This four-year programme offers an additional year of study on top of the Theoretical Physics BSc, during which students can specialise further by taking advanced optional modules and undertaking a research project.

Degree benefits

• A theoretical physics degree from UCL is a strong asset across the whole range of careers where scientific skills are required, from accountancy to astrophysics, and computing to cryogenics.

• The programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and includes the very latest developments and discoveries in the field, based on our highly rated research.

• Ranked 4th in the UK (Times Higher Education Rankings by subject 2021) you will be taught by lecturers who are experts in a wide range of physics-related fields.

• The wide range of optional modules enables you to develop your interests both within and outside physics, giving you problem solving and communication skills, along with a deep knowledge base to offer potential employers.

Your learning

Teaching is delivered through lectures, laboratory (and as appropriate, observatory) practical sessions, and supervised problem-solving tutorials. These tutorials are designed to deal with lecture-based questions, enlarge on topics addressed in lectures, and allow clarification and in-depth discussion of new concepts.

Assessment

Assessment will normally involve end-of-year examinations, and an element of assessed coursework. Practical work you will be continuously assessed.

Careers

Your scientific training will equip you with an understanding of mathematics, and of physical principles and techniques, as well as transferable skills in analysis, rational argument and innovative problem solving. Surveys by the Institute of Physics indicate that physicists' versatility is welcomed by a wider range of professions than any other subject.

Around half our graduates choose to pursue further study for an MSc or PhD. A PhD opens up the possibility of an academic or research career in a university or research institute. Alternatively, like many of our graduates, you may consider employment in research, design, development, computing, finance, marketing and teaching, among others.