UNIVERSITY OF EXETER · UNITED KINGDOM
BSc Theoretical Physics
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS F315
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Top 15 for Physics and Astronomy in three major UK league tablesRankings
- 87% of graduates in employment or further study 15 months after graduationGraduate Outcomes
- Access to advanced research facilities including clean rooms and laser systemsFacilities
- Focus on developing data analysis, critical thinking, and scientific programming skillsSkills Development
- Two extended final-year projects to tackle real-world problemsProject Work
- Supportive and inclusive student-staff environmentLearning Environment
Explore the fundamental principles of the universe with the BSc Theoretical Physics program at the University of Exeter. This three-year degree provides a robust grounding in classical and modern physics, including quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and relativity. You will develop advanced theoretical physics methods and their applications to tackle contemporary scientific challenges. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through extended projects in your final year, fostering teamwork and effective communication skills. You'll gain access to state-of-the-art research facilities and develop highly sought-after skills in data analysis, critical thinking, scientific programming, and science communication, preparing you for a wide range of career paths.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured to build a strong foundation in physics and develop essential professional skills. The first year introduces core physics concepts, mathematics, and computational skills, alongside professional development. The second year deepens your understanding of classical and modern physics. The final year focuses on advanced theoretical topics and culminates in substantial project work. Students can also choose to undertake a year abroad or a professional placement.
- 1
- Physics of Everyday LifePHY1032
- Mathematics SkillsPHY1033
- Computational Data AnalysisPHY1034
- Experimental PhysicsPHY1035
- Employability and Professional Skills DevelopmentPHY1036
- 2
- Analytical and Chaotic DynamicsPHY2032
- From Fields to QuantaPHY2039
- Mathematics for PhysicistsPHY2040
- Experimental Physics IIPHY2041
- Employability and Skills Development IIPHY2042
- Scientific Programming in CPHY2027
- The Physics of Living SystemsPHY2029
- From Atoms to Images with Nonlinear OpticsPHY2043
- 3
- Nuclear and High Energy Particle PhysicsPHY3052
- Methods of Theoretical PhysicsPHY3062
- Principles of Theoretical PhysicsPHY3068
- Physics ProjectPHY3072
- States of MatterPHY3073
- Employability and Professional Skills Development IIIPHY3074
- Electromagnetism IIPHY3051
- The Biophysics of Cells and TissuesPHY3061
- Nanostructures and Graphene SciencePHY3064
- Galaxies and High Energy AstrophysicsPHY3066
- Stars from Birth to DeathPHY3070
- Soft MatterPHY3071
- Introduction to Quantum TechnologyPHY3075
- Fluid Dynamics in Physics and AstronomyPHY3220
- Energy, Materials and SustainabilityPHY3222
Careers
Graduates develop highly valued skills in data analysis, critical thinking, problem-solving, scientific programming, and science communication, making them attractive to a wide range of employers.
- Physicist
- Data Scientist
- Software Developer
- Researcher
- Engineer
- Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the BSc Theoretical Physics programme?
- For A-Levels, you typically need AAA-ABB, including Mathematics (A) and Physics (B), or Mathematics (B) and Physics (A). For the IB Diploma, it's 36/666 – 32/655, including Higher Level 6 in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) and Higher Level 5 in Physics, or vice versa. GCSE English Language at Grade 4/C is also required.
- How do I apply for this programme?
- Applications for undergraduate study are made through UCAS. You will need to check the entry requirements, register your interest with the university, submit your application via UCAS before the deadline, and then await a decision.
- What is the duration of the BSc Theoretical Physics programme?
- The BSc Theoretical Physics programme is a three-year degree. Students also have the option to undertake a year abroad or a professional placement.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Please check the University of Exeter website for current international tuition fees, as they are subject to change.
- What career paths can graduates pursue?
- Graduates develop skills attractive to employers in roles such as Physicist, Data Scientist, Software Developer, Researcher, Engineer, and Analyst.
- What are the estimated living costs?
- Please check the University of Exeter website for estimated living costs, as these are approximate and subject to change.
Entry requirements
A-LevelAAA-ABB. Must include Mathematics (A) and Physics (B), or Mathematics (B) and Physics (A).
IB Diploma36/666 – 32/655, including Higher Level 6 in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) and Higher Level 5 in Physics, or Higher Level 5 in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) and Higher Level 6 in Physics.
BTEC Extended DiplomaDDD-DDM. Must also achieve Grades A and B in A Level Mathematics and Physics.
GCSEGrade 4/C in English Language.
Access to HE Diploma24 L3 credits at Distinction and 21 L3 credits at Merit. Must include 15 L3 credits at Distinction and 12 L3 credits at Merit in Mathematics and Physics subject areas.
Profile B1See English language requirements page for specific test scores and equivalencies.
Contextual offers are available (A-Level: ABB-ABC; IB: 32/655-28/554; BTEC: DDM-DMM), but specific subject requirements must still be met. General Studies is not included in any offer. T-Levels are not accepted.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please check the University website for current international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please check the University website for current home/domestic tuition fees.
LivingPlease check the University website for estimated living costs.
Tuition fees are subject to change. Living cost estimates are approximate.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the typical academic and English language requirements for the BSc Theoretical Physics program.
2. Register Your InterestSign up to receive information and updates about studying at the University of Exeter.
3. Apply via UCASSubmit your application through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) before the deadline.
4. Await DecisionOffers are made based on your application. Decisions are released after applications are assessed.
5. Accept OfferIf an offer is made, follow the instructions to accept it.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the BSc Theoretical Physics programme?
+
For A-Levels, you typically need AAA-ABB, including Mathematics (A) and Physics (B), or Mathematics (B) and Physics (A). For the IB Diploma, it's 36/666 – 32/655, including Higher Level 6 in Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches) and Higher Level 5 in Physics, or vice versa. GCSE English Language at Grade 4/C is also required.
How do I apply for this programme?
+
Applications for undergraduate study are made through UCAS. You will need to check the entry requirements, register your interest with the university, submit your application via UCAS before the deadline, and then await a decision.
What is the duration of the BSc Theoretical Physics programme?
+
The BSc Theoretical Physics programme is a three-year degree. Students also have the option to undertake a year abroad or a professional placement.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Please check the University of Exeter website for current international tuition fees, as they are subject to change.
What career paths can graduates pursue?
+
Graduates develop skills attractive to employers in roles such as Physicist, Data Scientist, Software Developer, Researcher, Engineer, and Analyst.
What are the estimated living costs?
+
Please check the University of Exeter website for estimated living costs, as these are approximate and subject to change.