BSc in Mathematics with Physics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Heriot Watt University Edinburgh

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Mathematical Physics at Heriot-Watt blends rigorous mathematics with the core principles of modern physics, making it perfect for students who enjoy both analytical thinking and scientific problem-solving. You’ll explore everything from calculus and algebra to quantum theory and electromagnetism, gaining a strong foundation for careers in research, data science, engineering, or quantitative fields.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

Your first year builds a strong mathematical and physical base through courses such as Calculus A/B, Introduction to University Mathematics, and Elements of Probability. Alongside this, you begin your physics journey with Mechanics, Fields and Forces and Waves and Matter, helping you transition smoothly into university-level scientific study.

Year 2

Second year strengthens your mathematical depth with Real Analysis, Linear Algebra, Multivariable Calculus, and Numerical Analysis A. You can also broaden your scientific understanding through optional modules like Probability and Statistics A or Photonics and Optics, giving you early opportunities to apply mathematics to real physical systems.

Year 3

In year three, the programme becomes more advanced and specialised. You’ll study key subjects such as Vector Analysis, Abstract Algebra, Applied Mathematics B, Complex Analysis, and Ordinary Differential Equations, sharpening both your theoretical and applied skills. Optional modules like Quantum Theory, Fluid Mechanics, or Thermodynamics & Statistical Mechanics allow you to focus more deeply on the physics areas that interest you.

Year 4 (Honours Year)

Your final year brings together advanced mathematical concepts and high-level physical theory. You’ll explore modules such as Topology, Special Relativity, Electromagnetism, Partial Differential Equations, Geometry, or more specialised options like Lie Groups and Lie Algebras. You will also complete an independent Mathematics Project Dissertation, giving you hands-on experience in research, modelling, or theoretical analysis.

Focus Areas

Mathematics, analysis, algebra, calculus, differential equations, applied mathematics, theoretical physics, quantum theory, electromagnetism, topology, mathematical methods in physics.

Learning Outcomes

You will master advanced mathematics and mathematical modelling, develop the ability to use mathematics as a precise language for physical theories, and build strong logical, analytical, and computational skills that are valuable across scientific and quantitative industries.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

While this degree is not tied to a specific professional accreditation body, its rigorous blend of mathematics and physics aligns closely with pathways into research, engineering, data science, quantitative finance, and postgraduate study in mathematics or physics.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Heriot-Watt is consistently recognised for excellent graduate outcomes and ranks among the top UK universities for employability. Graduates from its mathematics-related degrees regularly progress into competitive roles in finance, engineering, data science, and research, reflecting the strong industry relevance of this programme.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in this programme develop real, practical abilities by working with the same mathematical, computational, and analytical tools used by professional physicists and applied mathematicians. You’ll learn in an environment shaped by cutting-edge research, with access to specialist facilities, peer-supported learning spaces, and opportunities to solve real problems through projects and modelling activities. The programme integrates mathematics and physics from your very first year, giving you hands-on experience with advanced theories, computational methods, and structured problem-solving sessions supported by expert staff.

As you progress, you’ll work on substantial group activities, supervised research projects, modelling tasks, and coursework that use digital tools widely adopted in academia and industry. Your final year includes an independent dissertation guided by active researchers — a valuable opportunity to apply theory in a focused mathematical-physics context.

Here’s how this experiential learning is supported across the programme:

Experiential Learning Highlights:

Specialised mathematics and physics teaching labs: Students use dedicated spaces designed for modelling, problem-solving workshops, and computational training, including access to advanced software used for differential equations, data analysis, symbolic computation, and mathematical modelling.
Computational tools training: Courses introduce digital tools such as MATLAB, Python-based modelling environments, and mathematical software to solve real physical and mathematical problems — essential for modern physics and applied mathematics.
Group-based problem-solving sessions: Many modules include structured group work, modelling challenges, collaborative tutorials, and team-based assignments that strengthen communication and leadership skills.
Research-aligned final-year dissertation: Students complete a substantial research project under supervision, where they apply advanced mathematics to physical problems — often drawing on current research from Heriot-Watt’s mathematical sciences and physics groups.
Access to world-class research institutes: Students benefit from the research culture of the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences and links to the International Centre for Mathematical Sciences. This environment shapes teaching content and exposes you to real research activity.
Mathematics support hub (“Maths Café”): A dedicated peer-assisted support centre where students work through problems together, receive guidance, and build confidence with challenging concepts.
Modern library and digital resources: You’ll use Heriot-Watt’s main library for textbooks, journals, quiet study zones, mathematical and physical sciences collections, and powerful online academic databases.
Industry-relevant analytical and modelling skills: The curriculum emphasises the practical side of mathematical physics — from solving differential equations for physical systems to using computational simulations — preparing you for technical roles in research, engineering, data science, and quantitative industries.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Mathematics and Mathematical Physics at Heriot-Watt are known for their strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills — qualities that employers across scientific, financial, and technology sectors actively seek. Most students secure professional roles or enter advanced study soon after graduation, reflecting the programme’s strong reputation and industry relevance.

Typical job roles include:

Data Scientist / Data Analyst
Quantitative Analyst (Finance)
Software Developer / Technical Consultant
Research Scientist or Scientific Analyst

You’ll be supported by Heriot-Watt’s specialised employability ecosystem, including:

Careers and Graduate Futures Service, offering personalised career guidance, CV development, internship preparation, and interview coaching specifically for STEM students.
The Maths Café, a well-established academic-support initiative that strengthens mathematical reasoning and communication — key skills valued in analytics, research, and consultancy roles.
Go Global mobility opportunities, enabling students to study abroad at Heriot-Watt’s international campuses, developing global awareness and enhancing employability in multinational sectors.

Employment statistics & salary outcomes:

Around 80% of mathematics graduates are in professional employment within 15 months of graduating.
Average early-career salary for mathematics-related graduates is approximately £28,000, with physics-mathematics pathways typically progressing to higher ranges within a few years.
Graduates often enter sectors such as finance, scientific research, engineering analytics, IT, consulting, and education.

Industry partnerships & long-term value:

Heriot-Watt has strong links with sectors including finance, energy, technology, and scientific research, allowing students to engage with employers through workshops, talks, and project-based learning.
The university’s global reputation in mathematics, actuarial science, physics, and engineering ensures the degree carries long-term credibility in both UK and international job markets.
The programme’s rigorous mathematical and applied content provides a durable foundation, making graduates adaptable to emerging fields such as machine learning, modelling, data science, and scientific computing.

Graduation outcomes:
Students leave with a highly versatile skillset — advanced mathematical reasoning, analytical thinking, computational proficiency, and the ability to model real-world scientific and physical systems — positioning them strongly for technical, research, and quantitative careers around the world.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this programme, students can progress into a wide range of postgraduate pathways. Many choose Master’s degrees in Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, Statistics, Physics, Computational Science, or Quantitative Finance. Others pursue research degrees (MSc by Research or PhD) in theoretical or applied mathematics, mathematical physics, engineering modelling, or interdisciplinary scientific areas. The strong analytical base of the degree also supports transitions into specialised professional routes such as actuarial science, artificial intelligence, and advanced computational modelling.