MSci Hons Physics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Queen Mary University of London

Program Overview

Queen Mary’s MSci Physics is a four-year integrated master’s degree designed for students who want to explore the universe at its deepest levels — and graduate ready for research, innovation, or high-tech careers.
It suits ambitious learners who enjoy theoretical challenges and want to master topics like quantum mechanics, cosmology, and artificial intelligence while gaining hands-on experience in labs and research projects.


Curriculum structure

Year 1: Core Foundations in Physics and Mathematics
You’ll begin with Classical Physics, Electric and Magnetic Fields, and Modern Physics, building a strong base in mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum ideas. Modules like Mathematical Techniques 1 & 2 sharpen your analytical skills, while Professional Skills for Scientists introduces coding, communication, and scientific writing. You’ll also explore the cosmos through Our Universe and develop lab skills in Scientific Measurement.

Year 2: Expanding Knowledge and Specialisation
This year deepens your understanding of quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and computational physics. You’ll choose one of four streams — Physics, Theoretical Physics, Astrophysics, or Physics with Artificial Intelligence — each offering tailored modules and lab experiences. You’ll also complete Scientific Investigation Skills, a practical module that prepares you for independent research.

Year 3: Advanced Topics and Research
You’ll select from modules like Cosmology, Quantum Theory, Machine Learning, and General Relativity, depending on your chosen stream. Every student completes a full-year Final Year Project, working closely with academic staff on original research — from particle physics to AI applications — using Queen Mary’s specialist labs and observatory.

Year 4: Master’s-Level Depth and Research Focus
In your final year, you’ll take advanced modules such as Quantum Field Theory, Advanced Gravity, or Computational Physics, depending on your stream. You’ll also complete a substantial MSci Research Project, often linked to active research groups in theoretical physics, astrophysics, or AI, preparing you for PhD study or technical careers.


Focus areas:
Quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, astrophysics, artificial intelligence, theoretical physics, cosmology

Learning outcomes:
Numerical modelling, data analysis, coding, experimental design, scientific communication, independent research

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) — meets the full educational requirement for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status

Reputation (employability rankings):

  • Queen Mary is part of the Russell Group of leading UK universities
  • Physics graduates have gone on to work at CERN, Airbus, Goldman Sachs, IBM, and the UK Space Agency
  • Strong research heritage — birthplace of string theory and contributor to Higgs boson discovery

Official program page – MSci Physics at Queen Mary University of London

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in Queen Mary’s MSci Physics program gain practical experience through a powerful mix of lab work, coding, and research — all supported by specialist facilities and expert-led teaching. From your first year, you’ll be working with real data, professional-grade equipment, and digital tools that prepare you for careers in science, tech, or research.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into the MSci Physics journey:

  • Scientific Measurement & Investigation Skills: Lab-based modules in Years 1 and 2 develop your experimental technique, data analysis, and scientific reporting using industry-standard equipment.
  • Final Year and MSci Research Projects: Independent research projects in Years 3 and 4, often linked to active research groups in quantum theory, astrophysics, or AI.
  • Digital Tools: You’ll learn to code in Python and use simulation and modelling software across modules in computational physics and machine learning.
  • Group Work & Communication: Modules like Professional Skills for Scientists include collaborative tasks, presentations, and scientific writing to prepare you for team-based environments.
  • G.O. Jones Building: The £12m refurbished home of physics teaching and research, featuring advanced labs, computing suites, and the Mile End Observatory — used for undergraduate astrophysics training.
  • Access to Research Institutes: Opportunities to engage with the Centre for Research in String Theory and other specialist groups within the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences.
  • Libraries and Study Spaces: Queen Mary’s Mile End campus offers extensive resources including physics journals, e-books, and collaborative learning zones.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Queen Mary’s MSci Physics program are highly sought after for roles in research, technology, and finance — thanks to their advanced training in quantum theory, data science, and experimental physics.
Typical career paths include research physicist, data scientist, software engineer, and AI developer, with many students progressing into PhD study or technical leadership roles.

Here’s how Queen Mary supports your future:

  • Careers and Enterprise Team: Offers tailored support through career coaching, employer networking events, and access to internships via QConsult and QMUL Work Experience schemes.
  • Graduate Outcomes: £29,000 average salary 15 months after graduation, with Queen Mary physics graduates working at CERN, Airbus, Goldman Sachs, IBM, and the UK Space Agency.
  • Industry Partnerships: The School of Physical and Chemical Sciences collaborates with global research centres and companies through the SEPnet consortium, giving students access to placements, research projects, and employer-led events.
  • Accreditation Value: Accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) — meets the full educational requirement for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status.
  • Graduate Destinations: Alumni work in scientific computing, aerospace, fintech, and postgraduate research across the UK and internationally.

Further Academic Progression:
The MSci is designed to prepare students for PhD study in theoretical physics, quantum field theory, astrophysics, or AI. The fourth-year research project and advanced modules provide a strong foundation for doctoral research, and Queen Mary’s active research groups offer direct pathways into funded PhD opportunities.

 

Program Key Stats

£32,950 (Annual Cost)
£9,535
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

ABB
3.3
32
75

N/A
N/A
6.0
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Energy
  • business
  • marketing
  • engineering
  • technology
  • IT and finance

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