Physics with Theoretical Physics

Physics with theoretical physics is for students who want to engage deeply with the mathematical and conceptual foundations that underlie the physical world. Theoretical physics asks why things happen the way they do, constructing mathematical frameworks that explain phenomena from the behaviour of subatomic particles to the structure of the cosmos. It sits alongside experimental work, challenging and refining theories by confronting them with observation, and it generates the conceptual breakthroughs that have repeatedly transformed our understanding of matter, energy, space and time.

At the University of Bath, this three-year full-time programme offers a rigorous grounding in both the experimental and theoretical dimensions of physics. You will study classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, special relativity, statistical mechanics and the mathematics that connects these fields. The theoretical physics strand gives you deeper engagement with quantum field theory, general relativity and the mathematical structures underlying modern physics.

In your final year, you will carry out a 15-credit project, with options spanning experimental, theoretical and computational approaches, research-connected projects, industry team projects working on real scientific problems with external clients, and communicating physics projects focused on public engagement with research.

With a typical entry tariff of 184 UCAS points, this is a highly competitive programme. Graduates from physics programmes are known for their exceptional analytical and quantitative skills, which are valuable across an enormous range of careers. Many go into research, either at doctoral level or in industry-based research and development.

Others enter finance, data science, software engineering, consultancy, teaching or the civil service. The combination of rigorous mathematical training, scientific reasoning and problem-solving ability that a physics degree develops makes graduates highly versatile and consistently in demand.