Theoretical Physics

Theoretical Physics addresses the meaning of everything by employing the language of mathematics to understand the universe. From quantum information and grand unified theories of particle physics, to dark matter and cosmology, this subject can take you anywhere.

Our three-year BSc Theoretical Physics degree will teach you how fundamental physics and mathematical techniques are applied to understand advances in quantum information, cosmology, semiconductors, lasers, nuclear & particle physics.

You will explore the big questions, such as how did the universe begin, what are space and time made of and is it possible to recreate in a laboratory the conditions that existed seconds after the big bang?

You will have the opportunity to work on advanced projects, under the supervision of internationally recognised theoretical physicists in Swansea.

Why Theoretical Physics at Swansea?

• 11th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2025)

• 3rd in the UK for Teaching Quality (Guardian University Guide 2025)

• 5th in the UK for Teaching on my Course* (NSS 2024) * Based on the average positivity score across questions 1 to 4 in the NSS 2024 when ranked against universities featured in the Times Good University Guide

• Top 201-250 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025)

Physics at Swansea University is a widely admired degree that attracts students from across the world.

Your learning will be shaped by the large theoretical physics (PPCT) group with inspirational academics such as Professors Carlos Nunez and Tim Hollowood, internationally renowned for their research contributions to string theory, quantum field theory and black hole physics.

The Particle Physics & Cosmology Theory group in Swansea is one of the largest in the UK, with 12 academic staff engaged in research in a wide range of topics in Theoretical Physics.

Your Theoretical Physics Experience

• A flexibly structured degree path means you have the opportunity to study abroad for a year or work in industry for a year, either locally, nationally or overseas.

• Our common student & staff space (the Event Horizon) overlooking spectacular views of Swansea Bay, provides an ideal location for quiet study, informal discussions and lunches.

• The Physics department and the Swansea University Physics Society sponsor frequent social, and academic events such as departmental colloquia and distinguished lectures to bring students and staff together.

• Elected student reps for each year and for the Swansea University Physics Society (PhySoc) ensure that every student voice is heard through regular meetings with HoDs.

• Our groups in Particle Physics and Cosmology Theory, Applied Materials, and the ALPHA anti-matter collaboration with close ties to CERN, ensure that our teaching is informed by the latest research. Students have the opportunity to do a summer internship at CERN and undertake final year projects with any of our major research groups.

In Year 1, you will typically study areas including: Classical Mechanics; Astronomy and Cosmology; Mathematics for Physicists; Quantum Mechanics I; Special Relativity; Mathematics for Physicists; and Practical Physics.

In Year 2, you will typically study areas including: Electromagnetism; Practical Physics; Mathematics for Physicists; Thermal and statistical physics; Quantum Mechanics; Theoretical physics and astrophysics; and Professional Development and Career Planning.

In Year 3, you will typically study areas including: Nuclear and Particle Physics; Condensed Matter Physics; Gravity and Cosmology; Theoretical Physics Project; Advanced Theoretical Physics; Science Communication with Placement; and Atomic Physics.

We believe in fostering a learning environment where students actively engage with physics concepts through experimentation, data analysis, and problem-solving. We offer informal weekly Maths drop-in support sessions to assist with developing and enhancing problem solving skills. These are mentored by postgraduate students.

We use inquiry-based learning, labs and practical work and diverse assessment types throughout the programme. The labs and practical work promote active engagement, hands-on learning, diverse skills development and real-world experience. The research project modules gives you the opportunity to participate in real-life research, working on real-world problems/questions. Lectures take place in larger group sessions, in a lecture theatre setting. The course content is explored in further detail in workshops, allowing for further collaborative working with your peers.

Lecture recordings allow for more flexibility to revisit material, to revise for assessments and to enhance learning outside of the classroom. Some modules have extra resources in Canvas, our virtual learning environment, such as videos, slides and quizzes enabling further flexible study.

This course may offer some modules taught through the medium of Welsh or bilingually for students who consider themselves to be fluent Welsh speakers. For more details on the provision available see the Welsh Provision expander below.

This course may offer some modules taught through the medium of Welsh or bilingually for students who consider themselves to be fluent Welsh speakers. For more details on the provision available see the Welsh Provision expander below.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Physics, Institute of