MPhys Theoretical Physics
About this course
MPhys (Honours) in Theoretical Physics, a physics degree centred on mathematical and computational approaches to physical theory. Core topics include Data Analysis, Statistics, Mathematical Modelling, and Laboratory Techniques. The final-year project is full time for the final semester and is usually with one of the School's research teams. The first year covers foundational concepts through modules such as Mathematics, Physics 1A, and Physics 1B, introducing mechanics, waves, and quantum physics alongside laboratory work. The second year builds on these principles with Linear Mathematics, Multivariate Calculus, Physics 2A, and Physics 2B, extending the study of mechanics, relativity, oscillations, and electromagnetism. Unspecified years provide core instruction in topics such as Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, quantum mechanics, and thermal and statistical physics. Optional advanced study allows specialisation through modules including General Relativity, Quantum Field Theory, Monte Carlo Radiation Transfer, Nanophotonics, and Modern Topics in Condensed Matter 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, including A in both: Mathematics and Physics. IB: 38 (HL 6,6,6), including HL6 in both Mathematics and Physics.
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What students say
Based on about 51 final-year students who answered, across similar courses at this university
- Teaching on my course: 97%
- Learning opportunities: 91%
- Assessment and feedback: 85%
- Academic support: 98%
- Organisation and management: 93%
- Learning resources: 98%
- Student voice: 90%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 90 students who started, across similar courses at this university
- Continued on course: 96%
- Left higher education: 3%
- Moved to a lower qualification: 1%
What graduates do next
Based on about 15 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 65%
- Working and studying: 10%
- Further study: 20%
Most common jobs
- Finance Professionals: 25%
- Natural and social science professionals: 20%
- Business, Research and Administrative Professionals: 10%
- Information Technology Professionals: 10%
- Leisure, travel and related personal service occupations: 5%
- Find their work meaningful: 70%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 65%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 70%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 130 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- North East: 5%
- North West: 11%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 5%
- East Midlands: 4%
- West Midlands: 2%
- East of England: 4%
- London: 13%
- South East: 11%
- South West: 5%
- Wales: 2%
- Scotland: 37%
- Northern Ireland: 1%
Who gets in
Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- A levels: 90%
- Other HE qualification: 10%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- Recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of eligibility for Associate Membership.
Modules
- atomic, nuclear, and particle physics
- condensed matter physics
- electromagnetism
- Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics
- linear algebra
- magnetic resonance
- mathematics
- optics
- quantum mechanics
- special relativity and fields
- thermal and statistical physics
- Advanced Data Analysis
- Applications of Quantum Physics
- General Relativity
- Modern Topics in Condensed Matter Physics
- Monte Carlo Radiation Transfer
- Nanophotonics
- Quantum Field Theory
- Quantum Optics
- Mathematics
- Physics 1A
- Physics 1B
- Linear Mathematics
- Multivariate Calculus
- Physics 2A
- Physics 2B
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of MPhys Theoretical Physics at University of St Andrews earn?
The median salary is £33,500 after 15 months, £32,000 after 3 years, £39,500 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £31,000 and £54,500. The £39,500 median after five years is £1,000 more than the UK median for Physics.
What do graduates of MPhys Theoretical Physics at University of St Andrews do next?
95% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).
Are students happy with the teaching on MPhys Theoretical Physics at University of St Andrews?
97% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for MPhys Theoretical Physics at University of St Andrews?
The typical offer is AAA at A level. The average entrant had 231 UCAS points.
Is MPhys Theoretical Physics at University of St Andrews accredited?
Yes. Recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of eligibility for Associate Membership.
Does MPhys Theoretical Physics at University of St Andrews include a placement year or year abroad?
The course has an optional year abroad.
How many students continue on MPhys Theoretical Physics at University of St Andrews?
96% of students continued into their second year, and 3% left higher education.