Theoretical Physics and Applied Mathematics BSc

Program Overview

This joint honors program in Physics and Mathematics provides a broad foundation in both disciplines, developing problem-solving abilities and preparing students for careers in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. The program offers flexibility, allowing students to focus on one subject or continue with both in later years, while drawing on the expertise of leading researchers in the field. It fosters a supportive learning environment with small cohort sizes and individualized guidance, and boasts a high employability rate and opportunities for further study, including PhDs.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This program is a joint honors degree between the School of Physics and Astronomy and the School of Mathematics. It is designed for students who are equally interested in both physics and mathematics. The program allows students to split their time evenly between the two schools in the early years, with the option to focus on one subject or continue with both in later years. The program is unique in providing a cohesive program of study with plenty of choice.

Objectives:

The program aims to provide students with a broad range of knowledge and skills in both theoretical physics and applied mathematics. It also aims to develop students' problem-solving abilities and prepare them for a wide range of careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Description:

The program draws on the expertise of Birmingham physicists and mathematicians engaged in cutting-edge research. It offers a wide range of optional modules and projects, and has a high employability rate, including a high percentage of graduates who go on to do PhDs. The program is accredited by the Institute of Physics.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Chaos and Non-linear Systems B - 10 credits
• Communication Skills and Data Analysis - 10 credits
• Electromagnetism and Temperature and Matter - 20 credits
• Mechanics - 10 credits
• Quantum Mechanics and Optics and Waves - 10 credits
• Real Analysis - 20 credits
• Sequences and Series - 10 credits
• Special Relativity and Probability and Random Processes - 10 credits
• Vectors, Geometry & Linear Algebra - 20 credits

Year 2:

• Differential Equations - 20 credits
• Eigenphysics - 10 credits
• Electromagnetism 2 - 10 credits
• Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Mechanics - 10 credits
• Linear Algebra - 10 credits
• Multivariable & Vector Analysis - 20 credits
• Particles and Nuclei & A Quantum Approach to Solids - 10 credits
• Physics and Communication Skills 2 - 10 credits
• Quantum Mechanics 2 - 10 credits
• Statistical Physics and Entropy - 10 credits

Year 3:

Core Modules:

• Complex Variable Theory - 10 credits
• Quantum Mechanics 3 - 10 credits
• Statistical Physics - 10 credits

Required Modules:

• EITHER Research Skills in Mathematics (20 credits) OR Current Topics in Theoretical Physics (10 credits) AND Scientific Computing Laboratory 2 (10 credits)

Optional Modules:

• Choose 50-60 credits (depending on core choices above).
Minimum of 20 Physics and 20 Mathematics modules must be taken. Example modules listed below:
• Applied Mathematical Analysis - 20 credits
• Advanced Mathematical Modelling - 20 credits
• Atomic Physics - 10 credits
• Biophysics - 10 credits
• Chaos and Dynamical Systems - 10 credits
• Condensed Matter Physics - 10 credits
• Continuum Mechanics - 20 credits
• Evolution of Cosmic Structure - 10 credits
• Fission and Fusion - 10 credits
• Exoplanets - 10 credits
• Fission and Fusion - 10 credits
• General Physics - 10 credits
• Group Studies - 20 credits
• Images and Communications - 10 credits
• Medical Imaging - 10 credits
• Nuclear Physics - 10 credits
• Numerical Methods and Numerical Linear Algebra - 20 credits
• Observational Cosmology - 10 credits
• Particle Physics - 10 credits
• Physics Teaching in Schools - 10 credits
• Physical Principles of Radar - 10 credits
• Radiation and Relativity - 10 credits
• Scientific Computing Laboratory 1 - 10 credits
• The Life and Death of Stars - 10 credits

Assessment:

Modules are assessed in a variety of ways: exams, class tests, problem sheets, and project reports. There is a strong emphasis on project work in the final year of the degree course.

Teaching:

Most modules are delivered in the form of traditional lectures given by active physics or mathematics researchers. Students also learn through tutorials, examples classes, and guided study. Computing and transferable skills are also interwoven into their studies.

Careers:

Graduates of this program can pursue a wide range of careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Some examples include:

• Scientific researcher
• Medical physicist
• Energy consultant
• Defence analyst
• Meteorologist
• Statistician
• Financial services analyst
• Business consultant

Other:

• The program is academically challenging, but the staff are always happy to help with any questions.
• Weekly tutorials in the first two years allow students to work through any problems with their tutor.
• The small cohort size makes it easy to build friendships with other students.
• The program is identical for the first two years for both BSc and MSci degrees, so students don't need to make a final decision until the end of the second year.

Fees

Annual tuition fees 2024/25 £9,250 - UK £27,180 - International Fees for placement years (where applicable) There is a reduced tuition fee for the academic year spent in industry or whilst studying abroad (where available).

How To Apply

• Apply through the UCAS website using code FG31.
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