MSci Theoretical Physics
Royal Holloway, University of London
About this course
MSci in Physics, examining the theoretical foundations of classical and modern physics. Core topics include programming, microelectronics, data analysis, mathematical modelling, and research methods. The programme includes laboratory-based scientific skills modules and culminates in a major individual research project in the final year. The fourth year is intercollegiate, with module choices available from other University of London colleges.
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-AAB (Required subjects: A-levels in Mathematics and Physics, plus a pass in the practical element of all science A-levels being taken. We require English and Mathematics GCSE at grade 4(C)) IB: 6,6,6 at Higher Level or 36 points overall including 6 in Maths at Higher Level and 6 in Physics at Higher Level
See the highest paying Physics & Chemistry degrees in the UK →
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: 96%
- Learning opportunities: 94%
- Assessment and feedback: 86%
- Academic support: 95%
- Organisation and management: 85%
- Learning resources: 87%
- Student voice: 78%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 35 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- Continued on course: 90%
- Left higher education: 10%
What graduates do next
Based on about 10 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 50%
- Working and studying: 5%
- Further study: 25%
- Unemployed: 10%
Most common jobs
- Natural and social science professionals: 20%
- Information Technology Professionals: 20%
- Sales occupations: 15%
- Business and public service associate professionals: 15%
- Engineering professionals: 15%
- Find their work meaningful: 90%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 75%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 70%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 40 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 5%
- West Midlands: 5%
- East of England: 5%
- London: 35%
- South East: 35%
- South West: 5%
Who gets in
Based on about 45 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- A levels: 85%
- Access course: 5%
- Other HE qualification: 10%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.
TEF 2023 (whole university): Silver overall, Silver for student experience, Silver for student outcomes.
Modules
- Mathematics for Scientists 1
- Mathematics for Scientists 2
- Scientific Skills 1
- Scientific Skills 2
- Classical Mechanics
- Fields and Waves
- Classical Matter
- Physics of the Universe
- Academic Integrity
- Mathematical Methods
- Scientific Computing Skills
- Quantum Mechanics
- Optics
- Electromagnetism
- Scientific Skills 3
- Classical and Statistical Thermodynamics
- The Solid State
- Advanced Skills in Physics
- Further Mathematical Methods
- Quantum Theory
- Advanced Classical Physics
- General Relativity and Cosmology
- Nonlinear Dynamical Systems
- Particle Physics
- Metals and Semiconductors
- Stellar Astrophysics
- Particle Astrophysics
- Planetary Geology and Geophysics
- Astronomy
- Energy and Climate Science
- Major Project in Physics
- Research Review
- Lie Groups and Lie Algebras
- Statistical Mechanics
- Advanced Quantum Theory
- Photonics and Metamaterials
- Particle Accelerator Physics
- Theoretical Treatments of Nano-systems
- Nano-Electronics and Quantum Technology
- Superconductors and Superfluids
- Standard Model Physics and Beyond
- Statistical Data Analysis
- String Theory and Branes
- Supersymmetry and Conformal Field Theory
- Theory of Complex Networks
- Equilibrium Analysis of Complex Systems
- Dynamical Analysis of Complex Systems
- Mathematical Biology
- Elements of Statistical Learning
- Astroparticle Cosmology
- Quantum Field Theory
- Modelling Quantum Many-Body Systems
- Advanced Condensed Matter
- Gravitational Wave Physics
- Dark Matter & Dark Energy
- Research Topics in Astrophysics
- Advanced Particle Physics
- Advanced Astrophysics
- Gravitational Waves Astronomy
- Order and Excitations in Quantum Materials
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of MSci Theoretical Physics at Royal Holloway, University of London earn?
The median salary is £32,000 after 15 months, £27,500 after 3 years, £36,500 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £28,500 and £43,500. The £36,500 median after five years is £2,000 less than the UK median for Physics.
What do graduates of MSci Theoretical Physics at Royal Holloway, University of London do next?
85% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).
Are students happy with the teaching on MSci Theoretical Physics at Royal Holloway, University of London?
96% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for MSci Theoretical Physics at Royal Holloway, University of London?
The typical offer is AAA at A level, or 36 points in the IB. The average entrant had 104 UCAS points.
Is MSci Theoretical Physics at Royal Holloway, University of London accredited?
Yes. Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of fully meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.
Does MSci Theoretical Physics at Royal Holloway, University of London include a placement year or year abroad?
The course has an optional placement year and an optional year abroad.
How many students continue on MSci Theoretical Physics at Royal Holloway, University of London?
90% of students continued into their second year, and 10% left higher education.