Physics with Theoretical Physics
Develop your appreciation of theoretical physics in this professionally accredited integrated Master’s course.
Develop your appreciation of theoretical physics in this professionally accredited course
Engage with mathematical methods and their application in relation to theoretical physics
Complete a substantial project exploring a topic area of your choice during your final year
Course key facts
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Qualification
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MSci
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Duration
4 years
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Start date
October 2025
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UCAS course code
F390
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Study mode
Full-time
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Fees
£9,535 per year Home
£43,300 per year Overseas
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Delivered by
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Location
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South Kensington
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Applications: places
7 : 1 (2023)
Minimum entry standard
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A*A*A (A-level)
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40 points (International Baccalaureate)
Course overview
Investigate how the principles and laws of physics underpin most science and engineering disciplines on this four-year course.
You'll develop your appreciation of physics, mathematics, computational and experimental methods over the first three years of study.
You'll then complete an additional year of Master's level study. During your final year, you'll apply your expertise to a substantial project exploring a given theoretical physics topic in depth.
Problems in physics can relate to phenomena on gigantic scales such as the cosmos, minutely small ones, and virtually any other scale in between.
This course will enhance your problem-solving skills and is particularly suited to those with a specific interest in mathematics and its application in physics.
You'll be situated in a department at the forefront of research, with teaching guided by world-leading researchers with a high level of expertise in their specific field.
You'll explore a range of topics including electromagnetism, relativity and quantum physics, and improve your mathematical skills on dedicated modules.
The third and fourth years offer you greater flexibility to specialise across a variety of optional modules, enabling you to take advantage of the department's diverse research specialisms.
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 these core modules.
Core modules
Build your laboratory and computing skills and receive training in a range of experimental techniques covering several areas of physics.
Become familiar with the key concepts of vector calculus and use them to provide a foundational introduction to electricity and magnetism.
Develop your understanding of the mathematics and physics of motion in space and time and advance your knowledge of classical mechanics.
Gain an in-depth knowledge of oscillation and waves and appreciate their importance in multiple areas of basic physics.
Further develop your understanding of several practical aspects of physics and carry out a project in either practical physics, computational physics, or a blend of the two.
Learn to think ‘like a mathematician” and understand the mathematics underlying notions of limits and infinity, with particular emphasis on the underpinnings of Calculus.
You’ll take the following core modules.
You’ll also choose one I-Explore module, and one optional module.
Core modules
Carry out experiments exploring complex physical phenomena and advance the skills developed in Year 1 laboratory and computing.
Receive a grounding in the structure of matter at the microscopic and macroscopic levels and explore thermodynamics and statistical physics.
Analyse various topics in electromagnetism (EM) and develop your knowledge of linear differential equations (DEs).
Study the formal framework of quantum mechanics and apply this knowledge to atomic physics to explain the structure and behaviour of hydrogen and more complex atoms.
Review several mathematical techniques fundamental for performing computations across physics and necessary for a proper formulation of its foundations.
Your I-Explore module offers you choices from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department.
You will be taught alongside students from other courses with options including business, management and many more.
Optional modules
Spend time in a local school, supporting teaching whilst gaining experience of the science education children experience.
Become familiar with the structure and evolution of the Sun and other stars, and learn about the key physical principles that determine the state of the planets in our own Solar System.
Understand the application of core physical concepts to the Earth system, and develop a critical, practical awareness of global environmental change.
You'll study all core modules and choose one of the project modules.
You will also choose four or five optional modules. Most of these will be theoretical optional modules.
Core modules
Examine the physics of elementary particles and nuclei, explore concepts associated with symmetries and use relativistic kinematics to calculate simple interactions.
Test your problem-solving ability using the basic principles of physics before applying them to unfamiliar situations.
Cover the fundamentals of the physics of solids and explore how the properties of solids are determined by microscopic physics.
Explore advanced concepts in classical physics and build your appreciation of the role played by symmetries in fundamental physics.
Project modules
Complete a research project that tackles an open problem in physics for which the answer is not yet known or settled.
Carry out a research investigation that places an emphasis on your ability to discern, contextualise and critically analyse the research of others.
Optional modules
Obtain a mathematically rigorous understanding of laser physics and examine the basic mechanisms of laser action and how real-world lasers operate.
Analyse a range of clinical imaging modalities and radiotherapies and understand the physical principles underlying the interactions of x-ray radiation with tissue.
Investigate the principles and practice of instrument science and use a prototyping system to build and characterise key instrument components.
Discover the broad range of physical phenomena which determine the behaviour of plasmas and the importance of collective effects.
Learn the basics of modern cosmology, and study the foundations of the Hot Big Bang theory.
Explore the fundamental concepts of shocks and gain a thorough understanding of compressible flow and its importance in supersonic motion.
Unpick the key physical theories that control the properties of different space plasmas and plasma phenomena.
Assess key laser applications and commercially important lasers and build your understanding of nonlinear optical phenomena and contemporary applications.
Examine quantum mechanics using light, atoms and their interactions, and learn how quantum optics can provide tools to develop quantum technology.
Broaden your appreciation of the optics of small metallic nanoparticles and nanoantennas.
Analyse modern information theory, from the laws of probability to the storage and transmission of (digital) information.
Develop your entrepreneurial and organisational skills and consider how to establish a technology-based enterprise that maximises your physics education.
Explore how electronic, photonic and magnetic devices work and gain insight into some of the latest research developments in nanomaterials and device physics.
Review the basic structure of an atmosphere and the climate system, and use fundamental thermodynamics to derive expressions.
Deepen your knowledge of how modern optical communications technologies operate, and explore the operations of optical fibre networks.
Theoretical optional modules
Study how the co-operative behaviour of many simple constituents can lead to the emergence of new physics, and investigate continuous phase transitions.
Explore why the 21st century could be 'the century of complexity' and examine how interactions between many small but interacting parts can lead to the emergence of dramatic results on large scales.
Acquire the mathematical techniques and conceptual background required to understand the foundations of quantum mechanics.
Build your understanding of the finite difference methods used to solve differential equations in physics.
Apply physical concepts from your earlier studies to explain the formation, existence, and appearance of astronomical objects.
Become fluent in the language of representation theory and confident in its applications to non-relativistic quantum mechanics.
Develop your understanding of general relativity (GR), Einstein's theory of gravity, and understand the new, relativistic world view of four-dimensional Lorentzian spacetime.
Discover why quantum field theory (QFT) is essential to understand nature at smallest scales and understand the use of fields to describe fundamental particle physics.
Study the “Standard Model” (SM) of particle physics and assess both its advantages and limitations.
Analyse the fundamental principles and applications of quantum information and their realisation.
Deepen your knowledge of the properties required for the Lagrangian of a field theory, and explore how symmetries are represented mathematically and reflected in physical observables.
Understand the concept of topology in condensed matter physics using examples of current interest.
You'll study all core modules.
You will also choose four or five optional modules. Most of these will be theoretical optional modules.
Core modules
Develop your communication, teamwork and leadership skills and learn how to develop a successful research proposal from initial idea to presenting a bid.
Carry out a substantial research project embedded in a research group, under the guidance of research-active staff.
The project is the most substantial element of the degree and provides first-hand insight into how scientific research operates while developing your transferable skills.
Optional modules
Learn the basics of modern cosmology, and study the foundations of the Hot Big Bang theory.
Explore the fundamental concepts of shocks and gain a thorough understanding of compressible flow and its importance in supersonic motion.
Unpick the key physical theories that control the properties of different space plasmas and plasma phenomena.
Assess key laser applications and commercially important lasers and build your understanding of nonlinear optical phenomena and contemporary applications.
Examine quantum mechanics using light, atoms and their interactions, and learn how quantum optics can provide tools to develop quantum technology.
Broaden your appreciation of the optics of small metallic nanoparticles and nanoantennas.
Analyse modern information theory, from the laws of probability to the storage and transmission of (digital) information.
Develop your entrepreneurial and organisational skills and consider how to establish a technology-based enterprise that maximises your physics education.
Explore how electronic, photonic and magnetic devices work and gain insight into some of the latest research developments in nanomaterials and device physics.
Review the basic structure of an atmosphere and the climate system, and use fundamental thermodynamics to derive expressions.
Deepen your knowledge of how modern optical communications technologies operate, and explore the operations of optical fibre networks.
Theoretical optional modules
Discover why quantum field theory (QFT) is essential to understand nature at smallest scales and understand the use of fields to describe fundamental particle physics.
Study the “Standard Model” (SM) of particle physics and assess both its advantages and limitations.
Develop your understanding of general relativity (GR), Einstein's theory of gravity, and understand the new, relativistic world view of four-dimensional Lorentzian spacetime.
Analyse the fundamental principles and applications of quantum information and their realisation.
Deepen your knowledge of the properties required for the Lagrangian of a field theory, and explore how symmetries are represented mathematically and reflected in physical observables.
Understand the concept of topology in condensed matter physics using examples of current interest.
Professional accreditation
This degree is professionally accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).
With a professionally accredited degree, you’ll be able to demonstrate to employers that you have achieved an industry-recognised standard of competency. Professional accreditation also provides international recognition of your qualifications, which you can use to launch a career abroad.
Our MSci Physics courses also fully satisfy the academic requirements for professional registration as a Chartered Physicist (CPhys). This is a highly respected qualification earned by professionals working in physics, and can help you to enhance your career prospects and earning potential.
Our accreditation agreement with the Institute of Physics is renewed every five years. The current accreditation agreement was recently renewed through 2027.
Associateship
In addition to your degree, you’ll receive the Associateship of the Royal College of Science (ARCS) upon completion of this course. This associateship is awarded by one of our historic constituent Colleges.
Teaching and assessment
Balance of teaching and learning
Key
- Lectures, tutorials and laboratory work
- Independent study
- Research project
Years 1 & 2
- 50% Lectures, tutorials and laboratory work
- 50% Independent study
- 0% Research project
Year 3
- 17% Lectures, tutorials and laboratory work
- 83% Independent study
- 0% Research project
Year 4
- 8% Lectures, tutorials and laboratory work
- 52% Independent study
- 40% Research project
Teaching and learning methods
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Lectures
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Tutorials
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Laboratory classes
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Computing labs
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Office hours
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Project work
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Virtual learning environment
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Independent learning
Balance of assessment
Key
- Coursework
- Practical
- Written examination
Year 1
- 25% Coursework
- 15% Practical
- 60% Written examination
Year 2
- 20% Coursework
- 10% Practical
- 70% Written examination
Year 3
- 15% Coursework
- 5% Practical
- 80% Written examination
Year 4
- 35% Coursework
- 15% Practical
- 50% Written examination
Assessment methods
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Computing reports and laboratory reports
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Mastery tests
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Oral presentations and assessments
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Poster presentations
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Project reports
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Progress tests and quizzes
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Written examinations
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Written problems
Entry requirements
We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.
How to apply
Apply via UCAS
You can now submit your application via UCAS Hub. There you can add this course as one of your choices and track your application.
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
Admissions test (ESAT)
To be eligible for selection for this course for 2025 entry, you must sit the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) as part of the application process.
Registration is now open for the January ESAT test sitting.
This is your last opportunity to sit the test for 2025 entry. Registration closes online on 23 December 2024 (21 November 2024 for candidates requiring access arrangements).
About ESAT
- Computer-based, multiple-choice test which you must sit in a Pearson VUE test centre.
- Create a UAT-UK account with Pearson VUE to book a test.
For this course, you need to book and sit the following three ESAT modules:
- Module 1 – Mathematics 1
- Module 2 – Mathematics 2
- Module 3 – Physics
Key test deadlines
October sitting (15 and 16 October 2024): Registration is now closed
January sitting (7 and 8 January 2025): Register online from 24 October to 23 December 2024 (candidates requiring access arrangements must register by 21 November 2024)
Take the test just once as only your first score will count.
Test fee bursary
Applications are open for the UAT-UK bursary, which covers the full-test fee for candidates in financial need who are permanently living in the UK and planning to take the test at a UK test centre.
Full details of eligibility criteria and how to apply are available on the UAT-UK website.
Access arrangements
Access arrangements, for example, extra time or rest breaks, are available for students with learning difficulties, disabilities, and other medical conditions.
If this applies to you, you need to notify UAT-UK of your requirements before booking your test in one of Pearson VUE’s global network of test centres.
Once your access arrangements have been confirmed, you will be able to book your test online.
Assessing your application
Admissions Tutors consider all the evidence available during our rigorous selection process and the College flags key information providing assessors with a more complete picture of the educational and social circumstances relevant to the applicant. Some applicants may be set lower offers and some more challenging ones.
Unless you are from an exempt nationality, you will need an ATAS certificate to obtain your visa and study this course.
Nationals from the following countries are exempt: Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, USA and EEA members.
Use this information when applying for an ATAS certificate to study this course:
- CAH code: CAH07-01-01
- Descriptor: Physics
- Supervisor name: Professor Michele Dougherty
Get guidance and support for obtaining an ATAS certificate.
The high level of shared content in the first two years of our Physics degrees means that transfer to another degree within the Department is usually possible in the first two years.
- To transfer onto the BSc or MSci with Theoretical Physics, you must take the appropriate mathematics module(s).
- Transfer onto the Year Abroad degree must be done at the very start of your first year.
Please note there is no benefit in applying to multiple courses within the Department of Physics, and you should only apply to one course from this department.
If you are made an offer, you will have the opportunity to discuss your choice of degree and the potential to transfer on to another degree within the department.
If you are an international student, transferring to a different course could have an impact on your student visa.
Please visit our International Student Support webpage for further information.
Year abroad
Language requirement
Teaching is in the language of your host country in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, so you will need to reach an acceptable proficiency in the relevant language before you go. Free language classes are available at the College to help you prepare.
Availability
There are limited places available on the Year Abroad programme, which means that competition for selection is strong and a placement cannot be guaranteed.
Normally, only students with marks of 60% or above will be eligible for placements in France and Germany. Only students with marks of 70% or above will be eligible for placements in Singapore and the USA.
Please note the list of universities located abroad that the Department currently has partnerships with is illustrative.
Partnerships with universities are subject to continuous review and individual partnerships may or may not be renewed.
Tuition fees
Home fee
2025 entry
£9,535 per year
Important update for 2025 entry
The UK government has announced that, starting in April 2025, maximum tuition fees for Home undergraduate students in England will increase from £9,250 per year to £9,535. Find out more.
Your fee is based on the year you enter the university, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.
Find out more about our tuition fees payment terms, including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.
Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out how we assess your fee status.
If you're a Home student, you can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the UK government to cover the entire cost of tuition for every year of your course.
The loan is paid directly to the university.
You will start repaying it only after you leave your course, have a job, and are earning above a certain amount.
Once the repayments start, the amount you pay each month depends on how much you earn, not on how much you owe in total.
Home students can apply for a means-tested Maintenance Loan to help with their living costs.
In November 2024, the UK government announced a 3.1% increase in English Maintenance Loans for 2025-26.
How you apply for student finance depends on whether you have studied before and where you’re from or normally live. Find out more on the UK government's website.
The Imperial Bursary is available to all Home undergraduate students with a household income below £70,000 per year.
The amount awarded is based on your household income, with up to £5,000/year available for students from the lowest income households.
It's money which you don't need to pay back, and it's paid on top of any government funding you may also receive.
It is available for each year of your course, as long as your annual household income remains below £70,000.
Overseas fee
2025 entry
£43,300 per year
Your fee is based on the year you enter the university, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.
Find out more about our tuition fees payment terms, including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.
Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out how we assess your fee status.
How will studying at Imperial help my career?
97% Of Imperial Physics graduates in work or further study*
- 97% Of Imperial Physics graduates in work or further study*
- 3%
92% Of Imperial Physics graduates in highly skilled work or further study*
- 92% Of Imperial Physics graduates in highly skilled work or further study*
- 8%
*2021-22 graduate outcomes data, published by HESA in 2024
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Improve your career prospects by developing a broad range of professional skills.
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Approximately half of Imperial students also pursue MSc or PhD degrees.
Many Imperial graduates move into traditional technical jobs because of their analytical and problem-solving skills.
Oil and gas, telecommunications, business consultancy, banking, and finance are among them.
Other potential career prospects include the civil service, cyber risk modelling, the energy industry, and the automotive industry.
Testimonials
Further links
Contact the department
- Telephone: +44 (0)20 7594 7513
- Email: ph.admissions@imperial.ac.uk
Visit the Department of Physics website
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Request info
Learn more about studying at Imperial. Receive useful information about our life in our undergraduate community and download our latest Study Guide.
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Events, tasters and talks
Meet us and find out more about studying at Imperial.
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Course data
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.
You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.
Programme specifications