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Theoretical Physics

BSc (Hons) · 3 Years · Full-time · 23/09/2026 · UndergraduateMain Site

Course options

2026-2027
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Course summary

Theoretical physics uses mathematical methods to delve into the physics that governs our world and our universe. From developing cancer treatments and artificial intelligence to answering the fundamental questions of the universe, physics and physicists have had a significant impact across a variety of different industries – which is why it’s still such a sought-after and relevant discipline today.

Studying the theoretical physics degree at Leeds will provide you with a solid grounding in how mathematical methods are applied to physics topics alongside experience in conducting your own project work based on current research areas – including a collaborative research project in your final year. Throughout your degree, you’ll have access to excellent facilities right here on campus, including laboratories and teaching spaces in the Sir William Henry Bragg Building.

Our close industry links and innovative research activity ensure this course reflects the latest advancements and applications in physics. You'll graduate with the specialist knowledge, skills and experience necessary to launch a successful career in this highly valued profession, with a wide range of career options available to you.

Why study at Leeds:

  • This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).

  • Our School’s globally-renowned research feeds into the course, shaping what you learn with the latest thinking.

  • Learn from expert academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of physics areas.

  • Access specialist facilities including laboratories and teaching spaces right here on campus.

  • Our comprehensive approach to teaching will give you a holistic understanding of how physics, mathematics, computing and experimental learning link together to qualify you as a physicist.

  • Broaden your experience before you graduate and enhance your career prospects with our study abroad programmes and industrial work placement opportunities.

  • At the end of your second year, there is the possibility of transferring to the four-year integrated Masters (MPhys, BSc) course.

  • Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining our student society Physics Society (Physoc), a student-run society for physics students. It’ll give you the chance to meet like-minded students who share your passion for physics and enjoy a range of activities including guest lectures, trips and frequent socials.

Professional bodies

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

  • Physics, Institute of

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Main Site

Study options

  • BSc (Hons) • Full-time • 3 Years

Start dates

  • 23/09/2026

Apply by
14 January

This is the equal consideration deadline. You can still apply after this date, but your application may not receive guaranteed consideration.

Application codes

Course code:
F3K0
Institution code:
L23
Campus name:
Main Site
Campus Code:
-
Points of Entry:
Year 1

University of Leeds has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.

See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?

How to apply

Apply by
14 January

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application codes

Course code:
F3K0
Institution code:
L23
Campus name:
Main Site
Campus Code:
-

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1

Open days

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

A level - AAA

AAA including Physics and Mathematics. Where an A Level science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A Level at the stated grade. Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and International Project Qualification (IPQ): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers an A in the EPQ, IPQ or ASCC we may make an offer of AAB at A-level including A in Physics and Mathematics.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)

BTEC qualifications in relevant disciplines are considered in combination with A Level Physics and Mathematics. Applicants should contact the School to discuss.

Access to HE Diploma - D: 30 credits P: 15 credits

Overall pass of the Access to HE, with 45 credits at level 3. Of these 45 credits, 30 level 3 credits must be in Physics and Mathematics and must be passed with Distinction.

Scottish Advanced Higher - AA

AA at Advanced Higher in Physics and Mathematics with AABBB at Higher.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - 18 points

18 points at Higher Level to include 5 in Higher Level Physics and 5 in Higher Level Mathematics.

Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017) - H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2

H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2 including H2 in both Physics and Mathematics.

Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate - Principal - D3, D3, M2

D3, D3, M2 to include Physics and Mathematics.

GCSE/National 4/National 5

English Language grade 4 (C) or higher, or an equivalent English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English instead of GCSE English.

Find out more about qualification requirements for this course.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any one component.

Contextual admissions

Universities and colleges consider more than grades when assessing applications and may make offers based on a range of criteria. Learn more about contextual offers.

If the most common grade accepted is higher than our entry requirements, this is due to the attainment of our applicants. If you have been made an offer and you meet or exceed the grades of your offer, you will be accepted.

If grades lower than our entry requirements have been accepted, in most cases this is because we operate contextual admissions as part of our decision making, which considers factors beyond grades. For more information about contextual admissions, please visit our website.

Learn more on the University of Leeds website

Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

Data from:
This course and 6 other physics courses
Date range:
2022-2024

Grades held by accepted students

For University of Leeds, the top and bottom 5% of student grades have been removed from these calculations. This change helps to remove any extraordinary circumstances that could impact the data. Learn more here .
AAB Most common
  1. A*A*A
  2. Highest grades
  3. BBB
  4. Lowest grades

Offer rate for UK school & college leavers

94% Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.

How do you compare?

See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.

Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students

35 Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)

65 Go onto work and study

The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

For further information please see http://www.leeds.ac.uk/undergraduatefees

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