BSc Mathematics and Physics with professional placement or study abroad

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Bath

Program Overview

This BSc Mathematics and Physics at the University of Bath is designed for students who want to master the rigour of mathematics while applying it to the universal principles of physics. It suits analytical thinkers who enjoy problem-solving and want to combine mathematical proof with physical insight, preparing them for careers in science, technology, and beyond.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
You’ll establish a strong foundation in both disciplines with modules such as Foundations of Physics 1, Mathematics for Physics 1, Analysis 1A, and Physics Skills 1. This year introduces mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism, while sharpening your mathematical reasoning and proof-writing skills.

Year 2:
The second year deepens your knowledge with Foundations of Physics 2, Further Physics: From Neutrinos to Black Holes, Analysis 2A, and Mathematics for Physics 2. You’ll explore particle physics, nuclear physics, and cosmology, alongside advanced mathematical methods and computational techniques in Python.

Year 3:
This is your professional placement or study abroad year. You’ll gain real-world experience working in industry, research labs, or studying at a partner university overseas. Bath’s placement team supports opportunities with organisations such as CERN, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, and international universities, giving you invaluable professional and cultural exposure.

Year 4:
You’ll return to Bath for advanced modules such as Quantum Mechanics, Condensed Matter Physics, and Differential Geometry. You’ll also complete a major project, applying your skills to a research question that bridges mathematics and physics. Optional units like General Relativity or Quantum Optics let you specialise further.

Focus Areas

Mathematical analysis, quantum mechanics, cosmology, particle physics, computational physics, and applied mathematics.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop advanced analytical, mathematical, and computational skills, alongside professional placement or international study experience.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Fully accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), meeting educational requirements for Chartered Physicist status.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Bath ranks 8th in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025 and 9th in the Daily Mail University Guide 2025. Physics graduates report 90% in work or further study within 15 months of graduation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Experiential learning in Bath’s BSc Mathematics and Physics with Professional Placement or Study Abroad is designed to give you more than just theory — you’ll actively apply your skills in labs, projects, and real-world environments. From mastering advanced mathematical methods to conducting experiments in physics laboratories, you’ll gain practical expertise that employers and research institutions value. The program also integrates digital tools and international opportunities, ensuring you graduate with both technical depth and global experience.

Here’s how Bath makes experiential learning a core part of your degree:

Specialist laboratories: Access to Bath’s Physics Teaching Laboratories and facilities for optics, condensed matter, and computational physics, where you’ll carry out experiments and develop technical skills.
Professional placement or study abroad: Spend a year working in industry, research labs, or studying at a partner university overseas. Bath’s placement team supports opportunities with organisations such as CERN, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, and international universities.
Software & digital tools: Training in Python programming and computational modelling, equipping you with skills widely used in both research and industry.
Group projects: Collaborative project work in later years, including preparation for your final-year research project that bridges mathematics and physics.
Specialist modules with applied focus: Advanced options such as Differential Geometry, Quantum Mechanics, or General Relativity connect you directly with cutting-edge research areas.
Library & resources: Full access to Bath’s Library and Institute of Physics-accredited resources, ensuring you’re supported with journals, databases, and professional networks.
Institute of Physics accreditation: Your practical training is aligned with professional standards, meeting requirements for Chartered Physicist status.

This combination of hands-on lab work, computational training, and international placement opportunities means you’ll graduate with the confidence to tackle complex problems and the experience to stand out in competitive job markets.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Bath’s BSc Mathematics and Physics with Professional Placement or Study Abroad are equipped with a rare combination of analytical, mathematical, and experimental skills. This blend makes them highly employable in diverse fields, with typical roles including data scientist, research physicist, quantitative analyst, and software engineer. Many also move into sectors such as finance, technology, and engineering, where problem-solving expertise is prized.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

University career services: Bath’s Careers Service provides tailored support such as CV workshops, employer networking events, and one-to-one guidance. The Placement Office helps students secure professional placements or study abroad opportunities with leading organisations.
Employment stats & salary figures: Official Bath data shows that 90% of physics graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation, with strong salary prospects across science, technology, and finance sectors.
University–industry partnerships: Placement opportunities include world-leading institutions such as CERN, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, and international universities, giving you hands-on experience in cutting-edge research and industry.
Long-term accreditation value: The program is fully accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status — a globally respected professional qualification.
Graduate outcomes: Alumni progress into advanced research, postgraduate study, or applied industry roles, leveraging Bath’s strong reputation and international collaborations.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the BSc, you’ll be well-prepared to continue into MSc programs in mathematics, physics, or related interdisciplinary fields, or pursue a PhD in theoretical or experimental physics. Bath’s strong research culture and international partnerships also make it an excellent launchpad for postgraduate study at leading institutions worldwide.