Mathematics is the fundamental language of physics. Physics uses maths to make predictions, and many mathematical areas have been developed to solve physical problems. This degree explores mathematical topics and how they appear throughout theoretical physics. You'll study particle physics, astrophysics and quantum field theory. You’ll graduate with technical skills sought by employers across science, industry and research. Southampton is ranked 11th in the UK for Mathematics (Guardian University Guide 2021).
This course is run by the School of Mathematical Sciences. It's taught jointly by Mathematical Sciences and Physics and Astronomy, through the STAG (Southampton, Theory, Astronomy and Gravitation) research centre. STAG is a leader in the latest research in theoretical particle physics, astronomy, general relativity and string theory.
The mathematical part of this course begins with the fundamental areas of calculus, linear algebra, vector calculus and partial differential equations.
The physics part includes the key ideas of relativity, cosmology and astrophysics, applications of laser technology, atomic and particle physics, and optoelectronics.
As part of this course you’ll:
- Identify the key areas of physics theory relevant to a given problem
- Construct mathematical models for physical situations
- Choose to specialise in areas such as particle physics, astrophysics or condensed matter
- Use our student centre, a dedicated learning and social space for maths students
- Use mathematical and computational packages such as Python and the statistics package 'R'
The programme will take you to the frontier of knowledge in this exciting field, allowing you to study as an undergraduate, material that would normally be taught at MSc level.
Southampton mathematics graduates are in great demand. Many employers look for graduates with strong problem-solving skills who can develop sound analytical arguments. Depending on your degree specialism, a wide range of career destinations are available including mathematician, statistician, actuary and financial analyst. Our graduates are employed by organisations including Deloitte, British Airways, IBM, Amazon UK and Formula 1 racing teams.
Course Details - Modules
You will take both physics and mathematics modules throughout your degree, studying roughly the same number of each. In the first two years you will be taught the fundamentals of modern mathematical physics, giving you a solid base for the third and fourth years. Students will emerge with a strong understanding of the forces of nature, quantum theory, and General Relativity, and may specialise in particle physics, astrophysics, condensed matter theory or the formal elements of mathematical physics. The course includes a final year mathematical project that may be taken across any of these strands.
Course Details – Assessment Method
You will be assessed in a variety of ways such as coursework, tests and exams, enabling you to demonstrate your strengths and show what you have learnt.
Course Details – Professional Bodies
Professional Bodies are not listed for this Course.
How to Apply
26 January This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application Codes
Course code:
FF34
Institution code:
S27
Campus Name:
Main Site - Highfield Campus
Campus code:
Points of Entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
Year 1
Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry (Year 2 and Beyond)
Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry are not listed for this Course.
International applicants
Standard Qualification Requirements
English Language proficiency for international students: All programmes at the University of Southampton are taught and assessed in the medium of English (other than those in modern foreign languages). Therefore, all applicants must demonstrate they possess at least a minimum standard of English language proficiency. For more information on the University of Southampton’s English Language entry requirements, please see the English Language Proficiency webpage at http://www.southampton.ac.uk/studentadmin/admissions/admissions-policies/language.page.
AQA Tech Levels: The University accepts the new AQA Tech Level qualification, which must be offered in combination with at least one A Level. For degrees in Engineering, Computing and related subjects, the A Level must be in Mathematics and the units M1 and M2 must be taken.
We welcome applicants with other qualifications eg. European Baccalaureate, Foundation Programmes. You will be expected to attain an equivalent standard to the A level applicant.
For more details on the suitability of your qualifications or foundation programme please contact the Admissions Team at AdmissionsUG.SS@soton.ac.uk
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
