Theoretical Physics

Examine the fundamental mathematics that has brought physicists ever closer to a ‘theory of everything’. You’ll explore the classical physics principles that defined scientific thinking up to the 20th century, and look in depth at topics like relativity and quantum mechanics.

Explore the principles that defined scientific thinking up to the 20th century, then dive into areas like relativity and quantum mechanics that have led to countless discoveries.

Taught across two departments, the Theoretical Physics BSc from Sheffield puts an emphasis on the fundamental mathematics that has brought physicists ever closer to a ‘theory of everything’.

As well as the foundation of essential physics given to all physics students, you’ll build a much more detailed understanding of mathematical concepts thanks to lectures delivered by our colleagues in the School of Mathematics and Statistics. They’ll introduce you to calculus, geometry, differential equations, linear algebra, and mechanics and fluids, too.

In practical classes in your first year, you’ll run experiments using the equipment in our modern laboratories to help you understand how important theories apply to the real world. In programming classes you can learn skills that are key to many graduate careers, from data science to computer game design.

And because curiosity is what powers discovery, we’ll encourage you to dive into optional modules during your third year – exploring topics like dark matter and mathematical biology, alongside core modules in quantum mechanics and statistical physics.

Finally, you’ll have the option to gain hands-on research experience investigating a real-world physics problem, undertake an industrial group project, or take an education and outreach project intended for those considering a career in teaching.

Why study this course?

• No. 1 physics department in the UK - 100% of our research and impact was rated world-leading or internationally excellent by REF 2021.

• More astro content than most degrees - you can study 50% astrophysics content throughout your degree, more than most universities offer.

• Student life - because you’ll be taught across two departments, you’ll have double the social life. In maths you’ll be able to join pizza socials, the SUMS society ball or football club, or attend film screenings. In physics you might choose to join the Sheffield Space Initiative, and design a Mars rover or launch a rocket.

• Incredible research opportunities - you can access incredible research opportunities, including a summer research placement, work placements and field trips, thanks to our links with organisations like CERN and the observatories on La Palma in the Canary Islands.