cons of a technique or hypothesis.
• Know the strengths and limitations of standard inductive and deductive mathematical reasoning.
• Work independently with confidence to understand current physical theories and/or mathematical research.

Fees and Funding

The fees and funding information is for students starting in the 2025/26 academic year.

• Annual tuition fees:
  • UK (home): £9,535
  • International and EU: £32,350
• Fees for subsequent years: UK (home) fees may increase within the government fee cap in subsequent academic years. International fees are subject to increase in subsequent years in line with the prevailing Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate.

Teaching and Assessment

You’ll study and learn with academics who are active researchers, experts in their field, and have a passion for their subjects.

• Teaching format: Much of your teaching will be in the form of lectures based on our cutting-edge research.
• Assessment and feedback: Most of your assessment will be by formal examination. You'll also be marked on regular problem exercises and laboratory work, coursework, and formal report writing.

Careers and Skills

Our graduates are sought by employers in a huge range of disciplines. The skills you will learn - analysis, mathematics, problem-solving - are relevant in industries from finance to software development.

• Career opportunities: Our graduates are working as accelerator physicists, engineers, scientists, financial coordinators, IT analysts and consultants, teachers, electrical engineers, environmental modellers, accountants.
• Transferable skills: Self-management, communication skills, team working, problem-solving, creativity and innovation, IT literacy, mathematics.

Entry Requirements

• Qualification: Typical offer
  • A levels: AAB including A in Mathematics and B in Physics
  • European Baccalaureate: 80% overall, with 85% in Physics and Maths
  • International Baccalaureate: 35 points overall, including 6 in Higher Level Mathematics and 5 in Higher Level Physics
  • T levels: We are currently not accepting T Levels for this course unless additional A Level (or equivalent qualifications) in Mathematics and Physics have been taken.
  • Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers: Advanced Highers - BB in Physics and Mathematics plus Scottish Highers - BB
  • International foundation programme: Foundation Certificate from our International Pathway College or an appropriate alternative.
• Alternative offers: Meeting the following additional criteria may qualify you for an alternative offer.
  • Widening participation: ABC including A in Mathematics and B in Physics
  • Contextual offer: ABB including grade A in Mathematics and grade B in Physics.
  • EPQ: If you achieve B or higher in the EPQ, you may be eligible for an alternative offer up to one A level grade (or equivalent) below our typical offer.
• English language: If English isn't your first language, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. We accept various qualifications, including IELTS, IB English, Cambridge CEFR, Oxford ELLT, Duolingo, LanguageCert SELT, and PTE Academic.