BSc Theoretical Physics
About this course
BSc in Theoretical Physics, a physics degree centred on mathematical and theoretical aspects of physics. Core topics include Microelectronics, Statistics, and Mathematical Modelling. The course replaces practical laboratory work with advanced lecture courses and theoretical project work. The first year covers foundational concepts through Scientific Skills, Foundation Physics, Mathematical Methods 1, and Introduction to Algebra and Analysis. The second year progresses to advanced topics via Quantum & Statistical Physics, Physics of the Solid State, Electricity, Magnetism and Optics, and Mathematical Methods 2. Optional modules in the second year include Employability for Mathematics and Employability for Physics. The final year focuses on advanced theoretical study through compulsory modules such as Quantum Theory, Statistical Mechanics, Applied Mathematics Project, and Advanced Electromagnetism and Optics. Students can further tailor their studies through optional modules including Advanced Solid State Physics, Nuclear and Particle Physics, Numerical Analysis, Modelling and Simulation, and Financial Mathematics.
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: A (Mathematics) AB (Physics) OR A* (Mathematics) BB (Physics) IB: 34 points overall including 6 (Mathematics) 6 5 at Higher Level including Physics.
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What students say
Based on about 28 final-year students who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Teaching on my course: 83%
- Learning opportunities: 83%
- Assessment and feedback: 82%
- Academic support: 92%
- Organisation and management: 74%
- Learning resources: 94%
- Student voice: 73%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 115 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- Continued on course: 94%
- Left higher education: 6%
What graduates do next
Based on about 21 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 65%
- Working and studying: 10%
- Further study: 15%
- Unemployed: 5%
Most common jobs
- Information Technology Professionals: 20%
- Elementary occupations: 15%
- Engineering professionals: 15%
- Teaching Professionals: 10%
- Business and public service associate professionals: 10%
- Find their work meaningful: 95%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 75%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 55%
Who gets in
Based on about 110 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- A levels: 95%
- Access course: 2%
- Other HE qualification: 2%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of partially meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.
Modules
- Foundation Physics
- Scientific Skills
- Introduction to Algebra and Analysis
- Mathematical Methods 1
- Quantum & Statistical Physics
- Physics of the Solid State
- Electricity, Magnetism and Optics
- Linear Algebra
- Classical Mechanics
- Mathematical Methods 2
- Employability for Mathematics
- Employability for Physics
- Advanced Electromagnetism and Optics
- Applied Mathematics Project
- Quantum Theory
- Statistical Mechanics
- Advanced Solid State Physics
- Nuclear and Particle Physics
- Numerical Analysis
- Modelling and Simulation
- Financial Mathematics
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of BSc Theoretical Physics at Queen's University Belfast earn?
The median salary is £32,500 after 15 months. After fifteen months the middle half of graduates earn between £28,000 and £36,000. The £32,500 median after fifteen months is £500 less than the UK median for Physics.
What do graduates of BSc Theoretical Physics at Queen's University Belfast do next?
90% 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 Queen's University Belfast?
83% 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 Queen's University Belfast?
The typical offer is A at A level, or 34 points in the IB. The average entrant had 175 UCAS points.
Is BSc Theoretical Physics at Queen's University Belfast 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 Queen's University Belfast?
94% of students continued into their second year, and 6% left higher education.