BSc Theoretical Physics
About this course
BSc Hons in Theoretical Physics, a physics degree centred on mathematical and computational approaches to physical theory. Core topics include Programming, Data Analysis, Statistics, Mathematical Modelling, Laboratory Techniques, and Critical & Analytical Thinking. The first year is shared across all single-honours physics degree schemes, providing flexibility to switch routes until the end of the first year. The first year covers core foundations through modules such as Experimental Physics, Fields, Matter and Quantum Physics, and Mathematical Skills 1. The second year progresses into advanced methods via Electromagnetism, Waves and Optics, Mechanics, Variations and Symmetry, and Physics Modelling Project. The final year involves collaborative work through the Theoretical Physics Group Project, alongside compulsory study in Field Theory in Quantum Mechanics and Relativity, Nuclear and Particle Physics. Optional modules allow students to explore specialist areas such as Condensed Matter Physics, Cosmology, Foundations of Quantum Technology, and Space Physics.
Written by AI from the university's course page and module list. It can get details wrong, so check the official course page before you rely on it.
Entry requirements
A level: AAA. This should include Mathematics grade A and Physics grade A. IB: 36 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects including 6 in Mathematics HL (either analysis and approaches or applications and interpretations) and Physics HL
See the highest paying Physics & Chemistry degrees in the UK →
What students say
Based on about 6 final-year students who answered (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Teaching on my course: 90%
- Learning opportunities: 90%
- Assessment and feedback: 96%
- Academic support: 85%
- Organisation and management: 100%
- Learning resources: 97%
- Student voice: 93%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 20 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Continued on course: 100%
What graduates do next
Based on about 48 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university
- Working: 58%
- Working and studying: 9%
- Further study: 23%
- Unemployed: 2%
Most common jobs
- Engineering professionals: 20%
- Natural and social science professionals: 15%
- Elementary occupations: 10%
- Information Technology Professionals: 10%
- Teaching Professionals: 10%
- Find their work meaningful: 70%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 65%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 50%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 95 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- North East: 2%
- North West: 35%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 8%
- East Midlands: 10%
- West Midlands: 7%
- East of England: 5%
- London: 7%
- South East: 8%
- South West: 8%
- Wales: 6%
- Scotland: 3%
Who gets in
Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- A levels: 85%
- Baccalaureate: 5%
- Other HE qualification: 5%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of partially meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.
TEF 2023 (whole university): Gold overall, Silver for student experience, Gold for student outcomes.
Modules
- Experimental Physics
- Fields, Matter and Quantum Physics
- Mathematical Skills 1
- Mathematical Skills 2
- Physics Skills
- The Physical Universe
- Electromagnetism, Waves and Optics
- Mathematical Techniques in Physics
- Mechanics, Variations and Symmetry
- Physics Modelling Project
- Properties of Matter
- Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Physics
- Field Theory in Quantum Mechanics
- Problem Solving and Sustainability
- Relativity, Nuclear and Particle Physics
- Theoretical Physics Group Project
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Cosmology
- Foundations of Quantum Technology
- Further Particle Physics
- Space Physics
- Teaching, Outreach and Public Engagement
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of BSc Theoretical Physics at Lancaster University earn?
The median salary is £31,500 after 15 months, £29,500 after 3 years, £37,000 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £29,000 and £45,500. The £37,000 median after five years is £1,500 less than the UK median for Physics.
What do graduates of BSc Theoretical Physics at Lancaster University do next?
91% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).
Are students happy with the teaching on BSc Theoretical Physics at Lancaster University?
90% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for BSc Theoretical Physics at Lancaster University?
The typical offer is AAA at A level, or 36 points in the IB. The average entrant had 167 UCAS points.
Is BSc Theoretical Physics at Lancaster University accredited?
Yes. Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of partially meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.
How many students continue on BSc Theoretical Physics at Lancaster University?
100% of students continued into their second year, and 0% left higher education.