MPhys Theoretical Physics
Swansea, United Kingdom
Bachelor's degree
DURATION
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2026
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
Theoretical Physics addresses the meaning of everything by employing the language of mathematics to understand the universe. From quantum information and grand unified theories of particle physics to dark matter and cosmology, this subject can take you anywhere.
You will explore the big questions, such as how the universe begin, what space and time are made of and is it is possible to recreate in a laboratory the conditions that existed seconds after the Big Bang?
You will work on a year long advanced MPhys project and learn how to do research at the cutting edge in these fields, under the supervision of internationally recognised theoretical physicists.
Why Theoretical Physics at Swansea?
Physics at Swansea University is a highly regarded degree that attracts students from across the world.
Your learning will be shaped by the large theoretical physics (PPCT) group with inspirational academics such as Professors Carlos Nunez and Tim Hollowood, internationally renowned for their research contributions to string theory, quantum field theory and black hole physics.
The Particle Physics & Cosmology Theory group in Swansea is one of the largest in the UK, with 12 academic staff engaged in research in a wide range of topics in Theoretical Physics.
Your Theoretical Physics Experience
- A flexibly structured degree path means you have the opportunity to study abroad for a year or work in industry for a year, either locally, nationally or overseas.
- Our common student & staff space (the Event Horizon) overlooking spectacular views of Swansea Bay, provides an ideal location for quiet study, informal discussions and lunches.
- The Physics department and the Swansea University Physics Society sponsor frequent social and academic events such as departmental colloquia and distinguished lectures to bring students and staff together.
- Elected student reps for each year and for the Swansea University Physics Society (PhySoc) ensure that every student's voice is heard through regular meetings with HoDs.
- Our groups in Particle Physics and Cosmology Theory, Applied Materials, and the ALPHA anti-matter collaboration with close ties to CERN, ensure that our teaching is informed by the latest research. Students have the opportunity to do a summer internship at CERN and undertake final year projects with any of our major research groups.
International Excellence Scholarships are available to both Undergraduate and Postgraduate students. Other scholarships are available, please see our website for more information including eligibility criteria and closing dates.
You will typically study:Classical Mechanics, Astronomy and Cosmology, Mathematics for Physicists I, Quantum Mechanics I, Special Relativity, Electromagnetism,Practical Physics III,Mathematics for Physicists III,Thermal and statistical physics,Quantum Mechanics II, Theoretical physics and astrophysics
Year 1 (Level 4)
Compulsory Modules
- Dynamics, Oscillations and Waves
- Astronomy and Cosmology
- Physics of Fields and Matter
- Essential Skills for Physicists
- The Quantum World
- Mathematics for Physicists I
- Mathematics for Physicists II
Optional Modules
- Laboratory Physics I
- Ffiseg Labordy I
Year 2 (Level 5)
Compulsory Modules
- Statistical Physics
- Physics Simulation
- Quantum Mechanics I
- Mathematical Methods in Physics I
- Condensed Matter Physics I
- Electromagnetism and Special Relativity I
- Electromagnetism II
- Mathematical Methods in Physics II
- Particle Physics I
Optional Modules
- Laboratory Physics 2 and Group Projects
- Ffiseg Labordy 2 a Phrosiectau Grwp
- Laboratory Physics 2 and Group Projects
- Ffiseg Labordy 2 a Phrosiectau Grwp
- Professional Development and Career Planning
- Foundations of Astrophysics
- Nanotechnology
Year 3 (Level 6)
Compulsory Modules
- Semiconductor Device Physics
- Quantum Mechanics II
- Atomic Physics I
- Condensed Matter Physics II
- Theoretical Physics Project
- General Relativity
- Atomic Physics and Quantum Optics II
- Particle Physics II
- Frontiers of Nuclear Physics
Optional Modules
- Foundations of Astrophysics
- Cosmology
- Teaching Physics via a School Placement
- Addysgu ffiseg trwy leoliad mewn ysgol
- Advanced Research in Physics
- Arbrofion Opsiwn
- 11th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2025)
- 3rd in the UK for Teaching Quality (Guardian University Guide 2025)
- 5th in the UK for Teaching on my Course* (NSS 2024) * Based on the average positivity score across questions 1 to 4 in the NSS 2024 when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide.
- Top 201-250 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Theoretical Physics Employment Opportunities
Our Swansea Physics graduates have excelled in a wide range of careers, including roles as research physicists, data scientists, AI and software engineers, demand forecasters, patent examiners, and quantitative finance analysts. Our alumni network illustrates their involvement across many sectors, such as government research, aerospace, defence, energy, nuclear, engineering, the private sector, education, and space exploration. We take pride in the strong connections they maintain with the department and are delighted to showcase their career advancements to our current students.