BSc Physics with Music

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Royal Holloway University of London

Program Overview

This unique three-year degree lets you combine the rigour of modern physics with the creativity of music, developing both scientific and artistic skills in one integrated program. It’s ideal for students who want to explore quantum theory, relativity, and experimental physics while also studying composition, theory, and historical musicology.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

You’ll begin with core physics modules such as Foundations of Physics, Mathematics for Scientists, and Scientific Skills, alongside introductory music courses in Composition and Historical Musicology. This year builds your analytical foundation while encouraging you to think creatively about how science and art intersect.

Year 2

In your second year, you’ll deepen your physics knowledge through Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Mathematical Methods, while continuing music studies in Theory and Analysis and Contemporary Issues in Music. This balance ensures you develop both technical expertise and cultural awareness.

Year 3

Your final year allows you to specialise, with advanced physics options such as General Relativity or Condensed Matter Physics, and music modules in Advanced Composition or Performance Studies. You’ll also complete a major project, showcasing your ability to integrate scientific and musical approaches in independent research.

Focus Areas

Quantum physics, relativity, electromagnetism, composition, theory and analysis, historical musicology.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will master experimental and mathematical skills in physics, alongside creative and analytical expertise in music, preparing them for diverse careers in science, technology, and the arts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This program is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), meaning successful completion partially meets the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist status.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Royal Holloway ranks 6th in the UK for student satisfaction with teaching (Guardian University Guide 2025) and boasts a 100% world-leading or internationally excellent research environment in physics (REF 2021). Students consistently report that the course is intellectually stimulating (NSS 2024).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program is designed to give you more than just classroom knowledge — you’ll gain practical skills by working in advanced physics laboratories, using specialist software, and engaging with the creative facilities of the Department of Music. Because the degree is jointly run by two departments, you’ll benefit from both scientific training and artistic practice, ensuring you graduate with a distinctive skillset. Here’s how that experiential learning comes to life:

Physics Laboratories: Access to modern teaching labs where you’ll develop experimental skills in areas such as quantum physics, condensed matter, and particle physics.
Specialist Software: Free use of Mathematica and Maple TA for mathematical modelling and problem-solving, alongside digital composition tools in the Music Department.
Digital Tools: Microsoft Office 365 and Azure Dev Tools provided free to all students, supporting simulations, data analysis, and collaborative projects.
Group Projects: Research skills modules and final-year projects require teamwork, preparing you for collaborative environments in both science and the arts.
Music Facilities: Access to rehearsal spaces, practice rooms, and performance venues, plus recording and composition studios equipped with industry-standard technology.
Internships & Placements: Opportunities through SEPnet internships and summer placements, connecting you with employers and research centres such as the National Physical Laboratory (NPL).
Research Institutes: Strong links with international centres like CERN and SNOLAB, offering pathways into cutting-edge scientific work.
Library & Learning Resources: The award-winning Emily Wilding Davison Library and Student Services Centre, with extensive collections in physics, mathematics, and music.
Careers Support: Dedicated careers services and departmental guidance help you secure placements and prepare for graduate employment.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this distinctive program are equipped with both scientific expertise and creative versatility, making them highly employable across diverse sectors. Typical career paths include research scientist, data analyst, sound engineer, and financial modeller, while others move into teaching, arts management, or technical consultancy. The dual training in physics and music ensures you stand out in both STEM and creative industries:

University Careers Service: Royal Holloway’s Careers & Employability Service offers tailored one-to-one guidance, employer networking events, and exclusive access to internships through the Science and Engineering Placement Network (SEPnet).
Employment Stats: The university reports that 92% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, with physics graduates earning competitive starting salaries and music graduates progressing into creative industries.
Industry Partnerships: Strong collaborations with organisations such as the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), CERN, and SNOLAB provide physics students with unique opportunities, while music students benefit from links to professional ensembles and performance venues.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), meaning graduates partially meet the educational requirements for Chartered Physicist status, a professional recognition that enhances career progression.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to roles in finance, technology, research, and the arts, demonstrating the versatility of this combined degree.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BSc, students are well-prepared to continue into postgraduate study such as MSc programs in physics, music, or interdisciplinary fields like acoustics, sound technology, or data science. Many also choose to pursue PhD research, building on the strong research training embedded in the degree.