Master the logic, rigour and proof of mathematics alongside the universal principles of physics to prepare you for a wide range of careers.

Mathematics and physics are disciplines with a natural affinity. Physics cannot be studied seriously without mathematics, and applied mathematics has its roots in the analysis of fundamental equations of physics.

This course is for you if you enjoy and excel at mathematics and want to combine that knowledge with insights into the physical world. You’ll learn about the rigour and generality of mathematics and its role in formalising empirical physical laws. You'll also develop your experimental and computational expertise and strengthen your problem-solving, analytical and critical thinking skills.

Flexibility

This course gives you the benefit of studying in two departments, deepening your knowledge and understanding of both subjects. In the first two years, you'll study core topics in mathematics and physics. In the final year, you'll carry out a substantial research project choosing from a wide range of different topics and types of project. Our wide range of final year physics and mathematics options also enable you to tailor the balance between the two subjects to meet your individual interests and preferences.

• If you want a more in-depth study experience, you could consider applying for our MSci Mathematics and Physics course.

Get involved with our research

Our courses reflect the wide range of research activities in the Department. You’ll learn about nano-engines and organic electronics, investigate quantum optics, study the properties of graphene and the importance of symmetry in theoretical physics, and explore the structure and evolution of the Universe. We bring the latest developments in physics into our teaching, and you can get involved by working with us on your own research project.

Develop your professional skills

All our courses give you experience of a range of professional skills to add to your CV, including problem-solving, communications, teamwork and research. We also have staff dedicated to supporting you in your search for a placement or a graduate job, including offering CV workshops and practice interviews.

Use specialist facilities

You’ll learn experimental and computing skills in our well-equipped teaching labs. You can carry out projects with research equipment and high-performance computers in our specialist research labs. We also have strong links to research facilities and observatories in the UK and around the world.

• Watch a tour of our new undergraduate physics labs with two of our students.

Category C

If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
• IELTS Indicator: 6.5 with 6.0 in each component
  
• TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components
• TOEFL IBT and IBT Special Home Edition: 90 overall with 21 in each component
  
• The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element
• The Pearson Test of English Academic Online (PTE Academic Online): we do not accept this qualification
• Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): 180 with no less than 169 in all elements
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): 180 with no less than 169 in all elements
• Duolingo (taken up to 1 July 2024): 120 overall with sub scores of Literacy 120, Comprehension 130, Conversation 115, Production 100
• Duolingo (taken after 1 July 2024): 120 overall with sub scores of Literacy 120, Comprehension 120, Conversation 120, Production 120
• LanguageCert SELT: B2 Communicator High Pass in both the Speaking test and the Listening, Reading, and Writing test

See the full list of accepted English qualifications.

Get ready for your future career

With the combination of an analytical approach and practical problem-solving skills, physics graduates are in strong demand by employers. You'll be able to work in a wide range of careers in physics and beyond, such as:

• R&D
• Engineering
• Finance
• IT
• Telecommunications
• Renewable energies

Many of our graduates also go on to postgraduate study in preparation for academic or industry-based research careers.

Find out more about what our graduates go on to do.

Learn more on our Physics Virtual Experience page

You can find out more about studying a physics degree at Bath by visiting our Physics Virtual Experience page to hear from staff and students in the department.