MMath MPhys Hons in Mathematics and Physics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of York

Program Overview

This integrated degree is ideal for students who want to master both mathematics and physics, combining rigorous theoretical training with practical applications. You’ll study advanced mathematical methods alongside core physics modules, preparing you for research, industry, or further academic progression.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year builds a strong foundation in both subjects. You’ll study Relativity, Classical Mechanics and Laboratories, and Classical and Quantum Waves in physics, while mathematics modules include Foundations and Calculus, Mathematical Programming and Skills, and Multivariable Calculus and Matrices. Together, these courses consolidate your existing knowledge and prepare you for advanced study.

Year 2
In the second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of fundamental laws and mathematical techniques. Physics modules include Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism, Statistical and Solid State Physics, and Quantum, Atomic, Nuclear and Particle Physics. Mathematics courses such as Vector and Complex Calculus and Quantum and Continuum Dynamics provide the analytical tools to tackle increasingly complex problems.

Year 3
Year three introduces advanced concepts and offers flexibility through option modules. You’ll choose six modules from areas such as Plasma Physics and Fusion, Relativity and Cosmology, Medical Physics, Quantum Science and Technologies, Partial Differential Equations, Cryptography, and Numerical Analysis. This allows you to tailor your degree to your interests, whether in theoretical physics, applied mathematics, or interdisciplinary fields.

Year 4
Your final year focuses on research and specialisation. You’ll undertake either the MPhys Research Project and Skills or the Extended Independent Project in Mathematics, conducting original research under academic supervision. Projects have included laser spectroscopy of exotic nuclei, construction of advanced microscopes, and mathematical modelling of complex systems. Alongside this, you’ll select advanced modules such as General Relativity, Scientific Supercomputing, Advanced Quantum Mechanics, or Mathematical Ecology, applying your knowledge to cutting-edge topics.

Focus Areas

Mathematical modelling, theoretical physics, quantum mechanics, relativity, computational methods, applied mathematics.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to apply advanced mathematical and physical theories to complex problems, conduct independent research, and communicate scientific ideas effectively across disciplines.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

MPhys accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP) – pathway to Chartered Physicist (CPhys).
MMath accredited by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) – pathway to Chartered Mathematician (CMath).

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

100% of departmental research outputs rated 3 and 4** in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education).
York is one of only four UK universities rated Gold for teaching and top 10 for research (REF 2021).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on York’s MMath/MPhys Mathematics and Physics program gain practical skills through a unique blend of advanced mathematics and experimental physics. From the very beginning, you’ll be working in laboratories, tackling computational projects, and engaging with research-led teaching that mirrors professional practice. The program is designed to ensure you graduate with not only theoretical knowledge but also hands-on experience using specialist facilities, digital tools, and collaborative projects.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded into your degree:

Physics Laboratories (Years 1–2): Core modules such as Classical Mechanics and Laboratories and Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism include extensive lab sessions, giving you practical experience with experimental setups and data collection.
Mathematical Programming and Skills (Year 1): You’ll gain direct training in computational tools and mathematical software, building coding and modelling skills essential for modern physics and applied mathematics.
Group Projects and Collaboration: Laboratory investigations and computational modelling tasks are designed to be team-based, helping you develop communication and teamwork skills alongside technical expertise.
Advanced Astrophysical and Physics Laboratories (Year 3): Specialist facilities allow you to explore areas such as Relativity and Cosmology, Plasma Physics and Fusion, or Medical Physics, applying theory to real-world experiments.
Extended Independent Project (Year 4): You’ll undertake either the MPhys Research Project and Skills or the Extended Independent Project in Mathematics, working under academic supervision on original research. Past projects have included laser spectroscopy of exotic nuclei, construction of advanced microscopes, and mathematical modelling of complex systems.
Scientific Supercomputing Module (Year 4): Direct training in high-performance computing, giving you hands-on experience with digital tools used in simulations and large-scale data analysis.
York Plasma Institute: Access to one of the UK’s leading centres for plasma physics, linking mathematics and physics with cutting-edge research in fusion and space science.
University Library and Digital Resources: Extensive collections and online databases support your research, while York’s IT services provide access to specialist software for mathematics and physics.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of York’s MMath/MPhys Mathematics and Physics are highly versatile, combining advanced analytical skills with practical problem-solving ability. Many progress into roles such as research scientist, data analyst, financial modeller, or software developer, while others enter industries like engineering, technology, and education. This dual accreditation degree ensures you are prepared for both academic and professional pathways:

University Careers and Placements Service: York’s Careers and Placements team provides tailored support including CV workshops, employer networking events, and access to exclusive internships and graduate schemes.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: According to York’s official graduate outcomes, 93% of Physics graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduation, with typical starting salaries ranging from £25,000–£30,000 depending on sector.
University–Industry Partnerships: The program benefits from York’s collaborations with organisations such as the York Plasma Institute, the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy (WRIPA), and industry partners in aerospace, computing, and finance.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The MPhys pathway is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), supporting Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status, while the MMath pathway is accredited by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), supporting Chartered Mathematician (CMath) status.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to careers in astrophysics research, quantitative finance, data science, and engineering, while others have pursued doctoral studies contributing to discoveries in cosmology, plasma physics, and applied mathematics.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MMath/MPhys, students can continue into PhD research in mathematics, physics, or interdisciplinary fields at York or other leading institutions worldwide. The program’s strong research foundation also supports progression into areas such as computational physics, mathematical modelling, quantum technologies, or data science, ensuring graduates remain at the forefront of scientific and technological innovation.