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5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Heriot Watt University EdinburghHeriot-Watt’s MPhys in Mathematical Physics is built for students who want to master the language of the universe — combining deep theoretical physics with advanced mathematics and computational modelling. It suits curious, analytical thinkers aiming for careers in research, data science, or high-tech industries.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
You’ll begin with core modules like Mechanics, Fields and Forces, Waves and Particles, and Mathematics for Scientists 1, alongside Introduction to Programming in Python. These lay the groundwork for understanding physical systems and solving problems computationally.
Year 2:
This year strengthens your grasp of theoretical frameworks through Electricity and Magnetism, Quantum Theory and Thermodynamics, and Mathematics for Scientists 2. You’ll also continue developing your coding and analytical skills through lab work and simulations.
Year 3:
You’ll dive into advanced topics such as Solid State Physics, Statistical Mechanics, and Numerical Methods. The Mathematical Physics Project gives you the chance to explore a research question in depth, applying both mathematical and physical reasoning.
Year 4:
You’ll study specialist modules like Quantum Mechanics, Atomic and Nuclear Physics, and Fibre Optic Communications. The Honours Project is a major research component, often linked to Heriot-Watt’s active research groups in quantum science and photonics.
Year 5 (Master’s Year):
You’ll tackle advanced modules such as Quantum Optics, Computational Physics, and Advanced Photonics. The MPhys Project is a substantial research undertaking, preparing you for PhD-level study or technical leadership roles.
Focus areas
Quantum mechanics, mathematical modelling, computational physics, photonics, atomic and nuclear physics
Learning outcomes
Apply advanced mathematics to physical systems, conduct independent research, simulate complex phenomena, communicate scientific findings
Professional alignment (accreditation)
Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) — meets academic requirements for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status
Reputation (employability rankings)
1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for graduate employability (Heriot-Watt Graduate Outcomes, 2023)
Heriot-Watt’s MPhys Mathematical Physics program blends rigorous theory with hands-on experimentation, giving students the tools to model, simulate, and solve complex physical problems. From day one, you’ll be coding in Python, working in labs, and preparing for advanced research in quantum science, photonics, and computational physics.
Here’s how experiential learning is built into the program:
Graduates of Heriot-Watt’s MPhys Mathematical Physics program are highly sought after for their ability to model complex systems, solve abstract problems, and apply advanced mathematics to real-world challenges. With strong research training and computational skills, they’re ready for careers in science, technology, and data-driven industries.
Typical roles include quantitative analyst, computational physicist, data scientist, and research scientist. Here’s how Heriot-Watt supports your future success:
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are well-prepared for PhD-level study in mathematical physics, quantum technologies, or computational modelling — either at Heriot-Watt or other leading institutions. The MPhys also provides a strong foundation for interdisciplinary doctoral research in engineering, data science, or theoretical physics.
A-Levels BBB. Must include Maths and Physics achieved at B.International Baccalaureate 28 points. Must include Physics and Maths, both at Higher Level 5.Applicant to have English at a minimum of National 5 Grade C or GCSE Grade C or 4 for all courses.IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.TOEFL iBT 79 (including reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20, and writing 21)Indian: Class XII passed with an overall average of 70% minimum.USA: applicants to hold a combination of the following qualifications for entry: as a minimum, applicants must hold an accredited high school diploma with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale, minimum B average), and one letter of referenceUSA: ACT composite score of 26 or above (with no individual section below 24) • SAT (reading + mathematics) combined score of 1200 (with no individual score under 550); or SAT subjects tests at a score of 600 or higher • Two AP tests at grade 4 or above (taken in junior or senior year of high school) If standardised test scores are unavailableData AnalystStatisticianActuaryFinancial AnalystInvestment AnalystQuantitative ResearcherOperations Research AnalystRisk AnalystEconomistMarket Research AnalystBusiness AnalystData ScientistCryptographerSoftware DeveloperMachine Learning EngineerAccountantAuditorTeacherResearch ScientistMeteorologistBiostatisticianFinancial PlannerMathematical ModelerAcademic ResearcherArtificial Intelligence Specialist
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