Mathematics/Physics

Mathematics and physics together address the most fundamental questions that science can ask, about the structure of matter, the nature of space and time, the laws governing the universe and the mathematical language in which those laws are expressed. The two disciplines are deeply intertwined: much of modern physics is built on mathematical frameworks, from the calculus of Newton to the differential geometry of general relativity and the operator algebra of quantum mechanics, and many mathematical structures have found physical applications that their originators did not anticipate. Studying both produces graduates with exceptional analytical abilities.

At the University of Glasgow, this five-year MA(Hons) programme gives you the opportunity to explore a wide variety of courses in the honours years, developing advanced expertise in both mathematics and physics across a range of specialisms. You will build a thorough grounding in pure and applied mathematics alongside core physics, from classical mechanics and electromagnetism through to quantum mechanics, statistical physics and more advanced topics as the programme develops. A year abroad is built in, giving you the opportunity to study at an international partner institution.

The programme also includes an ambassador scheme through which students can spend time in schools, experiencing teaching and developing workplace skills.

Graduates in mathematics and physics are among the most analytically capable of any degree discipline, and their career options reflect this breadth. Academic research, technology development, finance and quantitative analysis, data science, engineering, science communication and teaching are all common destinations. Many pursue postgraduate study in mathematics, physics, mathematical physics, data science or a related quantitative field.

The combination of deep mathematical rigour and physical intuition is particularly valued in sectors including quantum technology, aerospace, financial modelling and academic research at the frontier of fundamental science.