Mathematics and Physics

MSci
Four years full-time
Durham City
G430
Typical offers
A Level | A*AA |
---|---|
BTEC | D*DD |
International Baccalaureate | 38 |
Course details
The MSci Mathematics and Physics degree focuses on mathematical rigour and theoretical aspects of physics taught by discipline experts. Mathematics and Physics are closely interlinked subjects, with each providing many fascinating insights into the other.
The course provides a parallel track of theoretical physics taught by the Physics Department and mathematical physics and applied mathematics options taught by the Mathematics Department which culminates in the opportunity to study particle theory, superstrings, modern theories of electronic structure, and vibrational properties of materials including superconductivity in Year 4.
The Institute of Physics recognize this degree.
The first year lays the foundation in physics theory, mathematical skills and laboratory skills that are needed to tackle more complex content later in the course. As the course through progresses the level of theoretical content increases, extending your knowledge in areas such as electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, particle theory, and advanced mathematical theory.
The MSci has the same course structure as the BSc with an equal balance of Mathematics and Physics to provide an essential foundation. From the third year, the MSci introduces a wider range of modules that are more closely aligned to real-world issues and an advanced project in the final year.
Course structure
Year 1 modules
Core modules:
Calculus
builds on ideas of differentiation and integration in A-level mathematics, beginning with functions of a single variable and moving on to functions of several variables. Topics include methods of solving ordinary and partial differential equations, and an introduction to Fourier Series and Fourier transforms.
Linear Algebra
presents mathematical ideas, techniques in linear algebra and develops the geometric intuition and familiarity with vector methods in preparation for more challenging material later in the course.
Analysis
aims to provide an understanding of real and complex number systems, and to rigorously develop the calculus of functions of a single variable from basic principles.
Foundations of Physics
introduces classical aspects of wave phenomena and electromagnetism, as well as basic concepts in Newtonian mechanics, quantum mechanics, special relativity and optical physics.
Discovery Skills in Physics
provides a practical introduction to laboratory skills development with particular emphasis on measurement uncertainty, data analysis and written and oral communication skills. It also includes an introduction to programming.
Year 2 modules
Core modules:
Complex Analysis
introduces the theory of complex analysis through the study of complex differentiation; conformal mappings; metric spaces; series and uniform convergence; contour integrals and calculus of residues; and applications.
Analysis in Many Variables
provides an understanding of calculus in more than one dimension, together with an understanding of, and facility with, the methods of vector calculus. It also explores the application of these ideas to a range of forms of integration and to solutions of a range of classical partial differential equations.
Foundations of Physics 2A
develops your knowledge of quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. You will learn to apply the principles of physics to predictable and unpredictable problems and produce a well-structured solution, with clear reasoning and appropriate presentation.
Foundations of Physics 2B
extends your knowledge of thermodynamics, condensed matter physics and optics.
EITHER Mathematical Physics
provides a mathematical appreciation of the conceptual framework of classical and quantum physics by following the development of mechanics after Newton's laws to the introduction of quantum mechanics.
OR Theoretical Physics 2
from a Physics perspective develops an appreciation of the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of classical mechanics; an ability to describe the rotational motion of a rigid body; describe elements of quantum mechanics in a rigorous mathematical way and to manipulate them at the operator level.
Optional modules:
- Algebra
- Numerical Analysis
- Stars and Galaxies
- Laboratory Skills and Electronics.
Year 3 modules
Core modules:
Foundations of Physics 3A
further develops your knowledge to include quantum mechanics and nuclear and particle physics. You will learn to apply the principles of physics to complex problems and produce a well-structured solution, with clear reasoning and appropriate presentation.
Theoretical Physics 3*
introduces more advanced methods in electromagnetism that can be used to investigate more realistic problems and concepts. It also builds your quantum mechanics knowledge and addressing further applications and conceptual issues of measurement and interpretation.
* required for students who took Theoretical Physics 2 in Year 2
Optional modules:
- Analysis
- Differential Geometry
- Fluid Mechanics
- Solitons
- Topology
- Quantum Computing
- Geometry of Mathematical Physics
- Foundations of Physics B
- Computing Project
- Modern Atomic and Optical Physics
- Team Project
- Planets and Cosmology
- Science Enterprise.
Year 4 modules
Core modules:
Either Physics or Mathematics Project is taking which allows you to gain research experience in physics, mathematics, or astronomy. This develops transferable skills in oral and written research presentations. Projects are conducted within research groups, placing you at the forefront of developments in your chosen field.
Optional modules:
- General Relativity
- Advanced Quantum Theory
- Superstrings
- Geophysical and Astrophysical Fluids
- Statistical Mechanics
- Advanced Theoretical Physics
- Atoms, Lasers and Qubits
- Particle Theory
- Theoretical Astrophysics.
Additional Pathways
Students can apply to be transferred onto either the with Year Abroad or with Placement pathway during the second year. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen your studies will extend from three years to four.
Accreditation
Here at Durham, we strive to develop the practical and intellectual skills sought by employers. Modules such as the Team Project, Science Enterprise and the final year Project are designed to develop the critical thinking, complex problem solving and decision making skills that are cited as important by employers across many sectors.
These skills are further enhanced by the advanced academic content studied through the MSci. This ensures you not only know how to perform specific tasks but also understand the reasoning behind them. This can give you a competitive edge in the workplace while also providing a solid foundation for higher level research.
Previous graduates from mathematics and physics degrees at Durham now work for organisations including Royal London, Deloitte, CERN, Procter & Gamble and BAE Systems. Following an MSci route, many pursue higher level qualifications including PhDs in areas of physics and mathematical sciences.
Learning
Our diverse teaching methods support learning and include lectures, tutorials, problem classes, homework problems, written and oral presentations and individual projects. Laboratory classes in Year 1 give you the chance to plan experiments, interpret data, and provide a sound basis upon which to ground your theoretical understanding and problem-solving abilities. Questions may be set in lectures and form the topic of discussion in tutorials or problem classes. We place great emphasis on high-quality small-group teaching, one-on-one attention from your academic advisors in each discipline, self-directed learning to develop your critical thinking skills, and collaborative working with other students.
An advanced project in a chosen topic under academic staff supervision may result in a significant piece of independent research.
Assessment
The majority of modules are assessed entirely through examination with others including online tests or an element of coursework (which may involve problem solving exercises, written reports, practical work and assignments).
The final-year advanced Project is an opportunity to bring your prior learning to a project of your choice. The Project, which is assessed through a combination of oral and written presentation, is a significant piece of independent research completed under the supervision of an academic from your chosen specialism.
Entry requirements
A level offer – A*AA
Contextual offer – AAB
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – D*DD
IB Diploma score – 38 points overall including 7 in Mathematics (maths analysis & approaches), 6 in Higher Level Physics and 6 in a further Higher Level subject.
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:
- We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study.
- There is no advantage in applying for both MSci and BSc degrees.
- Entry requirements are the same for both MSci and BSc degrees.
- We are pleased to consider applications for deferred entry.
including A in Physics and either A*A in any order in Maths and Further Maths at A level or A* in Maths plus A in AS Further Maths.
-A*BB
Alternative qualifications
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements for this degree might have the option to complete an International Foundation Year.
Fees and funding
The fees for this academic year have not been confirmed yet.
Full-Time Study
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full-time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full-time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and will be subject to an annual inflationary increase expected to rise throughout the programme of study. The fee listed above is for the first year of the course only; fees for subsequent years will be confirmed not less than 3 months before the start of the academic year to which the increase is intended to apply and will be published on the Finance webpages.
In deciding the annual level of increase, the University will take into account inflationary pressures on the costs of delivery. Tuition fees will rise annually by up to the higher of:
- 6%, or
- the latest annual percentage increase in the Consumer Prices Index.
Part-Time Study
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of part-time study and are charged proportionately to the Full-Time fee. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances and are delighted to offer a range of funding opportunities.
Find out more about Scholarships and BursariesCareer opportunities
Natural Sciences
Graduates acquire a valuable range of subject-specific skills across disciplines with the capacity to make creative connections. They are highly employable in a diverse range of careers and sectors.
Natural Sciences graduates have the academic knowledge, flexibility and technical skills to take on roles including consulting, accounting, banking and investment, research, software engineer, data scientist, international development, and government.
Of those students who graduated in 2021-22:
- 82% are in work and/or further study.
Of those in employment:
- 97% in highly skilled employment.
- £35,000 is the average salary.
(Source: HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey. The survey asks leavers from higher education what they are doing 15 months after graduation. Further information about the Graduate Outcomes survey can be found here www.graduateoutcomes.ac.uk)
Department information
Natural Sciences
Take a Joint-Honours degree or design your own bespoke qualification that allows you to combine subjects beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Real-world challenges often require multidisciplinary solutions. Our Natural Sciences degrees allow students to combine either traditional Joint-Honours degrees or transcend traditional subject boundaries, bringing together a range of ideas and disciplinary perspectives.
You can study for a BSc or MSci. Both qualifications allow you to design your own degree, majoring in at least one science subject: Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Earth Sciences; Mathematics; Physics; and Psychology; with the possibility of studying a second science discipline, Anthropology, Business, Economics, Education, Geography, Philosophy or Sport & Exercise Sciences. Focus on two subjects from the outset, or choose a broader range of modules across three or four subjects. These highly flexible courses include the opportunity to undertake a year abroad or a placement year, to develop additional skills and enjoy new experiences.
Natural Sciences is a challenging and rewarding choice for science students who wish to study more than one subject.
For more information see our department pages.
Rankings
3rd in The Times and Sunday Times University Guide 2025
Staff
For a current list of staff, please see our department web pages.
Facilities
You will have access to a wide range of facilities across multiple departments. Most departments are close to the historic centre of Durham which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Apply
Find out more:
Use the UCAS code below when applying:
Apply
G430
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) handles applications for all undergraduate courses.
Visit Us
The best way to find out what Durham is really like is to come and see for yourself!
Similar courses
-
Computer Science - BSc
UCAS Code: G400Start: September 2026 -
Computer Science and Mathematics - BSc
UCAS Code: G411Start: September 2026 -
Mathematics - BSc
UCAS Code: G100Start: September 2026 -
Mathematics and Statistics - BSc
UCAS Code: G111Start: September 2026 -
Natural Sciences - BSc
UCAS Code: CFG0Start: September 2026 - See more courses
Computer Science - BSc
/prod01/prodbucket01/media/durham-university/study/individual-course-and-cta-images/G400.png)
Computer Science and Mathematics - BSc
/prod01/prodbucket01/media/durham-university/study/individual-course-and-cta-images/C8K107.png)
Mathematics - BSc
/prod01/prodbucket01/media/durham-university/study/individual-course-and-cta-images/G100.png)
Mathematics and Statistics - BSc
/prod01/prodbucket01/media/durham-university/study/individual-course-and-cta-images/G111.png)
Natural Sciences - BSc
/prod01/prodbucket01/media/durham-university/study/individual-course-and-cta-images/CFG0.png)