MSci Physics with Theoretical Physics
Focus on theoretical physics in this professionally accredited integrated Master’s course, with more mathematical content and less emphasis on experimental work.
Key information
Award
MSci
Duration
4 years
full-time
Applications : admissions ratio
8 : 1
Based on 2021 entry data
- UCAS course code: F390
- ECTS: 240
- Start date: October 2023
- Department: Department of Physics
- Campus: South Kensington
Overview
Physics at Imperial covers a broad range of topics in both fundamental and applied physics.
This course is ideally suited to those with a specific interest in mathematics and its application, and places less emphasis on experimental work than our standard Physics courses.
You will follow a similar curriculum to the standard Physics courses for the first two years, covering key topics such as electromagnetism, relativity and quantum physics. As a Theoretical Physics student, you will take an extra mathematics module in both years in place of a physics module.
This core programme provides you with a good grounding in physics, mathematics and experimental methods, and prepares you for advanced study.
As the degree progresses you will have greater flexibility to specialise, with a wide choice of theoretical optional modules in areas such as group theory, general relativity and quantum field theory.
You will also have the opportunity to build on the BSc course with an additional year of Master's level study, and the chance to complete a substantial project on a theoretical physics topic in one of our research groups.
Many of our modules are directly linked to our research so you’ll be learning at the very cutting edge of the subject. Research in our Department has contributed to ground-breaking discoveries in many different fields, from astrophysics to quantum optics and laser science.
Laboratory and computing work
Practical work is an important part of the Physics curriculum at Imperial, and you will have access to state-of-the-art facilities as well as data collected from major experiments such as CERN.
Physics is a practical science and relies on data, so physicists need to understand how data is generated and how to analyse it. You will take laboratory classes to equip you with a wide range of skills such as using apparatus, conducting experiments, interpreting data, and presenting your results.
You will also gain a solid understanding of how to use computers as tools to help model and understand the physics of complicated phenomena. This includes using computers to make advanced calculations and analyse data, and how to use the programming language Python.
Transfer between courses
Studying Physics
The high level of shared content in the first two years of our Physics degrees means that transfer to another degree within the Department is usually possible in the first two years.
- To transfer onto the BSc or MSci with Theoretical Physics, you must take the appropriate mathematics module(s).
- Transfer onto the Year Abroad degree must be done at the very start of your first year.
Please note there is no benefit in applying to multiple courses within the Department of Physics, and you should only apply to one course from this department.
If you are made an offer, you will have the opportunity to discuss your choice of degree and the potential to transfer on to another degree within the department.
If you are an international student, transferring to a different course could have an impact on your student visa. Please visit our International Student Support webpage for further information.
Structure
Find out more about the limited circumstances in which we may need to make changes to or in relation to our courses, the type of changes we may make and how we will tell you about them.
Year 1
Core modules
- Mathematical Analysis
- Mechanics and Relativity
- Oscillations and Waves
- Practical Physics: Laboratory, Computing and Problem Solving
- Statistics of Measurement and the Summer Project
- Vector Fields, Electricity and Magnetism
Year 2
Core modules
- Advanced Practical Physics
- Differential Equations and Electromagnetism
- Mathematical Methods
- Quantum Physics
- Thermal Physics and the Structure of Matter
Optional modules
You will choose one module from below.
These modules are given as a guide to what you will be able to choose from.
- Communicating Physics
- Environmental Physics
- Suns, Stars and Planets
You will take one I-Explore module, offering you choices from a wide range of subject areas.
Year 3
Core modules
- Advanced Classical Physics
- Comprehensives
- Nuclear and Particle Physics
- Solid State Physics
Optional modules
These modules are given as a guide to what you will be able to choose from.
- Astrophysics1
- Complexity and Networks1
- Computational Physics1
- Foundations of Quantum Mechanics1
- Group Theory1
- Lasers
- Medical and Biological Imaging
- Plasma Physics
- Principles of Instrumentation
- Statistical Mechanics1
- Year 3 Project or Essay Project
You will also be able to choose a maximum of one Year 4 optional module. You may only study a module once.
1 The modules marked (1) are theoretical modules and will make up the majority of your choices
Year 4
Core modules
- MSci Project
- Research Interfaces
Optional modules
These modules are given as a guide to what you will be able to choose from.
Some of the modules listed below are available in both your third and fourth years, and you will choose different modules to those already studied in the year before.
- Advanced Particle Physics1
- Atmospheric Physics
- Concepts in Device Physics
- Cosmology
- Entrepreneurship for Physicists
- General Relativity1
- Hydrodynamics
- Information Theory
- Introduction to Plasmonics and Metamaterials
- Laser Technology
- Optical Communications Physics
- Quantum Field Theory1
- Quantum Information1
- Quantum Optics
- Quantum Theory of Matter1
- Space Physics
- Unification - The Standard Model1
1 The modules marked (1) are theoretical modules and will make up the majority of your choices
Download the programme specification [PDF] – this is the most up-to-date version available for this course. It may change for your year of entry. If/when changes to this course are approved by the College, we will update this document and the information on this course page.
I-Explore
Through I-Explore, you'll have the chance to deepen your knowledge in a brand new subject area, chosen from a huge range of for-credit modules.
All of our undergraduate courses include one module from I-Explore's wide selection. The module you choose will be fully integrated into your course's curriculum and count as credit towards your degree.
Professional accreditation
Accreditation for this degree is due to be renewed for 2022 entry, having been accredited from 2015 to 2021. The Department expects to be successful in seeking re-accreditation by the Institute of Physics (IOP).
Holders of accredited degrees can follow a route to Institute Membership and the CPhys professional qualification.
Achieving a professionally accredited degree demonstrates to employers that you have achieved an industry-recognised standard of competency. It also brings international recognition of your qualification, which is particularly useful for students preparing for a career abroad.
BSc or MSci?
As professionally accredited qualifications, our MSci Physics courses fully satisfy the academic requirement for professional registration as a Chartered Physicist (CPhys). This is a highly respected qualification earned by professionals working in physics, which can lead to higher earning potential and better career prospects.
Fully satisfying the academic requirements means that you won’t need to complete any further study on your route to gaining Chartered status after you graduate, although all CPhys applicants need to meet certain professional competence requirements.
Our BSc courses partially satisfy the academic requirements, which means that you would need to demonstrate that you had equivalent knowledge to an accredited integrated Master’s degree before you could register as a Chartered Physicist.
Our accreditation agreement with the Institute of Physics is renewed every five years, however due to Covid-19 was extended to include a sixth year for 2020-21. The current accreditation agreement is due to be renewed for students starting their studies in the 2021-22 academic year. The Department expects to be accredited into the future.
Associateship
As well as your main Imperial degree, you will also receive the award of the Associateship of the Royal College of Science (ARCS) on completion of this course.
The Royal College of Science is one of three historic Colleges that came together to form Imperial College London in 1907.
Find out more about our Associateships.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching
You will be taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, laboratory classes and computing labs. Staff office hours are also available to discuss your progress.
A group project and individual project work will provide you with a strong set of additional skills, including presentation and communication.
The expected total study time is 1,500 hours per year. While your actual contact hours may vary according to the optional modules you choose to study, the following gives an indication of how you will spend your time.
Teaching, independent study and placement hours
During the first two years, scheduled contact hours are envisaged to take up about half the time you work on the programme. This includes approximately 10-15 hours of lectures and tutorials and 6 hours of laboratory work per week.
The rest of the time is typically spent on independent learning, such as working on problem sheets, revising course material, writing lab reports and background reading.
From Year 3, the pattern of work depends on your chosen electives, but you can typically expect to spend about 250 hours over the year in lectures and tutorials in Year 3.
In the final year, about 120 hours will be spent in lectures, and about 600 hours on your research project, with the remaining time on independent learning.
Assessment
Our Physics degrees use a variety of assessment methods, the list below provides a guide to what you can expect:
- Computing reports and Laboratory reports
- Mastery tests
- Oral presentations and/or vivas
- Poster presentations
- Project reports
- Progress tests and quizzes
- Scientific writing exercises
- Written examinations
- Written problems
Assessment types
| Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 25% | 20% | 15% | 35% |
| Practical | 15% | 10% | 5% | 15% |
| Written | 60% | 70% | 80% | 50% |
| Based on the typical pathway through the course; percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number | ||||
Staff expertise
At Imperial, you will be taught by a range of teachers of all levels from Professors to PhD students, including some who undertake groundbreaking research and are regarded as experts in their field.
You may also experience peer teaching and be taught by specialists external to the College.
Entry requirements
We welcome students from all over the world and consider all applicants on an individual basis – see selection process below.
For advice on the requirements for the qualifications listed here please contact the Department (see Contact us).
We also accept a wide range of international qualifications. If the requirements for your qualifications are not listed here, please see our academic requirements by country page for guidance on which qualifications we accept.
A-levels
Minimum entry standards
Our minimum entry standard for 2023 entry is A*A*A overall, to include:
- A* in Mathematics
- A*/A in Physics
- A*/A in another subject (Further Mathematics is recommended, but not essential)
Chemistry, although not essential, is considered to be a useful third subject for developing knowledge and understanding of the course.
General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
Students taking English exam board science A-levels will be required to pass the practical endorsement.
Typical offer range
As a guide, here are the typical offers made to at least 80% of A-level applicants for 2021 entry:
- Three A-level offer: A*A*A-A*A*A*
Practical endorsement (practical science assessment)
If you are made an offer you will be required to achieve a pass in the practical endorsement in all science subjects that form part of the offer.
Additional Mathematics support
Our A-level Mathematics online course covers a range of key topic areas to help you gain a deeper understanding of the skills and techniques required to succeed in your A-level Mathematics exams.
This optional course has been built around the A-level syllabus with the aim of developing your thinking skills, fluency and confidence.
Please note: this course is not compulsory and does not form part of the entry requirements for this course. It is available free of charge via the EdX website. It is self-paced so you can start it at any time.
International Baccalaureate
Minimum entry standards
Our minimum entry standard for 2023 entry is 40 points overall, to include:
- 7, 6, 6 including Mathematics and Physics at higher level
Typical offer range
As a guide, the typical offer made to at least 80% of IB applicants for 2021 entry was 42 points overall.
Mathematics Higher Level
The Mathematics Analysis and Approaches or the Applications and Interpretation syllabi will be accepted at higher level, but Analysis and Approaches is preferred.
Additional Mathematics support
We have launched an A-level Mathematics online course, which is available free of charge via the EdX website.
Although this optional course has been built around the A-level syllabus, it is relevant to your curriculum too.
Please note: this course is not compulsory and does not form part of the entry requirements for this course. It is self-paced so you can start it at any time.
Advanced Placements
The grades detailed below are the minimum requirements for students offering only Advanced Placements as their exams for entry to Imperial.
If you are studying a High School Diploma that is accepted by Imperial alongside Advanced Placements, requirements may apply to both your Diploma and Advanced Placements.
Please consult our country index to check whether we accept your High School Diploma programme for admission.
Our minimum requirement for this course is grades 5, 5, 5 from:
- 5 in Calculus BC
- 5 in Physics C Electricity and Magnetism
- 5 in Physics C Mechanics
- 5 in Chemistry, Statistics, Computer Science, Macro or Micro Economics
For the Year Abroad course, you will need an appropriate modern foreign language grade 2 Advanced Placement, or grade B in year 12 of a USA High School Graduation Diploma.
Additional Mathematics support
We have launched an A-level Mathematics online course, which is available free of charge via the EdX website.
Although this optional course has been built around the A-level syllabus, it is relevant to your curriculum too.
Please note: this course is not compulsory and does not form part of the entry requirements for this course. It is self-paced so you can start it at any time.
Selection process
Assessing your application
Admissions Tutors consider all the evidence available during our rigorous selection process and the College flags key information providing assessors with a more complete picture of the educational and social circumstances relevant to the applicant. Some applicants may be set lower offers and some more challenging ones.
Admissions test
Applicants demonstrating suitable academic potential will be required to take an online Admissions Test which will cover basic school physics and mathematics.
The results of the test will be used along with all other application information in a holistic review to inform the selection for offers made.
The date and time of the test will be announced here once confirmed. Details of how to access the test will be sent to applicants directly.
Foundation programmes
A foundation course is a one-year preparation course, designed for international students, which leads to undergraduate programmes in the UK. Foundation programmes are normally for school-leavers who have studied a non-British curriculum but wish to pursue a degree at a UK university.
Foundation programmes are offered by many UK universities, but only two would be considered for entry to Imperial:
- UCL’s Undergraduate Preparatory Certificate for Science and Engineering (UPCSE), and
- Warwick’s International Foundation Programme (IFP) in Science & Engineering
UCL UPCSE
A year-long programme for international students whose school leaving qualifications do not allow them direct entry to UK universities. Students must complete four modules across the year – two compulsory and two elective modules:
| Module | Status |
|---|---|
| Research and Academic Skills: Science and Society | Compulsory |
| Academic English | Compulsory |
| Biology | Elective |
| Chemistry | Elective |
| Mathematics | Elective |
| Physics | Elective |
| Information correct at time of publishing, but subject to change | |
To be considered for admission to Physics, international students studying UCL UPCSE must achieve:
- 80% overall
- 80% Mathematics
- 80% Physics
Warwick IFP Science and Engineering
A year-long programme for international students whose school leaving qualifications do not allow them direct entry to UK universities.
To be considered for admission to Physics, international students studying Warwick IFP Science and Engineering must achieve:
- 80% overall
- 80% Mathematics + Physics
To meet these requirements, students should choose from the following IFP pathways:
- Engineering
Contextual admissions
We want to make sure that the Imperial learning community is as diverse as the society we serve. So to make our admissions process as fair as possible, we have introduced admissions schemes for Home students that allow us to consider your application in the full context of any additional barriers you may face.
Find out if you meet the eligibility criteria for our contextual admissions schemes.
This department will make you a guaranteed offer if you have predicted grades that meet the minimum College entry standard of AAA at A-level or an equivalent level qualification and you demonstrate motivation to study the specific subject area.
Read more about the contextual admissions scheme in this department and others.
ATAS certificate (overseas candidates)
An ATAS certificate is required for all visa-nationals, with the exception of EEA/Swiss nationals and nationals of the following countries: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea and the USA.
To apply for an ATAS certificate online, you will need your programme’s Common Aggregation Hierarchy (CAH) code and ‘descriptor’, as well as your university supervisor name. For this course, these are:
| CAH code | Descriptor | Supervisor name |
|---|---|---|
| CAH07-01-01 | Physics | Professor Michele Dougherty |
Your student visa application, or extension of stay, will automatically be refused if you need an ATAS certificate and cannot provide one.
For further guidance on obtaining an ATAS certificate please see the information on our International Student Support website.
English language requirement (all applicants)
All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the College.
For admission to this course, you must achieve the higher College requirement in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the English language requirements for undergraduate applicants.
Competence standards
Our competence standards highlight the core skills students should be able to demonstrate by the end of this course.
View the Department of Physics' competence standards [PDF]
We believe in providing the widest practicable access to all of our degree programmes and will make reasonable adjustments wherever possible to support your study. For more information, please contact the Department using the contact details below.
Department of Physics
T: +44 (0)20 7594 7513
E: ph.admissions@imperial.ac.uk
Tuition fees and funding
We charge tuition fees for every year that your course lasts. The fee you will be charged is based on your fee status, which is determined by government regulations.
Home rate of tuition
2023 entry
£9,250 per year.
Please note, this fee is set by the UK government and is subject to change until it has passed into legislation. We will update this page when this happens.
For each subsequent year, you should expect and budget for your tuition fee to increase by an amount in line with inflation. The measure of inflation used will be the Retail Price Index (RPIX) value, taken from April in the calendar year in which the academic session starts.
For example, the RPIX value in April 2023 will apply to fees for the academic year 2023–2024.
Fee status
Whether you pay the Home fee or not depends on your fee status.
Your fee status is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status.
Find out more about how we assess your fee status.
Home fee eligibility
You can find the conditions you need to meet to pay the Home rate of tuition fees from the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA). These apply to higher education courses in England and reflect the regulations as they currently stand, noting that these are subject to amendment.
Because of the UK’s exit from the European Union, some frameworks of eligibility have been amended. Individuals affected by the amended frameworks should refer to the UKCISA publication, Who pays ‘home’ fees for higher education in England [PDF].
Government funding
If you're a Home student, you can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the UK government to cover the entire cost of tuition for every year of your course.
You can also apply for a means-tested Maintenance Loan to help towards your living costs.
Overseas rate of tuition
2023 entry
The fee for Overseas students has not been confirmed for the 2023-24 academic year. The fee is controlled by the College and we will update this page when it is announced.
As a guide, the Overseas fee for 2022-23 was £36,200.
For each subsequent year, you should expect and budget for your tuition fee to increase by an amount in line with inflation. The measure of inflation used will be the Retail Price Index (RPIX) value, taken from April in the calendar year in which the academic session starts. For example, the RPIX value in April 2023 will apply to fees for the academic year 2023–2024.
Fee status
Whether you pay the Overseas fee or not depends on your fee status.
Your fee status is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status.
Find out more about how we assess your fee status.
Home fee eligibility
You can find the conditions you need to meet to pay the Home rate of tuition fees from the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA). These apply to higher education courses in England and reflect the regulations as they currently stand, noting that these are subject to amendment.
Because of the UK’s exit from the European Union, some frameworks of eligibility have been amended. Individuals affected by the amended frameworks should refer to the UKCISA publication, Who pays ‘home’ fees for higher education in England [PDF].
Accommodation and living costs
Living costs, including accommodation, are not included in your tuition fees.
Most Imperial undergraduates choose to live in our halls of residence in their first year. You can compare costs across different accommodation options.
Bursaries and scholarships
Careers
As a Physics graduate from the College, you will be highly sought after by employers. Many of our graduates go on to study a higher degree – either a Master’s degree, or straight to a PhD and a career in academic research.
Outside academia, our Physics graduates are sought after by a wide range of employers – from the electronics industry where they help design next-generation technologies, to the astrophysics and space technology industry where they’re needed to analyse space objects.
Recent graduates of the Department have become:
- Scientific Officer, Civil Service
- Data Scientist, Cyber risk modelling and prediction platform
- Nuclear Safety Engineer, EDF Energy
- Technology Analyst, Goldman Sachs
- Aerospace Engineer, Rolls-Royce
How to apply
UCAS key information
- UCAS course code: F390
- UCAS institution code: I50
Apply on UCAS
You can start and track your application on UCAS Hub. There you can add this course as one of your choices.
Application deadlines
25 January 2023 at 18.00 (UK time).
If your application includes a medicine course, the deadline is 15 October 2022 at 18.00 (UK time).
Any questions?
Explore our step by step guide on how to apply. You can also find answers to your questions about admissions.
Related departments
You may also be interested in the following related departments and the courses they offer:
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