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MSci

MSci Mathematics and Physics

Taught by discipline experts and recognised by the Institute of Physics, this course brings together the closely linked fields of mathematics and physics, while offering opportunities to engage with the cutting-edge research being carried out in both departments.

How to apply Apply via UCAS

Course details

Start date

Degree Type

MSci

UCAS Code

G430

Course length

4 years full-time

Typical offer

A*AA

Tuition Fees

  • Home (Full-time): per year
  • Overseas (Full-time): per year

Overview

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.

Course details

Start date

Degree Type

MSci

UCAS Code

G430

Course length

4 years full-time

Typical offer

A*AA

Tuition Fees

  • Home (Full-time): per year
  • Overseas (Full-time): per year

What you'll study

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.

Core modules

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Core modules

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • In recent years optional modules have included: AlgebraNumerical AnalysisStars and GalaxiesLaboratory Skills and Electronics.

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

  • In recent years optional modules have included: AnalysisDifferential GeometryFluid MechanicsSolitonsTopologyQuantum ComputingGeometry of Mathematical PhysicsFoundations of Physics BComputing ProjectModern Atomic and Optical PhysicsTeam ProjectPlanets and CosmologyScience Enterprise.

Core modules

  • Physics

    Either 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

  • In recent years optional modules have included: General RelativityAdvanced Quantum TheorySuperstringsGeophysical and Astrophysical FluidsStatistical MechanicsAdvanced Theoretical PhysicsAtoms, Lasers and QubitsParticle TheoryTheoretical Astrophysics.

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

Fees & Funding

Choose which fees you want to see:

Home / Island students

per year

International / EU Students

per year

Home / Island students

Part Time - per year

International / EU Students

Part Time - per year

The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).

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Department Information

  • 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.

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    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.

    • Learning resources

      You will also benefit from excellent IT facilities including Learn Ultra, Durham’s virtual learning environment. You will have access to up to 1.6 million printed books, 25,000 eJournals and over 850,000 eBooks in the main library.

    • Facilities

      Facilities will depend on the subject specialism but include laboratories, libraries, project spaces, lecture theatres, study and networking spaces as well as shared social spaces.

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Career Opportunities

Of those UK/EU students who graduated in 2022/23:

89%

are in work and/or further study.

96%

in highly skilled employment.

£34,400

is the average salary.

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

Employability

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.

More Information

The key characteristics of the Natural Sciences degree are choice, flexibility and depth.

Learn more about why the department of Natural Sciences is a great place to study

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