BSc Theoretical Physics

Institution University of Sheffield
Method At the institution
Location Sheffield
Type Undergraduate
Course fee By request

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BSc Theoretical Physics

Objectives Theoretical Physics uses mathematical and theoretical methods to explore the principles of physics. Our theoretical physics degree will give you a solid grounding an all areas of modern physics, while emphasising this theoretical approach to understanding the laws of physics.

Our BSc Theoretical Physics degree includes all the fundamental knowledge essential to the professional physicist, and will help you to develop the qualities and abilities physicists rely on. The three-year BSc is strongly focused on core physics knowledge and skills, but by providing a wide selection of options the course also offers you the opportunity both to add breadth to your studies and to deepen your knowledge in particular areas.
Entry requirements Entry requirements

GCE/VCE A Levels - ABB
Two GCE A Levels plus two GCE AS Levels - AB + BB
Scottish Highers - AAAB + AB in Advanced Highers
Irish Leaving Cert. - AABBB
BTEC Level N - 4 Distinctions and 2 Merits
International Baccalaureate - 33 points
Core Requirements - Grades AB in GCE A Level Physics and Maths, either way. GCE AS Level Maths cannot replace GCE A Level Maths
Academic title BSc Theoretical Physics
Course description Our students usually select from a range of compulsory and optional modules to add up to 120 credits.

Some departments offer courses that don't feature optional modules whereas other courses are fully flexible.

Important notice :
This is a list of modules that have been offered in the past. We expect similar modules to be offered for courses starting in 2009.

This information is provided for illustration only and you should check with the department directly when applying to confirm module options.

Typical First Year Modules

Module/Unit Credits
Fields, Waves and Quanta 20

Mechanics, Heat and Matter 20

Mathematics for Physicists 10

Introductory Mathematics for Physicists and Astronomers 20

Differential and Difference Equations 10

Further Subsidiary Mathematics 10

Mathematics with Maple 10

Matrices and Geometry 10

Mechanics in Action 10

Practical Calculus 10

Probability, Sets and Complex Numbers 10

Vectors and Motion 10

Typical Second Year Modules

Module/Unit Credits
Atomic Spectra and Relativity 10

Electromagnetism 10

Experimental Physics I 10

Mathematical Methods for Physics and Astronomy 10

Numerical and Computational Physics 10

Optics 10

Programming in C 10

Quantum Mechanics 10

Solids 10

Thermal Physics 10

Topics In Classical Physics 10

Extra-Solar Planets and Astrobiology 10

Galaxies 10

Introduction to Astrophysics 10

Physics in Medicine 1 10

Physics in Medicine 2 10

Stellar Structure and Evolution 10

The Dynamic Interstellar Medium 10

Vectors and Fluids 10

Typical Third Year Modules

Module/Unit Credits
Atomic and Laser Physics 10

Further Quantum Mechanics 10

Magnetism and Superconductivity 10

Mathematical Physics 10

Metals, Semi-conductors and Insulators 10

Nuclear Physics 10

Particle Physics 10

Physics Level 3 Project 1 10

Reading in Theoretical Physics 1 10

Statistical Physics 10

Techniques of Problem Solving in Physics 10

Advanced Radiation Physics 10

Aspects of Modern Physics (Half Module) 10

Dark Matter and the Universe 10

Differential Geometry 10

Milestones in Applied Mathematics 1: Electromagnetism 10

Nuclear Astrophysics 10

Physics in an Enterprise Culture 10

Physics of Semiconductors 10

Relativity and Cosmology 10