Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces MSc

  • Postgraduate taught
  • MSc

Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces

Gain the skills you need to undertake future PhD study in fundamental theoretical physics.

Gain the skills you need to undertake future PhD study in fundamental theoretical physics

Benefit from world leading research in some of the most exciting areas of theoretical physics study.

Flexible learning options allow you to study full-time or part-time

Course key facts

  • Qualification

    • MSc

  • Duration

    1 year, 2 years

  • Start date

    September 2025

  • Study mode

    Full-time, Part-time

  • Fees

    • £16,000 Home

    • £37,000 Overseas

  • Delivered by

  • Location

    • South Kensington

Minimum entry standard

  • First class Honours in physics or mathematics with theoretical physics options

View full entry requirements

Course overview

Gain the skills and knowledge you need to pursue a PhD in fundamental theoretical physics. This course bridges the gap between undergraduate physics and maths, and the research frontier.

During your studies, you'll acquire a unique insight into topics including the unification of fundamental forces, the early universe, quantum gravity and quantum field theory.

This course is designed to start your research career and was founded by the Theoretical Physics Group at Imperial College London. This group is internationally renowned for its world leading research and established by Nobel Laureate Abdus Salam.

Your studies will conclude with a summer working on a supervised project in a specialist area. This can involve original research that expands on your existing knowledge of theoretical physics and leads to the writing of a dissertation.

Structure

This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.

Find out more about potential course changes.

Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.

You’ll study four core modules.

If you studied Quantum Field Theory and Unification modules as an undergraduate, you will need to replace these modules with alternative options.

 

Core modules

You’ll also choose four optional modules.

Optional modules

You will spend the summer working on a supervised project in a specialist area. This can involve original research and leads to the writing of a dissertation.

During your project, you’ll design and undertake a theoretical analysis and prepare assessed technical reports and presentations.

Teaching and assessment

Balance of teaching and learning

Key

  • Lectures, problem classes and seminars
  • Independent study

  • 20% Lectures, problem classes and seminars
  • 80% Independent study

Teaching and learning methods

  • Blackboard virtual learning environment
    Virtual learning environment
  • Individual research project
    Independent research project
  • Person at lectern giving speech
    Lectures
  • Problem classes

Assessment methods

  • Papers from a written report
    Reports
  • A person completing a written exam
    Written examinations

Entry requirements

We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.

How to apply

Apply online

You can submit one application form per year of entry. You can choose up to two courses.

Application deadlines – Round 1 closes on Thursday 16 January 2025

Tuition fees

Home fee

Full-time

£16,000

Part-time

£8,000per year

Overseas fee

Full-time

£37,000

Part-time

£18,500per year

How will studying at Imperial help my career?

Obtain a solid grounding in fundamental theoretical physics for further PhD study.

Physics graduates at Imperial are highly sought after in a variety of employment sectors.

Common career paths for Physics graduates include professional roles in the technology industry, research and development, and academic research.

Other potential career paths include space agencies and healthcare/medical physics.

Terms and conditions

There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.

Read our terms and conditions

You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.

Programme specifications