Theoretical Physics

This integrated Master’s degree is the first step towards Chartered Physicist status. It will suit those looking for an accredited course that focuses on the mathematical and theoretical aspects of physics. Many graduates progress to higher level education followed by careers in research or teaching. For others, the course has opened the door to a range of professions where advanced analytic, numeric or computational skills are in demand. 

Undergraduate physics degrees at Durham offer a high level of flexibility. We offer four Institute of Physics accredited courses – MPhys qualifications in Physics, Physics and Astronomy, and Theoretical Physics and the three-year BSc in Physics – which follow the same core curriculum in Year 1.

Subject to the optional modules chosen, it is possible to switch to one of the other courses until the end of the second year. You can also apply for a one-year work placement or study abroad opportunity with one of our partner organisations, increasing the course from four years to five or substituting the existing Year 3.

The first year lays the foundation in physics theory, mathematical skills and laboratory skills that you will need to tackle more complex content later in the course. As you progress through the course the level of theoretical content increases, extending your knowledge in areas such as electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, particle theory and advanced mathematical theory.

In Years 3 and 4 the curriculum is more closely aligned to real-world issues through a combination of theory and project work, including a final-year project on a topic at the forefront of developments in one of our research institutes.

Course structure

Year 1

Core modules:

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.

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. 

In recent years, optional modules have included:

• Single Mathematics
• Linear Algebra
• Calculus.

Please note: it is compulsory to study two Maths modules (as background mathematical knowledge for the Foundations module).

Year 2

Core modules:

Foundations of Physics A 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 B develops your knowledge of thermodynamics, condensed matter physics and optics.

Mathematical Methods in Physics provides the necessary mathematical knowledge and understanding to successfully tackle the Foundations of Physics modules. It covers vectors, vector integral and vector differential calculus, multivariable calculus and orthogonal curvilinear coordinates, Fourier analysis, orthogonal functions, the use of matrices, and the mathematical tools for solving ordinary and partial differential equations occurring in a variety of physical problems.

Theoretical Physics provides a working knowledge of classical mechanics and complements the quantum mechanics content of the module Foundations of Physics A. In this module you will explore the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of classical mechanics and the rotational motion of a rigid body. You will learn to describe elements of quantum mechanics in a rigorous mathematical way and to manipulate them at the operator level.

Laboratory Skills and Electronics builds lab-based skills, such as experiment planning, data analysis, scientific communication and specific practical skills. It aims to teach electronics as a theoretical and a practical subject, to teach the techniques of computational physics and numerical methods and to provide experience of a research-led investigation in physics in preparation for post-university life.

In recent years, optional modules have included:

• Stars and Galaxies
• Physics in Society

Year 3

Core modules:

Foundations of Physics A 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.

Foundations of Physics B includes the study of statistical physics and condensed matter physics.

Theoretical Physics 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.

The Computing Project is designed to develop your computational and problem-solving skills. You work on advanced computational physics problems using a variety of modern computing techniques and present your findings in a project report, poster and oral presentation.

Mathematics Workshop introduces some of the mathematical tools you will need to solve a variety of physical problems. These include vectors and matrices, complex analysis, calculus of variations, and integral variations.

In recent years, optional modules have included:

• Team Project 
• Advanced Laboratory 
• Physics into Schools
• Planets and Cosmology 
• Condensed Matter Physics 
• Modern Atomic and Optical Physics.

Year 4

Core modules:

The research-based MPhys Project can be carried out individually or as part of a small group. It provides experience of work in a research environment on a topic at the forefront of developments in a branch of either physics, applied physics, theoretical physics or astronomy, and develops transferable skills for the oral and written presentation of research. The project can be carried out in one of the Department’s research groups or in collaboration with an external organisation.

Advanced Theoretical Physics provides a working knowledge of non-relativistic quantum mechanical problems. You will explore some of the modern theories of electronic structure and vibrational properties of materials including superconductivity; the quantum nature of light; and the concepts of entangled states and mixed states and their relevance in experiments.

Particle Theory will familiarise you with some of the key results of relativistic quantum mechanics and its application to simple systems; the principles of quantum field theory and the role of symmetry in modern particle physics; and the standard model of particle physics and its experimental foundations.

In recent years, optional modules have included:

• Atoms, Lasers and Qubits 
• Advanced Condensed Matter Physics 
• Advanced Astrophysics 
• Theoretical Astrophysics 
• Planets and Cosmology 
• Condensed Matter Physics 
• Modern Atomic and Optical Physics. 

Additional pathways

Students on the MPhys in Theoretical Physics can apply to be transferred onto either the ‘with Year Abroad’ or ‘with Placement’ pathway during the second year. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen you can choose to extend your course from four years to five, or substitute the existing Year 3.

Placement