Mathematics and Physics BSc (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) in Mathematics and Physics is designed for students who wish to combine rigorous mathematical study with in-depth physics, preparing them for careers in research, engineering, data analysis, and other quantitative fields. It is ideal for students who enjoy applying mathematical techniques to understand the physical world.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Students begin with foundational courses in mathematics, including Introduction to Mathematics at University, Linear Algebra 1, and Introduction to Mathematical Analysis, alongside introductory physics courses such as Mechanics, Waves and Optics, and Experimental Physics. This year builds a strong base in both quantitative reasoning and fundamental physics concepts.

Year 2
The second year deepens understanding with mathematics modules like Several Variable Calculus and Differential Equations, Probability and Statistics, Computing and Numerics, and Fundamentals of Pure Mathematics. Physics courses include Electricity and Magnetism, Quantum Mechanics, and Thermal Physics, integrating mathematical methods with physical theory.

Year 3
In the third year, students focus on advanced mathematics and physics. Mathematics modules may include Honours Analysis, Honours Algebra, and Mathematical Modelling, while physics courses include Classical Mechanics, Statistical Physics, and Electrodynamics. Students also begin an independent project or dissertation applying mathematics to physics problems.

Year 4 (Honours completion)
The final year allows for specialised study in mathematics and physics. Advanced modules may include Applied Mathematics for Physics, Computational Methods, Advanced Quantum Mechanics, and Astrophysics. The year culminates in a major research project or dissertation, integrating both mathematical and physical approaches to a real-world problem or theoretical investigation.

Focus areas: Applied and pure mathematics, theoretical and experimental physics, computational modelling, research projects

Learning outcomes: Students will develop expertise in mathematical reasoning and problem-solving, quantitative analysis, and physical theory, with the ability to undertake independent research projects

Professional alignment (accreditation): Prepares students for careers in scientific research, engineering, data analytics, finance, or further academic study in mathematics and physics

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Edinburgh is highly regarded for both its School of Mathematics and the School of Physics & Astronomy, producing graduates with strong analytical and technical skills valued internationally

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Mathematics and Physics BSc at Edinburgh combines rigorous mathematical training with hands-on physics experience, allowing students to develop strong analytical, computational, and experimental skills. Students actively engage in laboratory work, problem-solving workshops, and research projects, bridging theoretical understanding with practical applications in physics and mathematics. The program emphasizes collaborative learning, computational modeling, and research-led teaching, preparing students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and research.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Interactive tutorials and workshops: Small-group sessions to solve mathematical and physics problems, develop modeling skills, and apply theoretical concepts.
Laboratory work: Access to physics laboratories for experiments in mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics, integrating mathematical analysis with physical measurements.
Computational tools and software: Training in programming and software such as MATLAB, Python, and simulation tools for modeling physics phenomena and data analysis.
Group projects: Collaborative assignments in both mathematics and physics that develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Final-year project: Students undertake an independent research project combining mathematics and physics under faculty supervision, often involving computational or experimental work.
Peer support and mentoring: Access to MathsBase, peer-assisted learning schemes (MathPALS), and physics support groups for collaborative problem-solving.
Research integration: Opportunities to connect with ongoing research at the School of Physics and the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences.
Optional study abroad: Students can choose to spend time at an international institution, gaining global academic exposure.
Facilities: Dedicated study spaces like MathsHub, specialized physics and mathematics laboratories, computing facilities, and access to specialized libraries support practical learning and research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the Mathematics and Physics BSc programme are prepared for careers in scientific research, engineering, data analysis, and finance. Common roles include research scientist, data analyst, quantitative analyst, and engineering consultant. This degree equips students with strong problem-solving, analytical, and computational skills that are highly valued across multiple industries:

University Services: The Careers Service provides tailored guidance, placement and internship support, CV and interview workshops, and access to alumni networks in science, engineering, and finance sectors.
Employment Stats & Salaries: Graduates typically earn around £30,000 within 15 months of graduation, with opportunities for higher salaries in research, technology, and finance roles.
University–Industry Partnerships: Students gain experience through applied projects, research collaborations, and lab-based work with industry and academic partners.
Long-term Accreditation Value: The degree provides a strong foundation for professional development and further academic qualifications in physics, mathematics, or engineering.
Graduation Outcomes: Students leave with strong theoretical knowledge, practical problem-solving experience, and research project skills, making them highly employable in both industry and academia.

Further Academic Progression:

Graduates can continue to MSc programmes in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, or Engineering.
For those aiming for advanced research careers, a PhD in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or interdisciplinary scientific fields is a natural progression.

Additional Information & Requirements

A-LEVEL: Typical offers range from A*A*A* to A*AB, including Mathematics at A* and Physics at B, with Further Mathematics preferred. Mathematics must have been completed within the past two academic years.
IB: Successful applicants score 38 points with 766 HL to 34 points with 765 HL, including HL Mathematics (AA) at 7 and HL Physics at 5. Mathematics must be recent within two years, and SL English at 5 is also required.
INDIA (CBSE / CISCE / STATE BOARDS): Students must have Class XII with five subjects and 80% overall, including 80% in required subjects, or 85% where an A-equivalent is needed. CBSE Applied Mathematics is not accepted for fulfilling the Mathematics requirement.
AMERICAN (GPA / AP / SAT / ACT): Entry requires ACT 27 + two APs at 4+, or SAT 1290+ with two APs at 4+, or three APs at 4+. A minimum GPA of 3.3 on the 4.0 scale must also be demonstrated on the high school transcript.
IELTS: Applicants need an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no band below 5.5, showing balanced proficiency. IELTS One Skill Retake is not accepted, so scores must come from one test session.
TOEFL: A TOEFL-iBT score of 92 is required, with at least 20 in each section to show all-round English ability. TOEFL MyBest Scores are not accepted, meaning results must come from one complete test sitting.
GCSE: Candidates must hold GCSE English at grade C or 4, demonstrating essential English competency. This requirement remains mandatory regardless of higher-level academic qualifications.
UCAS: All applications must be submitted via UCAS, with predicted grades and documents matching the university’s academic standards. Entries must be accurate, complete, and aligned with official transcripts.