Undergraduate

Theoretical Physics

Student using equipment in the George Grey Centre Physics lab
Plasma particle viewed under a micoscope
Mathematical equations written on a whiteboard
Two students examine the contents of a test tube in a laboratory

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Physics degrees are highly valued. Our graduates go on to careers in a diverse range of fields from medical physics to R&D to laser systems engineering and more.
You’ll be taught by our world-leading academics delving deep into fundamental physics and mathematical concepts.
Develop valuable skills in data science, programming, problem solving, mathematics, communication and teamwork.
Build investigative skills and carry out research, tackling as yet unanswered questions.
Learn in our physics lab as part of our vibrant student community. Physics at Hull has one of the most diverse student populations in the country.
Student using equipment in the George Grey Centre Physics lab
Plasma particle viewed under a micoscope
Mathematical equations written on a whiteboard
Two students examine the contents of a test tube in a laboratory
Physics Teaching Laboratory

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Duration

Mode

  • Standard course
  • Integrated masters
  • September 2024
  • September 2025

Take your theoretical knowledge and mathematical skills to a higher level on this accredited BSc degree programme.

Gain a deep understanding of fundamental physics and maths concepts. And develop investigative skills to apply these concepts in new areas of science, technology and enterprise.

You’ll conduct research within areas like advanced materials, lasers and space – tackling as yet unanswered questions. Many of our graduates go on to careers in some of the best-known laboratories and research facilities, including Jodrell Bank and the National Nuclear Laboratory.

  • 1st in the UK

    for Teaching Satisfaction 1

  • Top 10 in the UK

    for Student Satisfaction 2

  • Institute of Physics

    accredited

  • Home to Viper

    One of the UK's most powerful supercomputers

  • Diverse

    student population

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Course overview
Module options

About this course

Theoretical Physics at Hull gives you the mathematical tools to gain a deep understanding of modern physics – from the sub-atomic level to a cosmological scale.

We’ll help you develop the transferable data science skills that employers value – including in Python, one of the fastest-growing programming languages. You'll pick up sought-after skills in everything from communication and team work to problem solving, alongside programming, maths and research experience.

Nurtured by world-leading academics, you’ll have weekly tutorials in your first two years. Plus one-to-one feedback sessions with your tutor throughout your degree.

We run a packed calendar of over 100 events every year, spanning widening participation, diversity and curriculum-enhancing activities. We’re part of a unique employability network, the White Rose Industrial Physics Alliance, which runs careers events featuring potential future employers.

Our physics programmes have some of the most diverse student populations in the country thanks to our award-winning Changing Face of Physics Campaign.

Scheduled study hours and how you’re assessed

Throughout your degree, you’re expected to study for 1,200 hours per year. That’s based on 200 hours per 20 credit module. And it includes scheduled hours, time spent on placement and independent study. How this time is divided across the year varies and depends on the module you are studying.

How you'll be assessed depends on the course you study, and the modules you choose. You may be assessed through a mix of examinations, coursework, presentations and group projects.

Choose your modules

Each year, you’ll study modules worth a certain number of credits, and you need 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits – so you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more. In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120. Some modules are compulsory, some are optional, so you can build a course that’s right for you.

Discovery Skills

Learn the discovery skills to join the next generation of 21st Century physicists. Skills include experimental design, problem solving, data analysis, research skills, teamwork and professional conduct.

Core•20 credits

Mathematics for Physicists

Develop your maths abilities to solve physics problems and formulate the outcome of your experiments in the lab.

Core•20 credits

Classical and Quantum Physics

Explore Newton's Laws and extend them to simple fluid dynamics, then study the experimental and theoretical foundations of Quantum Mechanics.

Compulsory•20 credits

Electromagnetism and Differential Equations

Discover electrostatics and magnetostatics and apply your knowledge of them to real-world scenarios. You'll further develop your maths skills, delving into the realm of differential equations and their applications, which extend well beyond physics.

Compulsory•20 credits

Experimental and Computational Methods for Physics

Acquire a wide repertoire in advanced measurement techniques, strengthening your skills in fault finding, data analysis, and experiment design. You'll also learn the essentials of Python, which is one of the most popular programming languages. By the end of this module, you'll be able to plot the data from your experiments and then develop some simple data analysis algorithms that frame your data within a physics model or theory.

Compulsory•20 credits

Astronomy and Optics

Undertake a journey to unveil some of the most fascinating wonders of the cosmos, from the physics that regulates the dance of planetary systems to the formation and evolution of stars, galaxies and the large-scale structure of the Universe. You'll explore the physics of the optical systems that enable astronomical observations.

Compulsory•20 credits
6 Modules

Properties of Matter and Concepts in Quantum Mechanics

Apply the Schrödinger equation to a wide range of interactions and explore how the possible outcomes of a measurement are described in Quantum Mechanics. You'll then explore how the behaviour of atoms can explain the macroscopic properties of the matter around us in a statistical sense. 

Compulsory•20 credits

Waves and Vector Calculus

Study the essentials of wave phenomena, leading up to electromagnetic waves and Maxwell's equations. You'll also explore more advanced maths techniques to solve multi-dimensional physics problems.

Compulsory•20 credits

Differential Equations

Explore solution-generating techniques including Wronskian procedures, Laplace transforms and the method of Frobenius, concluding with the more advanced application of Sturm-Liouville theory.

Compulsory•20 credits

Statistical Physics, Thermodynamics and Special Relativity

Discover how Albert Einstein forever revolutionised the concepts of space and time last century, exploring the implications of his Theory of Special Relativity. You'll analyse the equilibrium behaviour of many-body systems from a macroscopic point of view (thermodynamics) and from a microscopic point of view (statistical physics).

Compulsory•20 credits

Physics by Inquiry with Scientific Communication

You'll work on a series of mini research projects to investigate a range of physical phenomena, developing your experimental, computational, collaborative and communication skills.

Compulsory•20 credits

Partial Differential Equations

Study methods for solving first- and second-order partial differential equations, mainly for scalar-valued functions of two or more variables.

Compulsory•20 credits
6 Modules

Research Skills and Project

Plan, research, conduct and report a scientific investigation, either individually or in a group. This might include programming, data acquisition and analysis, and a study of related literature. 

Core•20 credits

Advanced Electromagnetism and Plasma Physics

Explore how the properties of the electromagnetic field change when light interacts with different materials. You'll also learn to describe and define the main characteristics of a plasma.

Compulsory•20 credits

Scientific Computing and Advanced Quantum Mechanics

Simulate complex physical systems by developing advanced numerical methods. You'll study advanced concepts and analysis techniques in quantum mechanics that will allow you to characterise the behaviour of complex physical systems.

Compulsory•20 credits

Nuclear Physics and Elementary Particles

Discover the subatomic world and the interactions between the fundamental building blocks of matter in Nature.

Optional•20 credits

Differential Geometry and Topology

Study curves and surfaces in 3D using vector calculus, linear algebra and analysis. How do you make a map of the world? What is the Möbius strip? How curved is a sphere or a cube?

Optional•20 credits

Lasers, Superconductivity and Magnetism

Study the physics of laser physics and applications from international experts in the discipline. You'll further explore the physics of superconductors and discover the quantum-mechanical origin of magnetism in substances. 

Optional•20 credits

Nanophysics

Examine how physics is applied on the nanoscale to achieve functionality in materials and devices including in nanoelectronics and self-assembled structured fluids.

Optional•20 credits

Extreme Astrophysics

Explore a breadth of advanced contemporary research topics in high-energy astrophysics ranging from the (sub)atomic scales of cosmic rays to the cosmological scales of galaxy clusters and active galactic nuclei. Each topic is viewed from different angles, depending on the physical properties that scientists want to unveil by using different observational and theoretical techniques. 

Optional•20 credits
8 Modules

MPhys Project

Plan, research, execute and report a scientific investigation, either individually or in a group guided by your supervisor. You'll be assigned either an individual experiment or a theoretical project. This might include programming, data acquisition and analysis, and a study of related literature.

Core•40 credits

Problem Solving in Physics and Data Science

Cover a selection of topics in data science, which lies at the interface of applied mathematics, probability and statistics, physics and computer science. Develop strategies for solving problems using approximate, exact or numerical techniques by working in teams. Explore different means of communication to explain your approaches and disseminate your findings to different target audiences.

Compulsory•20 credits

General Relativity and Cosmology

You'll learn Einstein's theory of general relativity, exploring how the physical properties of black holes shape the space-time around them and discovering what gravitational waves are. You'll also learn the details of cosmological models to explain the expansion history of the Universe and the formation and evolution of large-scale structures.

Compulsory•20 credits

Quantum Technology

Discover how quantum physics will revolutionise information and technology in the next century.

Optional• credits

Asymptotic Methods

Many real-world mathematical problems are impossible to solve by hand due to their complexity. One of the most powerful tools in approaching such problems is to look for approximate solutions. Asymptotic methods is a course where we teach a series of mathematical techniques to approximate solutions and, in doing so, we'll see the hidden beauty in simple equations such boundary layer theory.

Optional•20 credits

Nanophotonics

Here we cover developments in nanophotonic materials and devices.

Optional• credits

Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics

You'll explore practical applications of fluid dynamics in the context of astrophysics.

Optional•20 credits

Advanced Fluids

This is a higher level module reflecting specific expertise and a proud historical tradition that Hull has in work on fluid dynamics.

Optional•20 credits
8 Modules

MPhys Project

Plan, research, execute and report a scientific investigation, either individually or in a group guided by your supervisor. You'll be assigned either an individual experiment or a theoretical project. This might include programming, data acquisition and analysis, and a study of related literature.

Core•40 credits

General Relativity and Further Quantum Mechanics

The physics of the very large and the very small. You’ll learn Einstein’s theory of general relativity and explore topics in quantum mechanics.

Compulsory•20 credits

Lasers and their Applications

Study the physics of laser action and the principles of important laser types. You'll also explore the applications of lasers by considering the interaction of laser light with matter.

Optional•20 credits

Capstone Research Topics in Astronomy

​This module will deliver cutting-edge research topics across astronomy and astrophysics. You'll also be trained in the use of modern astrophysics databases.

Optional•20 credits

Self-Assembly and Nanoelectronics

How physics is applied on the nanoscale to achieve functionality in materials and devices including in nanoelectronics and self-assembled structured fluids.

Optional•20 credits

Nanophotonics

Here we cover developments in nanophotonic materials and devices.

Optional• credits

Topics in Data Science

Cover a selection of topics in data science, which lies at the interface of applied mathematics, probability and statistics, physics and computer science.

Optional•20 credits
7 Modules

This course is accredited by

Playlist

Leah Cox

Student story 1 min

Dr Martin Buzza

Course Overview 2 mins

Teaching facilities

University Life 1 min

Isobel Judson

Student story 1 min

Entry requirements

What do I need?

We consider experience and qualifications from the UK and worldwide which may not exactly match the combinations above.

But it's not just about the grades - we'll look at your whole application. We want to know what makes you tick, and about your previous experience, so make sure that you complete your personal statement.

Have questions? Our admissions team will be happy to help.

What do I need?

If you require a student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level.

See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by the University of Hull.

If your English currently does not reach the University’s required standard for this programme, you may be interested in one of our English language courses.

Visit your country page to find out more about our entry requirements.

Fees & funding

How much is it?

Additional costs you may have to pay

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make:

  • Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
  • Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and computers on campus, but you may want your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

How much is it?

Additional costs you may have to pay

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make:

  • Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
  • Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and computers on campus, but you may want your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

Our academics

Our research ranges from quantum theory to cosmology. It’s at the frontier of physics, helping make sense of the world around us.

You’ll study under world-leading academics who specialise in research areas including condensed matter theory, laser physics and astrophysics.

See more academics for this subject
Dr Ali Adawi
Featured academic

Dr Ali Adawi

Ali specialises in research focused on areas of organic and inorganic semiconductor nanostructures, nanophotonics and their technological applications. He has more than 60 research publications in these fields and a patent.
Martin A Buzza
Featured academic

Dr Martin Buzza

Martin's research interests are in colloid and interface science and soft condensed matter physics, focusing on modelling the self-assembly of colloids and polymers at fluid interfaces and in the bulk

Take a look at our facilities

Supercomputing

You’ll have access to Viper – the highest-spec computer at any university in the North of England.

Physics Laboratory

Gain the tools you need for a broad understanding of modern physics in our physics lab.

Brynmor Jones Library

Our seven-storey library is a superb learning space. As well as over a million books, there’s a variety of study areas, and one amazing view.

Open-access PCs

You’ll find over 400 open-access PCs in our library, as well as over 70 laptops to borrow. There’s also learning rooms with big-screen PCs and private study rooms - plus interactive projector tables.

See more in our virtual tour
VIPER high performance computing

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VIPER high performance computing
Physics Teaching Laboratory
Brynmor Jones Library Observation Deck
Brynmor Jones Library Reading Room
A physics student

Future prospects

You could go on to employment within a diverse range of fields, such as research and development, telecommunications, IT and computing, education, data science, laser systems engineering, medical physics, nuclear engineering, scientific media, and finance.

Our graduates have secured roles at companies including Rolls-Royce, Thales, QinetiQ, NPL, Reckitt and Clyde Bergemann. Others have gone onto graduate training schemes with the National Grid and the NHS.

This degree meets the educational requirements towards a sought-after qualification as a Chartered Physicist, which opens even more doors to future employment and research opportunities – such as staying on an extra year to gain a Masters.

University of Hull Open Day

Your next steps

Not ready to apply?

Visit our next Open Day, and see all that Hull has to offer for yourself. Talk to our lecturers about your subject, find out what university is really like from our current students, and take a tour of our beautiful campus and amazing facilities.

Book your place now

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  1. The Guardian University Rankings 2024.
  2. (9th) The Complete University Guide 2024.

 

All modules presented on this course page are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

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