Mathematical Physics (MMath)

This programme is made up of:

• core and compulsory mathematics and physics modules in the first and second years

• more flexibility to choose optional modules in specialist areas in the third and fourth years

You don't need to select your modules when you apply. Your academic tutor will help you to customise your course.

Year 1 overview

In your first year, you'll cover the fundamentals of maths such as linear algebra. You'll discover linear maps on vector spaces, which are the foundation for a large area of mathematics and form the basic language of the physical sciences. You'll also study calculus, which will provide a bridge between A level mathematics and university mathematics.

Your core physical modules look at key topics such as motion and relativity or electricity and magnetism. Along with other foundational knowledge, you'll learn about optics, which will form a base for further study of optics, wave physics and quantum physics.

Year 2 overview

Core modules continue to build your foundational knowledge. For example, you'll study:

• analysis

• partial differential equations

• wave and quantum physics

• classical and statistical mechanics

Year 3 overview

In your third year, you’ll select from a wide range of options across both mathematics and physics. This gives you the freedom to either specialise in a field or broaden your studies. You could bring together topics such as the dynamics of galaxies and the mathematics of black holes. You could also choose to combine a study of particle physics with the mathematics of Schrodinger’s equation.

There are also options to write a dissertation, which your supervisor will support through weekly meetings, or study diverse topics like atomic physics, group theory and mathematical biology.

Year 4 overview

In the fourth year, your studies will give you an appreciation of modern research topics in mathematical physics. You’ll build a level of knowledge and specialism that will prepare you for a career in mathematics or physics.

You’ll also undertake an individually supervised year-long dissertation, on a topic of your choice, from mathematics or theoretical physics.

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

The learning activities for this course include the following:

• lectures
• classes and tutorials
• coursework
• individual and group projects
• independent learning (studying on your own)

How you'll spend your course time:

Academic support

You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.

Course leader

Nils Andersson is the course leader.

Maths and physics both place an emphasis on problem-solving, analytical argument and other transferable skills that will qualify you to work in a range of industries.

Employability is an essential part of our maths courses, ensuring you are equipped for a successful postgraduate career or further study.

Our mathematical physics degree graduates have gone on to work as:

• actuaries

• economists

• statisticians

• programmers

• software developers

• accountants

• business analysts

• financial analysts

• financial managers

The University’s Excel Internship Programme can help you find a paid work placement during the Easter or summer vacation.

Careers services at Southampton

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes

• CV and interview skills and workshops

• networking events

• careers fairs attended by top employers

• a wealth of volunteering opportunities

• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.

Work in industry

You’ll have the opportunity to take a paid year in employment between your second and third year.

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK/EU students pay £9,250.
• International students pay £17,560.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.

Find out how to:

• pay your tuition fees

• calculate your student finances

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:

• accommodation costs

• living costs

• budgeting advice

Bursaries, scholarships and other funding

If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.

If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.

Get in touch for advice about student money matters.

Scholarships and grants

You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.

We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Support during your course

The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.

Funding for international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

When you apply use:

• UCAS course code: FF34
• UCAS institution code: S27

Apply for 2020 entry now

What happens after you apply?

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

• predicted grades
• academic achievements
• personal statement
• academic reference

We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.