BSc Physics with Philosophy

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Royal Holloway University of London

Program Overview

This joint degree offers a rare opportunity to study the fundamental laws of the universe while exploring the big questions of human thought. It suits students who are curious about both the scientific and philosophical dimensions of reality, combining rigorous training in physics with modules in logic, metaphysics, and ethics.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

You’ll begin with Foundations of Physics, Mathematics for Scientists, and Scientific Skills, alongside philosophy modules such as Introduction to European Philosophy and Introduction to Logic. This year builds your analytical foundation while encouraging you to think critically about science and its philosophical implications.

Year 2

In your second year, you’ll deepen your physics knowledge through Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Mathematical Methods, while philosophy courses such as Epistemology and Metaphysics and Ethics: Theory and Practice broaden your perspective on knowledge, morality, and reality. This balance ensures you develop both technical expertise and philosophical reasoning.

Year 3

Your final year allows you to specialise, with advanced physics options such as General Relativity, Condensed Matter Physics, or Particle Physics, and philosophy modules like Philosophy of Mind or Philosophy of Language. You’ll also complete a major project, showcasing your ability to integrate scientific and philosophical approaches in independent research.

Focus Areas

Quantum mechanics, relativity, electromagnetism, metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, philosophy of mind.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will master experimental and mathematical skills in physics, alongside critical thinking and argumentation in philosophy, preparing them for diverse careers in science, technology, and the humanities.

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’s Department of Physics is recognised with IOP Juno Champion and Athena SWAN Silver awards for excellence in teaching and inclusivity. The university is consistently ranked among the UK’s top institutions in physics, with strong industry links to CERN, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), and SNOLAB, enhancing graduate employability.

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 rich resources of the Philosophy Department. Because the degree is jointly run by two departments, you’ll benefit from both scientific training and philosophical 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 mechanics, waves, and quantum physics.
Specialist Software: Free use of Mathematica and Maple TA for mathematical modelling and problem-solving, integrated into physics coursework.
Digital Tools: Microsoft Office 365 and Azure Dev Tools provided free to all students, supporting simulations, coding, and collaborative projects.
Group Projects: Research skills modules and final-year projects require teamwork, preparing you for collaborative environments in both science and philosophy.
Philosophy Resources: Access to seminars, discussion groups, and specialist texts through the Emily Wilding Davison Library, supporting critical engagement with philosophical traditions.
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 philosophy.
Careers Support: Dedicated careers services and departmental guidance help you secure placements and prepare for graduate employment.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program are uniquely positioned, combining rigorous scientific training with advanced skills in reasoning and analysis. This opens doors to careers such as research scientist, data analyst, policy advisor, and science communicator, while others move into teaching, finance, or technology. The dual expertise in physics and philosophy ensures you stand out in both STEM and humanities sectors:

University Careers Service: Royal Holloway’s Careers & Employability Service provides 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.
Industry Partnerships: Strong collaborations with organisations such as the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), CERN, and SNOLAB provide physics students with unique opportunities, while philosophy graduates benefit from links to cultural institutions and research networks.
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 progressed into roles in finance, technology, research, and public policy, 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, philosophy, or interdisciplinary fields like science communication, data science, or ethics of technology. Many also choose to pursue PhD research, building on the strong research training embedded in the degree.