Mathematics and Physics

This intensive four-year programme allows you to explore the logical interplay between mathematics and physics and split your time equally between the two. It is accredited by the Institute of Physics. Mathematics has gone hand-in-glove with physics since the time of Newton. Physics is widely conceived as the most fundamental of sciences in that all other branches can be said to derive from its theories and principles, but it couldn’t be studied without a strong working knowledge and appreciation of mathematics. As well as covering all the core theories and principles of physics, you will delve deep into the world of abstract mathematical ideas and explore their wide range of applications in the world around us.

You will be welcomed into a vibrant, friendly learning environment and guided by world-class researchers and teachers who offer generous office hours. While the joint degree is arguably more challenging than a single honours degree, it will equip you with an enviable set of skills to set you apart in the world of work. By combining physics and mathematics you will have the opportunity to approach mathematics from a more rigorous point of view, giving you a deeper understanding of the theoretical aspects of core physics topics such as quantum theory and general relativity. Because the first year of our BSc and MSci programmes is the same, you will have the option of transferring onto the second year of the three-year BSc programme if you prefer.

Our MSci course covers all of the core topics of a physics degree, although some of the laboratory components from the physics degree will be reduced to make way for the mathematics teaching. In years 3 and 4, you will have the flexibility to specialise more in physics or mathematics based study and research, according to your own interests. In your final year you will also have the opportunity to take your chosen area to a higher level through a major project and research review.

Our Department of Mathematics is internationally renowned for its work in pure mathematics, information security, statistics and theoretical physics, while our Department of Physics is one of the most respected centres for physics teaching and research in the UK, boasting cutting-edge laboratories and research facilities and dedicated technical support. There is an astronomical dome on the roof of the department and thanks to our parkland location, away from the big city, our telescopes enjoy the best observational capacities of the University of London campuses.

Take your mathematics and physics to the highest levels and undertake a major project and research review.

Learn from inspirational mathematicians.

Our physics research is expanding in new and exciting directions, including strategic partnerships with CERN, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), SNOLAB and industry at large.

Both departments put a real emphasis on small group teaching. You will be studying in a close-knit, friendly and supportive environment with a high staff to student ratio.

Our Department of Physics has been awarded IOP Juno Champion and Athena SWAN silver awards for best practice in promoting women in science and welcoming large cohorts of female students.

Course Modules

Core Modules

Year 1

• Calculus

• Calculus II

• Introduction to Pure Mathematics

• Linear Algebra I

• Scientific Skills

• Classical Mechanics

• Classical Matter

• Physics of the Universe

• Academic Integrity

Year 2

• Vector Calculus

• Ordinary Differential Equations and Fourier Analysis

• Linear Algebra II

• Scientific Computing Skills

• Quantum Mechanics

• Classical and Statistical Thermodynamics

• The Solid State

• Advanced Skills in Mathematics

• Advanced Skills in Physics

Year 3

• Optics

• Electromagnetism

• Advanced Skills in Physics

Year 4

• Research Review

• Major Project in Physics

• MSci Project in Mathematics

Optional Modules

Below is a taster of some of the exciting optional modules that students on the course could choose from during this academic year. Please be aware these do change over time, and optional modules may be withdrawn or new ones added.

Year 1

• All modules are core

Year 2

• Statistical Methods 2

• Probability Theory

• Graphs and Optimisation

• Ring Theory

• Group Theory

• Further Linear Algebra and Modules

• Complex Analysis

Year 3

• Mathematics Project

• Mathematics in the Classroom

• Number Theory

• Computational Number Theory

• Complexity Theory

• Principles of Algorithm Design

• Quantum Theory 1

• Quantum Theory 2

• Dynamics of Real Fluids

• Non-Linear Dynamic Systems

• Inference

• Time Series Analysis

• Markov Chains and Applications

• Channels

• Quantum Information and Coding

• Mathematics of Financial Markets

• Financial Mathematics II

• Combinatorics

• Error Correcting Codes

• Cipher Systems

• Cryptography

• Applications of Field Theory

• Nonlinear Dynamical Systems

Year 4

• Computational Number Theory

• Complexity Theory

• Principles of Algorithm Design

• Quantum Theory 2

• Statistical Inference

• Applied Probability

• Channels

• Quantum Information and Coding

• Financial Mathematics II

• Combinatorics

• Error Correcting Codes

• Cipher Systems

• Cryptography

• Applications of Field Theory

• Topology

• Lie Groups and Lie Algebras

• Statistical Mechanics

• Advanced Quantum Theory

• Photonics and Metamaterials

• Particle Accelerator Physics

• Theoretical Treatments of Nano-systems

• Nano-Electronics and Quantum Technology

• Standard Model Physics and Beyond

• Statistical Data Analysis

• String Theory and Branes

• Supersymmetry and Conformal Field Theory

• Astroparticle Cosmology

• Theory of Complex Networks

• Equilibrium Analysis of Complex Systems

• Dynamical Analysis of Complex Systems

• Mathematical Biology

• Elements of Statistical Learning

• Advanced Classical Physics

• Further Mathematical Methods

• Quantum Field Theory

• Modelling Quantum Many-Body Systems

• Advanced Condensed Matter

• Gravitational Wave Physics

• Dark Matter & Dark Energy

• Research Topics in Astrophysics

• Advanced Particle Physics

• Gravitational Waves Astronomy

• Advanced Astrophysics

• Order and Excitations in Quantum Materials

• Superconductors and Superfluids

https://www.royalholloway.ac.uk/studying-here/undergraduate/mathematics/mathematics-and-physics-msci/

The course has a flexible, modular structure and over the first three years you will take a total of 12 course units at a rate of four, 30-credit modules per year. In addition to our compulsory core modules you will be free to choose between a number of optional courses. Some contribute 15 credits to your overall award while others contribute the full 30. In your fourth year, you will be able to choose from a range of courses offered by other University of London colleges. You will also be required to complete a final year project to deepen your knowledge and appreciation of research methodologies in your chosen area of research.

We use a variety of teaching methods and there is a strong focus on small group teaching in the department. You will attend 12 to 15 hours of formal teaching in a typical week, including lectures, tutorials, problem-solving workshops, laboratory work and practical sessions. You will also be expected to work on worksheets, revision and project work outside of these times.

Our courses are mostly examined by two-hour written examinations at the end of the year but many include a coursework or in-class test element as well. Experimental work is generally assessed by written reports or oral presentation. A minimum of six of the eight course units must be passed each year, with a minimum score of 40%. In year 3 there are optional courses which are examined solely by a project and/or presentation. Outside of class time, you will be expected to work on group projects and independent study, with access to the College’s comprehensive e-learning facility, Moodle.