BSc Mathematics and Theoretical Physics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Lincoln

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Theoretical Physics at Lincoln is designed for students who want to explore the deep interplay between mathematics and physics. It suits those who enjoy abstract problem-solving and want to apply rigorous mathematical methods to understand the fundamental laws of nature. You’ll study pure and applied mathematics alongside theoretical and applied physics, gaining both analytical and practical scientific skills.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year builds a strong foundation in mathematics and physics. Modules such as Algebra, Calculus, and Linear Algebra provide essential mathematical tools, while physics courses like Electricity, Magnetism, Thermal and Quantum Physics, Geometrical Optics, Waves and Mechanics, and Introduction to Modern Astronomy introduce you to core scientific principles. Practical skills are developed in Computer Algebra and Technical Computing and Laboratory 1, where you learn measurement, uncertainty, and data analysis.

Year 2
You’ll advance into more complex areas with modules such as Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, and Electromagnetism, alongside Condensed Matter Physics and Scientific Computing. The Professional Skills and Group Study module develops teamwork, project management, and communication skills, preparing you for collaborative research and industry roles.

Year 3
In your third year, you’ll tackle advanced topics including Numerical Methods, Statistical Mechanics and Quantum Physics, and Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Mechanics. You’ll also explore Fluid Dynamics, Cosmology, and optional modules such as Science Education Placement or Financial Mathematics, tailoring your studies to your career interests. A major Individual Project allows you to conduct independent research under supervision, often linked to external collaborating institutions.

Focus Areas

Algebra, calculus, linear algebra, electromagnetism, condensed matter physics, cosmology, quantum physics, fluid dynamics, numerical methods.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

Apply advanced mathematical techniques to solve complex physical problems.
Demonstrate computational and laboratory skills through independent and group projects.
Communicate scientific and mathematical ideas effectively across disciplines.
Integrate mathematics and physics knowledge to innovate in science and technology.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This program is accredited by both the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) and the Institute of Physics (IoP). Graduates are eligible for membership and can progress toward professional registration as Chartered Mathematicians (CMath) and Chartered Physicists (CPhys).

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Ranked 1st in the UK for student satisfaction in Mathematics and Physics (Complete University Guide 2025).
Teaching informed by cutting-edge research, with guest speakers including leading figures such as Professor Marcus du Sautoy OBE.
Strong international collaborations with institutions in Germany, Japan, Norway, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, and the USA.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the Mathematics and Theoretical Physics degree at Lincoln, you’ll gain practical skills through a combination of advanced mathematics, computational training, and hands-on physics experiments. The program is taught in the University’s modern Isaac Newton Building, where you’ll have access to specialist laboratories, computing suites, and collaborative learning spaces. From your first year, you’ll be applying theory in practice — whether through laboratory experiments, coding projects, or group-based problem-solving — ensuring you graduate with both technical expertise and professional experience.

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

Specialist Laboratories: Physics modules such as Electricity, Magnetism, Thermal and Quantum Physics and Geometrical Optics, Waves and Mechanics are supported by practical sessions in the Isaac Newton Building’s laboratories, giving you direct experience with experimental techniques.
Computational & Digital Tools: Modules like Computer Algebra and Technical Computing, Numerical Methods, and Scientific Computing train you in industry-standard software for simulation, modeling, and data analysis.
Group Projects & Professional Skills: In Year 2, the Professional Skills and Group Study module develops teamwork, project management, and communication skills, preparing you for collaborative research and industry roles.
Individual Research Project: In your final year, you’ll complete a substantial Independent Project, supervised by research-active staff and often linked to external collaborating institutions, giving you direct experience of cutting-edge research.
Industry-Relevant Modules: Courses such as Modern Physics in Industry connect theory with practical applications, ensuring you understand how mathematics and physics are used in sectors like energy, materials science, and computing.
International Research Links: The School of Mathematics and Physics collaborates with institutions in Germany, Japan, Norway, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, and the USA, offering opportunities to engage with global research networks.
Library & Learning Resources: The University of Lincoln Library provides access to specialist mathematics and physics journals, e-books, and digital databases, supporting both coursework and independent research.
Guest Lectures & Outreach: Students benefit from talks by leading figures such as Professor Marcus du Sautoy OBE, alongside opportunities to engage in science outreach and education placements.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Mathematics and Theoretical Physics degree at Lincoln are highly versatile, combining rigorous mathematical training with advanced physics expertise. Typical career paths include data scientist, research physicist, financial analyst, and software developer, with many graduates also entering sectors such as energy, education, and technology. This joint degree prepares you for both traditional science roles and emerging opportunities in industry:

University Careers & Employability Service: Lincoln’s Careers and Employability Service provides tailored support, including CV workshops, employer networking events, and one-to-one guidance, helping students secure roles in research, finance, and technology.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Physics and mathematics graduates from Lincoln benefit from strong employability outcomes, with average salaries in the UK for these disciplines ranging from £25,000–£30,000 within 15 months of graduation.
University–Industry Partnerships: The School of Mathematics and Physics has international collaborations with institutions in Germany, Japan, Norway, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, and the USA, giving students opportunities to engage with global research networks.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by both the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) and the Institute of Physics (IoP), supporting progression to Chartered Mathematician (CMath) and Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status, globally recognized professional qualifications.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to careers in scientific research, data science, financial modeling, aerospace, and education, demonstrating the breadth of opportunities available.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BSc Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, students can continue their studies through postgraduate degrees in mathematics, physics, or interdisciplinary research. Options include MSc Mathematics, MSc Physics, or research-based PhD programs, allowing graduates to specialize further and contribute to cutting-edge developments in areas such as quantum technologies, cosmology, and computational modeling.