Theoretical Physics, MPhys (Hons)

This integrated Master's degree serves as the initial pathway to Chartered Physicist status, ideal for those seeking an accredited program emphasizing the mathematical and theoretical facets of physics. Graduates often advance to postgraduate studies and careers in research or teaching, while others leverage the course's focus on advanced analytical, numerical, and computational skills for diverse professions. Durham's undergraduate physics programs offer flexibility, with four Institute of Physics-accredited options—including MPhys in Physics, Physics and Astronomy, and Theoretical Physics, plus a three-year BSc—all sharing a common first-year curriculum. Students can switch courses up to the end of the second year and may opt for a one-year work placement or study abroad, extending the program to five years.The curriculum begins with foundational physics theory, mathematics, and laboratory skills in the first year, progressing to advanced topics like quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and particle theory. Years 3 and 4 integrate theory with real-world applications through projects, including a final-year research project aligned with cutting-edge developments. Core modules span mechanics, thermodynamics, and computational skills, assessed primarily via end-of-year examinations, reports, and presentations.

Year 1 Core modules: Foundations of Physics introduces classical aspects of wave phenomena and electromagnetism, basic concepts in Newtonian mechanics, quantum mechanics, special relativity and optical physics. Discovery Skills in Physics a practical introduction to lab skills with emphasis on measurement uncertainty, data analysis and communication skills. Plus an introduction to programming. Year 2 Core modules: Foundations of Physics A develops your knowledge of quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. Foundations of Physics B develops your knowledge of thermodynamics, condensed matter physics and optics. Mathematical Methods in Physics provides mathematical knowledge and understanding to tackle the Foundations of Physics modules. Theoretical Physics provides a working knowledge of classical mechanics and complements the quantum mechanics content of the module Foundations of Physics A. Laboratory Skills and Electronics builds lab-based skills, such as experiment planning, data analysis, scientific communication and specific practical skills. Electronics is taught as both a theoretical and a practical subject, and computational physics and numerical methods provide experience of research-led investigation in physics in preparation for post-university life. Year 3 Core modules: Foundations of Physics A further develops your knowledge to include quantum mechanics and nuclear and particle physics. Foundations of Physics B includes the study of statistical physics and condensed matter physics. Theoretical Physics introduces more advanced methods in electromagnetism that can be used to investigate more realistic problems and concepts. It also builds your quantum mechanics knowledge and addresses further applications and conceptual issues of measurement and interpretation. The Computing Project is designed to develop computational and problem-solving skills. You’ll work on advanced computational physics problems using a variety of modern computing techniques and present your findings in a project report, poster and oral presentation. Mathematics Workshop introduces mathematical tools you’ll need to solve physical problems including vectors and matrices, complex analysis, calculus of variations, and integral variations. Year 4 Core modules: The research-based MPhys Project is carried out individually or as part of a small group. It provides experience of work in a research environment on a topic at the forefront of developments from physics, applied physics, theoretical physics or astronomy, and develops transferable skills for presenting research. This can be carried out in one of the Department's research groups or in collaboration with an external organisation. Advanced Theoretical Physics provides a working knowledge of non-relativistic quantum mechanical problems. Exploring modern theories of electronic structure and vibrational properties of materials including superconductivity; the quantum nature of light; and concepts of entangled states and mixed states and their relevance in experiments. Particle Theory will familiarise you with key results of relativistic quantum mechanics and its application to simple systems; the principles of quantum field theory and the role of symmetry in modern particle physics; and the standard model of particle physics and its experimental foundations. See our courses database for more details about these modules and examples of optional modules - https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/courses/f344/