BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Physics (with a year abroad)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of York

Program Overview

This program is perfect for students who want to combine rigorous mathematics with advanced physics, gaining a strong foundation in both disciplines while experiencing international study. It suits those aiming for careers in science, technology, or research, offering a balance of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and global perspective.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

Your first year consolidates core knowledge in both mathematics and physics. You’ll study Classical Mechanics and Laboratories, Classical and Quantum Waves, Electromagnetism and Relativity, and mathematical modules such as Foundations and Calculus, Multivariable Calculus and Matrices, and Mathematical Programming and Skills. To prepare for your year abroad, you’ll also take a European language module at intermediate or advanced level.

Year 2

In the second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of physical laws and mathematical techniques. Core modules include Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism, Classical Dynamics, Statistical and Solid State Physics, and Quantum, Atomic, Nuclear and Particle Physics. On the mathematics side, you’ll advance with Vector and Complex Calculus and Quantum and Continuum Dynamics, building the analytical skills needed for higher-level study.

Year 3 – Year Abroad

You’ll spend your third year at one of York’s prestigious partner universities abroad. This immersive experience boosts your confidence, independence, and language skills, while exposing you to new academic perspectives and cultural contexts.

Year 4

Your final year introduces advanced concepts and research opportunities. You’ll complete either an Extended Independent Project in Mathematics or a BSc Research Project and Skills in Physics, conducting original research. Alongside this, you’ll choose four option modules such as Plasma Physics and Fusion, Relativity and Cosmology, Quantum Science and Technologies, Cryptography, or Mathematical Modelling: Nonlinearity, Uncertainty, and Computational Methods, tailoring your degree to your interests.

Focus Areas

Classical mechanics, quantum physics, relativity, thermodynamics, solid state physics, advanced mathematical modelling, cosmology, cryptography.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to apply advanced mathematical reasoning to physical theories, investigate unseen problems using systematic methods, communicate complex concepts clearly, and adapt confidently to international academic environments.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by both the Institute of Physics (IOP) and the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), putting you on track to become a Chartered Physicist or Chartered Mathematician.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

100% of York’s physics research outputs rated 3 and 4** (REF 2021, Times Higher Education)
14th in the UK for Mathematics (Complete University Guide 2023)
York is one of only four UK universities rated Gold for teaching and top ten for research (Times Higher Education REF 2021 ranking).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This program is designed to give you more than just theory — you’ll gain practical skills through laboratory training, advanced mathematics, and international study. From your first year, you’ll be working with specialist facilities and digital tools, and by your year abroad, you’ll be immersed in a new academic environment that broadens your perspective and enhances your employability. Here’s how experiential learning is built into the course:

Specialist Laboratories: Practical training in Classical Mechanics and Laboratories and advanced physics labs, where you’ll explore electromagnetism, relativity, and quantum waves.
Programming & Digital Tools: Modules such as Mathematical Programming and Skills introduce you to computational methods and software used in mathematical modelling and physics simulations.
Group Projects: Collaborative coursework in both mathematics and physics develops teamwork and communication skills, preparing you for international research collaborations.
Year Abroad: A full year at one of York’s partner universities overseas, giving you exposure to new teaching styles, research approaches, and cultural experiences.
Independent Research Project: In your final year, you’ll undertake either an Extended Independent Project in Mathematics or a BSc Research Project in Physics, applying your skills to original research.
Libraries & Learning Resources: Access to the University of York Library, with extensive collections in mathematics, physics, and computational science, plus digital resources to support your research.
Institutes & Research Centres: Opportunities to engage with York’s internationally recognised centres in mathematics, physics, and quantum technologies, ensuring you’re part of a vibrant research community.
Careers Support: The Careers and Placements team provides tailored support, including CV workshops, employer networking events, and guidance for international opportunities linked to your year abroad.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of York’s Mathematics and Physics program are highly valued for their ability to combine analytical reasoning with advanced scientific knowledge. Typical career paths include data analyst, research scientist, financial modeller, and software developer, with many graduates also moving into engineering, education, and consultancy. The year abroad adds international experience, making you stand out in a competitive global job market:

University Careers Service: York’s Careers and Placements team provides tailored support, including CV workshops, employer networking events, and access to exclusive internships. The team also helps students prepare for international opportunities linked to the year abroad.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: York graduates enjoy strong employability outcomes, with Physics and Mathematics graduates typically securing roles with starting salaries in the range of £26,000–£32,000, rising significantly in research, finance, and technology sectors.
University–Industry Partnerships: York is part of the White Rose Mathematics Consortium and collaborates with industry leaders in physics and engineering through the School of Physics, Engineering and Technology. These partnerships connect students to employers in aerospace, computing, and advanced materials.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by both the Institute of Physics (IOP) and the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), meeting the educational requirements for Chartered Physicist or Chartered Mathematician status.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni progress into roles across science, technology, and finance, including quantum technologies, cryptography, aerospace consultancy, and applied mathematics research, while others move into teaching or postgraduate study.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BSc, students can continue into MSc or PhD programs in mathematics, physics, or interdisciplinary fields such as quantum technologies, data science, or mathematical modelling. York’s internationally recognised research centres in mathematics, physics, and quantum science provide excellent opportunities for further study, while graduates also secure places at leading universities worldwide.