Program Overview

Mathematical and Theoretical Physics

Course Overview

Mathematical and Theoretical Physics (F340) at Aberystwyth University will develop your understanding of the more theoretical parts of Physics, replacing an experimental approach to Physics with a solid grounding in Mathematics.

This combination of Mathematics and Physics links to many spheres of interest, and students studying this diverse subject are very much in demand with employers.

This degree is accredited by the IMA (Institute for Mathematics and its Applications), the UK's learned and professional society for mathematics.

Key Facts

• UCAS Tariff: 120 - 112
• Course duration: 3 years
• Available for: September start 2025

Modules

Year 1

• Core:
  • Algebra *
  • Calculus *
  • Coordinate and Vector Geometry
  • Differential Equations
  • Dynamics, Waves and Heat *
  • Further Algebra and Calculus *
  • Mathematical Analysis *
  • Modern Physics
  • Probability
  • Statistics
• Options:
  • Energy and the Environment
  • Laboratory Techniques for Experimental Physics (10 Credits) *
  • Physics Career Planning and Skills Development *

Year 2

• Core:
  • Complex Analysis *
  • Distributions and Estimation
  • Electricity and Magnetism *
  • Introduction to Abstract Algebra
  • Linear Algebra *
  • Mathematical Physics *
  • Principles of Quantum Mechanics
  • Real Analysis
  • Thermodynamics
• Options:
  • Advanced Dynamics
  • Hydrodynamics 1

Year 3

• Core:
  • Particles, Quanta and Fields
  • Group Theory
  • Norms and Differential Equations
  • Partial Differential Equations
  • Probability and Stochastic Processes

Careers

Graduates in Mathematics and Physics are highly valued by employers for their skills in numeracy and problem-solving.

Graduates of Mathematics and Physics could enter careers such as:

• Engineering
• Scientific writing and publishing
• Risk analysis
• Operational Research
• Business consultancy
• Medical physics
• Meteorology
• Computing
• Accounting and Finance

Transferable Skills

Studying for a degree in Mathematical and Theoretical Physics will equip you with a range of transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. These include:

• research and data analysis skills
• enhanced mathematical and computational skills
• effective problem-solving and creative thinking skills
• a thorough grounding in information technology skills
• the ability to work independently
• time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines
• the ability to express ideas and communicate information in a clear and structured manner, in both written and oral form
• self-motivation and self-reliance
• team-working, with the ability to discuss concepts in groups, accommodating different ideas and reaching agreement

Teaching & Learning

This course will develop your understanding of a wide range of theories and processes in Mathematics and Physics and will teach you to apply the techniques you have learnt in order to solve problems and explore research questions.

The first two years of the course consist predominantly of modules covering a wide range of themes in algebra, calculus, differential equations, quantum mechanics, dynamics and thermal physics.

As well as your core third year modules, you will have a wide choice from both Mathematics and Physics, allowing you to tailor the course to suit your own interests.

Students may choose, at the end of their second year, to switch to the four year course in Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, subject to satisfactory academic performance, leading to an MMath qualification.

Typical Entry Requirements

• UCAS Tariff: 120 - 112
• A Levels: BBB-BBC to include B in Mathematics and B in Physics
• GCSE requirements: (minimum grade C/4): English or Welsh and Mathematics
• BTEC National Diploma: DDM-DMM with B in A level Mathematics and B in Physics
• International Baccalaureate: 30-26 with 5 points in Mathematics and Physics at Higher Level
• European Baccalaureate: 75%-65% overall with 7 in Mathematics and Physics
• English Language Requirements: See our Undergraduate English Language Requirements for this course. Pre-sessional English Programmes are also available for students who do not meet our English Language Requirements.