Mathematical and Theoretical Physics MSc
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
| 2027-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Program Overview
The University of Sheffield offers a Master of Science (MSc) program in Mathematical and Theoretical Physics. This program is designed to equip students with advanced mathematical tools that can be applied in major areas of scientific intrigue, from black holes and dark matter to quantum computing and general relativity.
Course Description
The MSc Mathematical and Theoretical Physics course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced mathematical tools and their applications in physics. Through this program, students will develop problem-solving and data analysis skills that are valuable in a variety of careers, including research, computing, data science, banking, and finance.
Modules
The program includes a range of core and optional modules, such as:
- Dissertation: A piece of extensive work (10-20,000 words) that provides students with the opportunity to synthesise theoretical knowledge on a subject of interest to them.
- Research Skills in Mathematics: A unit that provides training in research-level skills used in mathematics and related technical disciplines.
- Machine Learning: A module that focuses on the problem of training models to learn from training data to classify new examples of data.
- Financial Mathematics: A course that describes the mathematical ideas behind the development of modern finance.
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics: A module that covers quantum mechanics at an intermediate to advanced level.
- Advanced Particle Physics: A module that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of modern particle physics.
- Mathematical Modelling of Natural Systems: A module that provides a practical introduction to techniques for modelling natural systems.
- Introduction to Cosmology: A course that aims to provide students with an understanding of the Universe as its own entity.
- Quantum Optics and Quantum Computing: A module that introduces quantum computing through the fundamental concepts of quantum gates and circuits.
Duration and Attendance
The program is offered on a full-time basis and lasts for one year.
Teaching and Assessment
Students will be taught through a series of lectures, tutorials, practical tasks, problem-solving classes, and a research project. Assessment will be in the form of examinations, assignments, and a dissertation.
Career Prospects
Employers hire graduates of this program because of their ability to analyse problems and reach solutions in a clear, precise, and logical way. Graduates have been hired by a variety of employers, including BAE Systems, Barclays, Dell, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, IBM, Lloyds, PwC, Unilever, the Civil Service, and the NHS.
School
The program is offered by the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, which is leading the way with groundbreaking research and innovative teaching.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirement is a 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in Mathematics or Physics. International students are also considered, and their qualifications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
English Language Requirements
The English language requirement is IELTS 6.5 (with 6 in each component) or University equivalent.
Fees and Funding
The fee for the program is £12,680 for home students and £29,190 for overseas students. There are also scholarships available, including a £3,000 tuition fee discount for overseas fee-paying students and a £2,500 discount for Sheffield graduates.
