BSc Computational Physics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

If you're excited by the idea of solving real-world problems using physics, mathematics, and computer science, this program is built for you. The BSc Computational Physics blends theoretical physics with advanced programming and numerical methods — ideal for students who want to model everything from quantum systems to galaxies.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You’ll start with a solid foundation in physics, mathematics, and programming. Core modules include Physics 1A: Foundations and Mathematics for Physics 1, alongside Informatics 1: Introduction to Computation. Weekly labs and tutorials help you apply concepts in real time, from mechanics to basic coding.

Year 2
In second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of classical and modern physics while expanding your computing skills. You’ll take Physics 2A: Fields and Matter, Mathematics for Physics 2, and Informatics 2: Software Development. You’ll also choose between Experimental Physics 2 or Programming and Data Analysis, depending on your interests.

Year 3
This year focuses on advanced physics and computational techniques. You’ll study Thermodynamics, Statistical Mechanics, and Numerical Recipes, which teaches you how to implement algorithms for solving physical problems. You’ll also take part in group projects and independent coding assignments.

Year 4
In your final year, you’ll explore specialist topics like Computational Astrophysics, Quantum Mechanics, or Relativity and Cosmology. A major highlight is the individual research project, where you’ll apply your skills to a real computational physics challenge — often working with active research groups.

Focus areas

Numerical simulation, quantum mechanics, astrophysics, software development, data analysis, and mathematical modeling.

Learning outcomes

Graduates will master computational methods, develop strong programming and analytical skills, and gain experience in modeling complex physical systems and communicating scientific results.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This program is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IoP), supporting the pathway to Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status.

Reputation (employability rankings)

The University of Edinburgh ranks in the top 15 globally for Physics and Astronomy (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024), with strong graduate outcomes and employer recognition in computational science.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program is designed to make you a hands-on problem solver from day one. You’ll learn to model physical systems, write efficient code, and analyze real-world data using industry-relevant tools. Lab sessions, coding projects, and research-led teaching ensure you’re not just studying physics — you’re applying it across disciplines.

Here’s how Edinburgh brings computational physics to life:

Weekly lab sessions in Years 1 and 2, including Experimental Physics and Programming and Data Analysis, where you’ll work with real data and simulations
Informatics modules like Software Development and Numerical Recipes teach coding in Python and C++, with applications in physics modeling
Group projects and individual assignments develop teamwork and independent research skills, especially in Years 3 and 4
Final-year research project allows you to work with active research groups in areas like quantum computing, astrophysics, or condensed matter
Access to computing labs and digital tools at the School of Physics and Astronomy, including high-performance computing clusters
King’s Buildings campus houses specialist facilities, including the Nucleus Building and the University’s central physics labs
University libraries and online databases provide access to journals, simulation software, and scientific literature

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program are uniquely equipped to tackle complex problems at the intersection of physics, mathematics, and computer science. Many go on to careers as data scientists, quantitative analysts, software engineers, or computational researchers, applying their skills in sectors like finance, aerospace, energy, and AI.

Here’s how Edinburgh helps you take the next step:

Careers Service offers tailored support including one-to-one coaching, employer networking events, and access to internships and graduate schemes
Strong graduate outcomes: Edinburgh physics graduates are consistently in high demand, with many entering roles in R&D, tech, and data-intensive industries
Industry relevance: The program reflects the growing global demand for computational physicists in areas like climate modeling, quantum computing, and high-performance simulation
Institute of Physics accreditation supports your path toward Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status — a valuable long-term credential
Research-led teaching and final-year project prepare you for both industry and postgraduate research, with opportunities to work alongside active research groups

Further Academic Progression:
Many graduates continue with a master’s or PhD in Computational Physics, Quantum Technologies, or Data Science — either at Edinburgh or other top-tier institutions. The program’s strong foundation in numerical methods and simulation makes it an ideal launchpad for advanced study and research careers.

Additional Information & Requirements

From AAA to ABB in one set of exams. Required subjects The grades you use to meet our entry requirements must include the following at A level: Mathematics at A Physics at B
GCSE: English at C or 4
IB: 37 points with 666 at HL to 32 points with 655 at HL
IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component.We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
Indian: Award of Certificate with five subjects at Class XII, with an overall average of 80% or above and minimum 80% in all required subjects (or 85% where we require a grade A at SQA Higher). Grade XII CBSE Applied Mathematics is not accepted to meet a Mathematics subject requirement.
USA: Applicants are expected to complete the US High School Diploma plus one of the combination below to be considered for entry: Three APs at 4+ including required subjects; SAT Reasoning Test with 1290+ (650+ in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and 620+ in Math) plus at least two APs at 4+ including required subjects; ACT Score of 27+ plus at least two APs at 4+ including required subjects Or one year of University in the USA with a GPA of 3.25 (required subjects must be met)