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- UCAS course code
- F345
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Overview
- Degree awarded
- BSc
- Duration
- 3 years
- Typical A-level offer
-
A*A*A (to include A* in Physics and Mathematics). We would normally require a pass in the Practical Assessment in science A-Levels.
- Typical contextual A-level offer
-
A*AA (to include Physics and Maths with A*A in any order). We would normally require a pass in the Practical Assessment in Science A Levels.
Find out more about contextual admissions. - Refugee/care-experienced offer
-
Applicants who have been in local authority care for more than three months or have refugee status may be eligible for an offer two grades below the standard requirements.Find out more about contextual admissions.
- Typical International Baccalaureate offer
-
38 points overall with 7,7,6 at Higher Level, including 7 in Physics and Mathematics.
- Number of places/applicants
- For entry in September 2020 there were 330 places/1800 applicants.
- How to apply
- Apply through UCAS .
- UCAS course code
- F345
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Course overview
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- Join a physics Department ranked in the top 15 in the world, consistently, since 2011 (the Academic Ranking of World Universities).
- Develop at a Department ranked 1st in England for physics and astronomy (Academic Ranking of World Universities 2019), and associated with no fewer than 13 Nobel Prize winners.
- Delve into the more mathematical and theoretical aspects of physics and enjoy plenty of flexibility in a broad undergraduate curriculum.
- Be part of a Department with a consistently high record of student satisfaction, averaging 93% over ten years of the National Student Survey.
Open days
The University holds undergraduate open days regularly, giving you the opportunity to find out more about our courses, the support we offer, and our facilities. Attending an open day is a great way to find out what studying at Manchester is all about. Find out about our upcoming open days .
View the recent undergraduate virtual open week recorded sessions.
Fees
Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2022 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £27,000 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.
Policy on additional costs
All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).
Scholarships/sponsorships
The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.
For information about scholarships and bursaries please visit our undergraduate student finance pages and our Department funding pages .Contact details
- Department
- Department of Physics & Astronomy
- Contact name
- Admissions Office
- Telephone
- +44 (0) 161 543 4021
- ug.physics@manchester.ac.uk
- Website
- https://www.physics.manchester.ac.uk/
- School/Faculty overview
-
Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality. Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .
Courses in related subject areas
Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.
Compare this course
Entry requirements
A-level
Contextual offer
AS-level
Unit grade information
The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available. Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application. Unit grades will not normally form part of an offer conditions.
GCSE
Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including acceptable levels of Literacy and Numeracy, equivalent to at least Grade C or 4 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language and Mathematics. GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.
International Baccalaureate
Other international entry requirements
Scottish requirements
Welsh Baccalaureate
European Baccalaureate
AQA Baccalaureate
Foundation year
The University recognises a number of foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme:
Applicants completing the INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester international foundation programme in are required to achieve A*A*A with grade A* in Physics and Mathematics and an EAP score of Grade C.
Applicants completing the NCUK International Foundation year are required to achieve A*A*A with grade A* in Physics and Mathematics and an EAP score of Grade C.
Applicants studying other Foundation programmes should contact the academic School to check if their qualification is recognised for entry to this programme and for specific entry requirements.
Pearson BTEC qualifications
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma
We require DDD plus grades A*A* in A-Level Physics and Mathematics.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma
We require DD plus grades A*A* in A-Level Physics and Mathematics.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma
We require DD plus grades A*A* in A-Level Physics and Mathematics.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
We require D plus grades A*A* in A-Level Physics and Mathematics.
OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications
OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma
We require DDD plus grades A*A* in A-Level Physics and Mathematics.
Cambridge Technical Diploma
We require DD plus grades A*A* in A-Level Physics and Mathematics.
Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma
We require D plus grades A*A* in A-Level Physics and Mathematics.
Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate
We require D plus grades A*A* in A-Level Physics and Mathematics.
Access to HE Diploma
Given that it is not possible to meet our published offer conditions within an Access course, we would not recommend an Access course as the best way of preparing for our courses. However, we would look very carefully at any applications from exceptional Access students who were on track to gain the AAA equivalent (45 credits at level 3 awarded at distinction). We would treat any such exceptional students on a case-by-case basis, looking very carefully at past academic history and the academic reference; promising candidates would be invited to interview to add supplementary information. A decision would be made about entry holistically on the basis of all information (including details of the course undertaken) and would usually be conditional on the above standard.
Cambridge Pre-U
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Core Maths
The University recognises the value of Level 3 Core Mathematics qualifications. Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer we make. Where a course requires applicants to have at least grade 6/B or higher in GCSE Mathematics we would be likely to consider a pass in Core Mathematics at a minimum grade C or B as an alternative way to fulfil this requirement. Core Mathematics will not be accepted in lieu of an A Level.
Home-schooled applicants
If you are a student who has followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home; your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course for which you are applying. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the specified academic entry requirements of the course. We will also require a reference from somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. If you are a home schooled student and would like further information or advice please contact the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
Non-standard educational routes
Mature students are some of our most well-equipped learners, bringing skills and attributes gained from work, family and other life experiences. Students come from a whole array of backgrounds, study every kind of course, undertake full-time and part-time learning and are motivated by career intentions as well as personal interest. There is no such thing as a typical mature student at Manchester. The application process is the same as for other prospective undergraduates. If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the Department of Physics and Astronomy.
Further information for mature students can be found here .
English language
All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:
- GCSE/iGCSE English Language grade 4/C
- IELTS 6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in each subtest)
- An acceptable equivalent qualification.
Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the the department of Physics and Astronomy for clarification.
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK and the EU must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language in order to be granted a UK visa (Tier 4 visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. This level is often referred to as the 'B2 level'.
Additionally, our individual departments may ask for specific English Language proficiency levels that are necessary for their academic programmes. In most cases these requirements are likely to be higher than the B2 level. Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found here .
English language test validity
Application and selection
How to apply
Advice to applicants
Skills, knowledge, abilities, interests
Interview requirements
Promising applicants based in the UK and the EU will be invited to attend one of our UCAS visit days, to meet staff and current students, take part in an academic interview and find out what it's like to be a student here.
Due to the current situation, interviews will be held online.
Returning to education
Overseas (non-UK) applicants
Deferrals
Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications
Policy for applicants who take their examinations in more than one sitting
Re-applications
Transfers
Course details
Course description
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Explore the more mathematical and theoretical aspects of physics through our Physics with Theoretical Physics BSc course.
We will provide you with a solid grounding in all aspects of physics - both theoretical and experimental - with lectures and project work forming a significant portion of the theoretical physics component.
In the first two years you will study the topics of advanced mechanics, advanced mathematics and computational physics, while in the third year you will have the opportunity to study, in greater depth, the topics that are of particular interest to you. Examples include quantum theory, electrodynamics and general relativity.Our Department of Physics and Astronomy is renowned around the world, and our facilities are second to none. Working with leading academics, you will be well placed to progress along your physics journey from here.
Aims
- You will delve deep into all aspects of physics - both theoretical and experimental.
- We will teach you mostly via lecture courses and project work to help you really get to grips with theoretical physics.
- You will have the opportunity to study the topics that interest you most in the third year of the course.
Special features
A range of study options
You can extend your degree by a year to undertake an integrated master's: at the beginning of your third year there is the possibility of transferring to the four-year MPhys course.
Outstanding reputation
The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Manchester has an excellent international reputation, and a qualification from us can be your passport to a successful career anywhere in the world.
Teaching and learning
Coursework and assessment
Course unit details
You can find out more information about the course units included in your chosen degree programme here
Course content for year 1
Course units for year 1
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Mathematics 1 | PHYS10071 | 10 | Mandatory |
Dynamics | PHYS10101 | 10 | Mandatory |
Quantum Physics and Relativity | PHYS10121 | 10 | Mandatory |
Introduction to Astrophysics and Cosmology | PHYS10191 | 10 | Mandatory |
Year 1 Lab Work (One Semester) | PHYS10280 | 10 | Mandatory |
Vibrations & Waves | PHYS10302 | 10 | Mandatory |
Electricity & Magnetism | PHYS10342 | 10 | Mandatory |
Properties of Matter | PHYS10352 | 10 | Mandatory |
Mathematics 2 | PHYS10372 | 10 | Mandatory |
Random Processes in Physics | PHYS10471 | 10 | Mandatory |
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Course content for year 2
Course units for year 2
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics | PHYS20101 | 10 | Mandatory |
Electromagnetism | PHYS20141 | 10 | Mandatory |
Introduction to Programming for Physicists | PHYS20161 | 10 | Mandatory |
Mathematics of Waves and Fields | PHYS20171 | 10 | Mandatory |
Fundamentals of Solid State Physics | PHYS20252 | 10 | Mandatory |
Year 2 Lab Work (One Semester) | PHYS20280 | 10 | Mandatory |
Wave Optics | PHYS20312 | 10 | Mandatory |
Statistical Mechanics | PHYS20352 | 10 | Mandatory |
Lagrangian Dynamics | PHYS20401 | 10 | Mandatory |
Complex Variables and Vector Spaces | PHYS20672 | 10 | Mandatory |
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Course content for year 3
Course units for year 3
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Introduction to Nuclear and Particle Physics | PHYS30121 | 10 | Mandatory |
Mathematical Fundamentals of Quantum Mechanics | PHYS30201 | 10 | Mandatory |
Yr 3 Physics Laboratory (One block) | PHYS30280 | 10 | Mandatory |
Mathematical Methods for Physics | PHYS30672 | 10 | Mandatory |
BSc dissertation | PHYS30880 | 10 | Mandatory |
Quantum Computing | COMP39112 | 10 | Optional |
Climate and Energy: Past, Present and Future | EART36002 | 10 | Optional |
Meteorology and Atmospheric Physics | EART39102 | 10 | Optional |
Information visions: past, present and future | HSTM20282 | 10 | Optional |
The Nuclear Age: Global Nuclear Threats from Hiroshima to Today | HSTM31212 | 10 | Optional |
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Scholarships and bursaries
The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances.
For information about scholarships and bursaries please visit our undergraduate student finance pages and our Department funding pages .
What our students say
Find out what it's like to study at Manchester by visiting the Department of Physics and Astronomy blog .
Facilities


Make the most of a fantastic array of facilities that rival those of leading Departments across the world. They include the world-famous Jodrell Bank Observatory and a new £10 million extension to our Schuster Laboratory.
The University of Manchester also offers extensive library and online services , helping you get the most out of your studies.
Disability support
Careers
Career opportunities

I attended some career fairs, I really recommend these.
You can speak to people who have been through the graduate schemes and get real, useful advice.
Ellen Leahy / Big Data Analyst for Apple

Day to day, I'm a full stack software engineer - the person that takes the architect's solution and builds it.
My team in particular focuses on building applications around emerging technologies like blockchain and quantum computing. All of my computing experience was from uni.
Wei Ann Heng / Software Engineer for Accenture
Your BSc Physics with Theoretical Physics qualification from The University of Manchester will open up a whole world of opportunity.
In learning how to be a physicist you are a taught a set of highly valued skills:
- Rigorous and robust evidence-based reasoning
- How to analyse and assess data, and drawing meaning from it
- High degree of numeracy and mathematical ability
- Communication and team-working skills
This will prepare you for a broad range of careers, not just in physics but in other areas that need the in-demand skills you will learn.
The University of Manchester is one of the most targeted universities in the country by employers*. 90% of graduates from this course are in work or further studies 15 months after graduating**.
Plus, our award-winning careers services will support you on your journey to finding the right career path for you.
Our graduates often go on to do research in astrophysics or other branches of physics, including:
- Scientist/Engineer for Tech Company
- Finance/Banking/Management
- Information Technology
- Research scientist
- Medical Physics
- Scientific Publishing
- Teaching
- Science-related careers in the Civil Service
Below are just some of the employers that our graduates have gone on to work for:
- BAE Systems
- RAF
- Meteorological Office
- NHS
- Bank of England
- Deutsche Bank
- Merril Lynch
You can read more about the experiences our students and graduates have had on the Department of Physics blog.