A level Typical offer
A*AAA*AA in three A levels including Mathematics and Physics with A* in Maths or Physics (or Further Mathematics if applicable).
Learn about the deep connections between mathematics and theoretical physics and develop your scientific computing and theoretical modelling skills to understand and solve complex physical problems.
During the course, you’ll learn about the fundamental theoretical physics describing the intertwining of space, time, matter and energy. You’ll develop and apply theoretical models, learn about active matter and general relativity, investigate nonlinear physics and quantum optics.
As well as gaining a deep knowledge and understanding of physics, you’ll graduate with strong experimental, mathematical and computational expertise. You’ll also gain powerful problem-solving, analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing you for a career in physics and many other fields as well.
You'll study the same units as for our Physics and Physics with Astrophysics courses in year one. In later years, core material expands to include more computational physics, further mathematics and foundational theoretical physics. This gives you the greatest flexibility and makes it possible to change between courses if your interests change once you're at Bath. It also allows you to modify your placement or study abroad options, or even whether you are on a bachelor’s or master’s programme after you've started.
In your final year, you’ll carry out a substantial project, choosing from a wide range of topics and types. You’ll study a wide-range of topics in theoretical physics, and you can also choose some broader options to enable you to experience a taster of a field you might be considering for graduate employment.
If you want a more in-depth study experience, you could consider applying for our MPhys Physics With Theoretical Physics course.
Our courses reflect the wide range of research activities in the Department. You’ll learn about nano-engines and organic electronics, investigate quantum optics, study the properties of graphene and the importance of symmetry in theoretical physics, and explore the structure and evolution of the Universe. We bring the latest developments in physics into our teaching, and you can get involved by working with us on your own research project.
All our courses give you experience of a range of professional skills to add to your CV, including problem-solving, communications, teamwork and research. We also have staff dedicated to supporting you in your search for a placement or a graduate job, including offering CV workshops and practice interviews.
You’ll learn experimental and computing skills in our well-equipped teaching labs. You can carry out projects with research equipment and high-performance computers in our specialist research labs. We also have strong links to research facilities and observatories in the UK and around the world.
With the combination of an analytical approach and practical problem-solving skills, physics graduates are in strong demand by employers. You'll be able to work in a wide range of careers in physics and beyond, such as:
Many of our graduates also go on to postgraduate study in preparation for academic or industry-based research careers.
Find out more about what our graduates go on to do.
You can find out more about studying a physics degree at Bath by visiting our Physics Virtual Experience page to hear from staff and students in the department.
Before you apply for a course, please check the website for the most recently published course detail. If you apply to the University of Bath, you will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
We understand that you will want to know more about the shape of the academic year. We work hard and plan for different scenarios, to be able to welcome you to the University of Bath at the start of each semester.
This course lasts 3 years. It starts in September 2023 and ends in 2026. Welcome week starts on 25 September 2023.
Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
At Bath, our courses are made up of units of study. Compulsory units cover core concepts that you'll need to understand as part of your degree programme. Some of our courses also offer the opportunity for you to study optional units. These allow you to specialise in particular areas of knowledge that interest you.
As an undergraduate, you will be expected to take 60 credits (ECTS) in each academic year. These are usually split into 30 credits for each semester you study. Sixty credits are the equivalent of 1200 notional hours of study; this includes contact time with staff and your own independent learning.
10 credits
20 credits
15 credits
15 credits
20 credits
15 credits
10 credits
5 credits
5 credits
5 credits
5 credits
5 credits
5 credits
5 credits
40 credits
As well as going on a research placement you can also choose the option of a professional placement or study abroad. You can take advantage of our links with industry and research institutions to gain extra experience for your CV, make new contacts or try out a career option.
You’ll be taught and assessed by a variety of methods and it will vary between units. These methods are designed to promote in-depth learning and understanding of the subject.
Timetabled contact hours, which may be made up of lectures, seminars, tutorials and laboratory classes, vary throughout your course and between courses but are typically between 18 and 22 hours a week in your first year.
Our teaching for this course is delivered through in-person learning on campus, supported by high quality online provision. A small proportion of these contact hours may be delivered online, with the significant majority taught on campus. This may be supplemented by additional activities such as a small number of online learning sessions (not live), skills development sessions, and personal tutorials.
The amount of timetabled sessions on campus in later years may vary based on the options you choose, with a greater emphasis on independent learning. Project and dissertation units will generally have fewer scheduled sessions to allow you time for your independent work – this may also mean the number of hours of timetabled sessions each week will vary within a year.
In addition to timetabled contact hours, you are expected to undertake independent learning and assessment activities. Typically, this might be around 13 – 22 hours per week in your first year, and include individual research, reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, preparing course working assignments, presentations, or revising for exams. After your first year, the emphasis on independent learning becomes greater, for example in a final year project.
You will be assessed by a range of methods designed to develop and test your skills and knowledge. These include closed and open book examinations, problem solving assignments, laboratory and computing assessments, project reports and presentations.
70 to 75% of your course will be assessed through examinations. 25 to 30% will be assessed through coursework, including practical work. The balance of assessment methods will vary throughout your degree.
In your final year you will carry out a project. You will primarily be assessed as an individual but may also be assessed as part of a group.
We can make reasonable adjustments to assessment procedures for students with disabilities, take a look at our Disability Service’s pages for information.
By studying a course with a professional accreditation, you could have the chance to get workplace experience, learn about new developments in the industry and apply for membership with the accrediting body. You may also be able to apply for jobs in the industry without having to do any more exams.
As well as being recognised as a higher academic qualification, a number of our degrees are also accredited by professional bodies in the United Kingdom. An accredited degree may entitle you to work in a specific profession within the UK, and abroad (where there are reciprocating arrangements with professional bodies in other countries).
The requirements to practise a profession vary from country to country. If you wish to practise your profession outside the United Kingdom, you are advised to confirm that the UK professional qualification you seek is valid in the country in which you are intending to work.
The United Kingdom currently subscribes to The Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications (MRPQ) Directive. The MRPQ Directive provides a reciprocal framework of rules which enables European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals to have their professional qualifications recognised in a state other than the one in which the qualification was obtained. In the event of a no deal Brexit, from 1 January 2021, the MRPQ Directive will no longer apply to the UK. However, it is anticipated that there will be a new system for recognising professional qualifications between the UK, EEA, and Switzerland.
‘Physics isn't just learning about how galaxies work. It's about being able to look at the problem and say how it all fits together.’
Your application, especially your personal statement, should demonstrate your enthusiasm for studying physics. This might include relevant reading, voluntary or work experience, areas of interest from your current studies or other relevant extra-curricular and co-curricular activities.
You will need a strong performance in both Mathematics and Physics as part of your entry qualifications.
We know that the context in which you are studying can have an impact on your ability to perform your best in exams and coursework, or limit which subjects or qualifications you are able to study at your school or college. We consider any application based on its merits, including your background and circumstances, including through:
A*AA in three A levels including Mathematics and Physics with A* in Maths or Physics (or Further Mathematics if applicable).
Most of our students will join us with three A levels, but you may have study beyond this (such as a project qualification or additional study in maths) which demonstrates your individual talents that will help you with your degree. We recognise these studies through our alternative offers.
AAA in three A levels including Mathematics and Physics plus one of:
If you receive an offer for this course and are studying one of these qualifications you will be given both the typical and alternative offer.
You can find out more about our alternative offers, including a complete list of qualifications we consider on our dedicated page.
36 points overall and 7, 6, 6 in three Higher Level subjects including Physics and either HL Mathematics.
We have a strong preference for applicants who offer Mathematics and Physics at Higher Level. We may be able to consider you if you are studying Physics or Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches at Standard Level (but not both). Our typical offer in this instance would be 36 points overall with 6, 6, 6 or 7, 6, 5 in three Higher Level subjects including 6 in Physics or either HL Mathematics plus 7 in Standard Level Physics or Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches.
We consider applicants studying the IBCP on a case-by-case basis based on the individual components studied. To be considered for this course you will need to study either Mathematics course at Higher Level alongside other HL courses and vocational study equivalent to two A levels. This vocational study can be any qualification we accept, such as a BTEC National Diploma (RQF) or BTEC National Extended Certificates (RQF). Your IB courses and vocational studies must include sufficient physical sciences content.
Our typical offer will including individual grades in the relevant components - please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk for further advice before you apply.
D*DD in the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (RQF) plus grade A in A level Mathematics.
Due to the mathematical content of the course, you will need A level Mathematics alongside your BTEC qualification. We are able to consider BTEC qualifications in Applied Science and you need to have studied as many units in Physical Science as possible. Please contact us to discuss the suitability of your units before making an application.
See the ‘Combinations of qualifications’ section for information about combinations of A level and BTEC qualifications that we can consider.
D*D*D* in the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (QCF) plus grade A in A level Mathematics.
Due to the mathematical content of the course, you will need A level Mathematics alongside your BTEC qualification. We are able to consider BTEC qualifications in Applied Science and you need to have studied as many units in Physical Science as possible. Please contact us to discuss the suitability of your units before making an application.
See the ‘Combinations of qualifications’ section for information about combinations of A level and BTEC qualifications that we can consider.
T levels are not considered suitable preparation for this degree programme and are therefore not accepted for entry. If you require advice on how you may academically prepare to study this degree or present with a mix of qualifications, you should contact our Admissions Progression Team at admissions-progression@bath.ac.uk.
D2, D3, D3 in three principal subjects including Mathematics and Physics with D2 in Mathematics or Physics.
Most of our students will join us with three principal subjects, but you may have study beyond this (such as a Global Perspectives course or additional study in maths) which demonstrates your individual talents that will help you with your degree. We recognise these studies through our alternative offers.
D3, D3, D3 in three principal subjects including Mathematics and Physics plus one of:
If you receive an offer for this course and are studying one of these qualifications you will be given both the typical and alternative offer.
You can find out more about our alternative offers, including a complete list of qualifications we consider on our dedicated page.
AA in two Advanced Highers including Mathematics and Physics.
We make offers based on Advanced Highers. You will typically be expected to have completed five Scottish Highers and your grades in these will be considered as part of your application. We prefer applicants who have achieved AAAAA in their Highers.
A pass in the Access to HE Diploma in Science or Science and Engineering, with at least 39 credits achieved at Distinction. This must include 12 credits achieved at Distinction from Mathematics units and 12 credits achieved at Distinction from Physics units.
Our Physics courses are academically challenging and require solid foundations of knowledge in Mathematics and Physics. We are able to consider Access to HE Diplomas in Science or Engineering, and we are looking for you to be studying a suitable level of Mathematics and Physics to be able to succeed in our courses. You will need to have studied Mathematics units worth at least 12 credits (including Calculus) and Physics units worth at least 12 credits, and your Access course specification will be reviewed thoroughly when we are considering your application. However, due to the time-limited nature of Access programme delivery, it is expected that you will have also completed a significant level of independent study in order to further develop and refine these skills. Most recent successful applicants have studied a significant amount of Mathematics independently, or completed some of the Mathematics A level syllabus alongside their Access studies.
Pass units worth 120 credits, including a minimum of Pass Grade 2 with 80% in both S112: Science: concepts and practice and a Level 2 Mathematics unit worth 30 credits.
Typically, we would be looking for you to have studied units worth at least 120 credits including at least 30 credits at Level 2. We would ideally be looking for you to be taking units including S112: Science: concepts and practice, MST124: Essential Mathematics 1 and MST224: Mathematical Methods. his information is a guide and we consider students applying with Open University Credits on a case-by-case basis. We will consider your application carefully and take note of any previous qualifications or relevant work experience. We may be able to consider alternative units to those listed. Please contact us to discuss your profile.
Taking OU credits may be counted as degree-level study by the Student Loans Company and therefore may be counted as previous study and have an impact on your ability to access student loans for the entirety of your chosen degree. We recommend that you discuss this in detail with the SLC before following this progression route to the University of Bath.
Your application will be considered individually based on the particular combination of qualifications and subjects that you are taking.
We can consider combinations of accepted qualifications, of which some common examples are:
We can also consider combinations that are not listed and that do not include A levels. You should read the information about essential and preferred subjects and subject combinations. We cannot consider different qualifications if they are in the same subject area.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5 in all subjects with 85% and 80% in Higher Mathematics and Physics.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
9.0 overall with 95, 90, 90 in three state exams including Mathematics and Physics with 95 in Mathematics or Physics.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept Advanced Placement Tests. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States of America' section. You will need to hold an English language qualification (such as IELTS) in place of ACT or SATR scores as we can only accept these for United States citizens.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
9.0 overall with 9.5, 9.0, 9.0 in three subjects including Mathematics and Physics with 9.5 in Mathematics or Physics.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An overall score of 95% in the scientific pathway with 10, 9, 9 in three subjects from your final report card including Mathematics and Physics with 10 in Mathematics or Physics.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
*An overall grade of 5 with 5 in four subjects including Mathematics and Physics at Advanced Level. *
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5.7 overall with 6.0 and 5.8 in Mathematics and Physics including at least one of these subjects in a state matriculation exam.
Any subject in your offer in which you do not take a state matriculation exam must be studied in your final year of school.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
AAA in three subjects including Mathematics and Physics.
We do not accept General Studies as one of these three subjects. We do not accept grade A- in place of grade A.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this programme for direct entry and our requirements are the same as for a Canadian Secondary School Diploma. These are listed in the 'Canada' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An average of 4.5 in the common core subjects and an average of 5 across six optional programme courses including 5 in Mathematics R1/NS1 and R2/NS2 and 5 in Physics 1 and 2.
These requirements are for the Specialisation in General Studies programme. Please contact us if you are taking a different programme
We consider your grades in final assessment for each subject, or in examinations where you do not have a final assessment for that subject.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Pass with A in 200 credits in Mathematics including Mathematics 4 or 5 and A in Physics 1 and 2 plus A in a further 800 credits and B in a further 800 credits.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Our requirements are currently under review. Please email admissions@bath.ac.uk if you need any further information.
We accept Advanced Placement Tests. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States of America' section.
We accept the IB Diploma and our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section. If you are studying a mixture of IB courses and College Board qualifications please contact us for advice.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Level 3 Diploma achieved with Excellence including one Level 3 subject with 18 credits at Excellence (E) and two Level 3 subjects with 14 credits at Excellence (E) including Mathematics and Physics.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
A weighted average mark of 11 with 10 in Mathematics A and Physics A.
If you sit written and oral examinations in a subject, you must achieve the required grades in both.
We may be able to consider your application if you are taking the Højere Handelseksamen (HHX), Højere Teknisk Eksamen (HTX), Højere Forberedelseseksamen (HF). Please contact us to discuss our requirements.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An overall average of 18 with 19, 18, 18 in three subjects including Mathematics and Physics, with 19 in either Mathematics or Physics.
Your subjects grades will be taken as an average of your school results and external exams where relevant.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
19 in the Apolytirion plus A*A in two A levels including Mathematics and Physics.
If you are studying any of the four subjects at an Advanced Level (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology), we may be able to consider you without the further GCE/PIA/CIE A level requirements. Please contact admissions@bath.ac.uk for further advice
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
H1, H1, H1, H2, H2, H3 in six subjects from the Irish Leaving Certificate with H1, H2 in Mathematics and Physics.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An average of 85% across four subjects with 85% in Mathematics and Physics.
We do not accept Physical Education as one of these four subjects.
These requirements are for the CBSE and CISCE boards. Please contact us if you are taking this qualification with a different board.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept Advanced Placement Tests. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States of America' section. You will need to hold an English language qualification (such as IELTS) in place of ACT or SATR scores as we can only accept these for United States citizens.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5 in Advanced Placement Calculus BC plus 5 in both Advanced Placement Physics 1 and Physics 2.
We assess applications from students taking AP examinations on an individual basis.
When assessing your application, we will also be looking for evidence of a high academic standard across a breadth of study, for example through additional AP Tests, your wider school curriculum and SAT or ACT scores if you have taken them.
If you would like advice about your own set of qualifications, please email admissions@bath.ac.uk
We do not accept SAT Subject Tests for direct entry to our degrees.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept Advanced Placement Tests. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States of America' section. You will need to hold an English language qualification (such as IELTS) in place of ACT or SATR scores as we can only accept these for United States citizens.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
88% overall with 9.0 in both Mathematics (5 periods) and Physics (4 periods) with 9.5 in either Mathematics or Physics.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
*Pass the relevant certificate with an ATAR or TER of 97 with grade A or 85 in Mathematics and Physics. *
We can accept any of the following school leaver qualifications meeting these requirements:
-Australian Capital Territory Year 12 Certificate -New South Wales Higher School Certificate -Northern Territory Certificate of Education -South Australian Certificate of Education -Tasmanian Certificate of Education -Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning -Victorian Certificate of Education -Western Australian Certificate of Education
Our requirements for the Queensland Senior Certificate of Education are:
*Overall Band Position of 1 with HA in Mathematics and Physics. *
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
77766 in five subjects with 85% in Mathematics, Advanced Programme Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
5*5 in Physics and one other elective subject plus 5* in core Mathematics and 5 in the Algebra and Calculus extended paper or 55 in Physics and one other elective subject plus 5* in core Mathematics and 5* in the Algebra and Calculus extended paper.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept Advanced Placement Tests. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States of America' section. You will need to hold an English language qualification (such as IELTS) in place of ACT or SATR scores as we can only accept these for United States citizens.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
An overall score of 16 with 16, 15 in two specialities in your final year including Mathematics and either Physics/Chemistry or Engineering Sciences.
If you are studying the International Option Baccalaureate (OIB), our typical offer is:
An overall score of 14 with 16, 15 in two specialities in your final year including Mathematics and either Physics/Chemistry or Engineering Sciences.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
AAA in three H2 level subjects including A in Mathematics and Physics.
We are unable to consider a Polytechnic Diploma for our Physics degrees.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept Advanced Placement Tests. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States of America' section. You will need to hold an English language qualification (such as IELTS) in place of ACT or SATR scores as we can only accept these for United States citizens.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
A score of 9 overall with 9 in Mathematics and Physics.
You must be studying Mathematics I and II from the science stream. We cannot accept Mathematics for Social Sciences for this degree course.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
1.3 overall with 14, 13 in Mathematics and Physics.
The required grades in Mathematics and Physics must be achieved in your final examinations if you take them. If you do not take one of these subjects in your final examinations, you will need an average grade across 4 semesters in it.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
CGPA of 85% with 85% in Physics and either Calculus or Mathematics in the final year.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
19 in the Apolytirion plus A*A in A level Mathematics and Physics.
We cannot accept the Apolytirion unless it is studied alongside A levels. We do not accept Pan Hellenic examinations in place of an A level.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Due to the variety, structure and grading of these qualifications, applications are welcomed from students with these qualifications but we consider them on on a case-by-case basis. If you are interested in applying, please contact us on admissions@bath.ac.uk for further advice. Please provide copies of your school reports within your email for our consideration.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept the European Baccalaureate and our entry requirements are listed under the 'European Baccalaureate' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of these qualifications alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept this programme for direct entry and our requirements are the same as for a Canadian Secondary School Diploma. These are listed in the 'Canada' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
90, 85, 85 in three extended subjects including Mathematics and Physics with 90 in either Mathematics or Physics.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of this qualification alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice.
We accept these qualifications whether you have studied them in the UK or abroad. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United Kingdom' section.
We accept Advanced Placement Tests. Our entry requirements are listed under the 'United States of America' section. You will need to hold an English language qualification (such as IELTS) in place of ACT or SATR scores as we can only accept these for United States citizens.
We accept the Indian 12th Standard and our entry requirements are listed under the 'India' section.
If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider an International Foundation Year.
The one-year University of Bath International Foundation Year International Foundation Year programme is licensed to and delivered by Bath College, our partner organisation in the centre of Bath. This course is accredited by the University of Bath and provides you with guaranteed progression to a University of Bath degree (subject to you achieving the required grades at the end of the programme).
We also accept International Foundation Years offered by other UK colleges and universities on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further advice.
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept students onto our degrees on the basis of these qualifications alone. You will need to take an additional course before applying to us. This could be A levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma or a recognised foundation course. Please contact us for further advice. If you have not studied qualifications we typically accept or you do not expect to meet our requirements in your current studies you may wish to consider a Foundation Year or if you are located here in the UK, explore the qualifications that may be available to you. Please contact us for further advice on admissions@bath.ac.uk
If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:
Fees and funding information for Physics with Theoretical Physics BSc (Hons)
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on whether you are a Home or Overseas student.
Learn how we decide fee statusFee information is not yet available for this course. Tuition fees are liable to increase annually for all University of Bath students.
If you choose to take 'Science education in practice' as an optional unit, you may need to pay for an enhanced DBS check and for travel to local secondary schools.
If you are studying an undergraduate course, you may be able to take out a loan for your tuition fees and living costs.
Read more about tuition fee loansYou could be considered for a bursary or scholarship to help you study at Bath. This is in addition to your student loan and you do not have to pay it back.
Read more about bursaries and scholarshipsYou can pay your tuition fees by Direct Debit, debit card, credit card or bank transfer. You may also be eligible for a student loan to help you pay your fees.
Read more about your payment optionsYou will need to budget at least £100 for the cost of photocopying, printing and binding. You will also need to budget for the cost of textbooks.
Some courses involve visits away from campus and you may be required to pay some or all of the costs of travel, accommodation and food and drink.
If you’re on a placement, you’re responsible for your own travel, accommodation and living costs. You should also consider the financial implications if you go on an unpaid or overseas placement.
We will usually assess you based on your UCAS application. If you are studying certain qualifications, such as an Access to HE Diploma or BTEC, you may be invited to attend an interview as part of our selection process so we can better assess your studies and experiences. If you are studying an Access to HE Diploma or BTEC Diploma/Extended Diploma, please make sure that your UCAS application is submitted by 25 January: if you apply after this deadline, then it may be too late for us to include you in our interview process.
Very exceptionally we may invite you to an interview if you have circumstances we cannot assess from an application alone.
Our interview page gives more information on what you should expect from an interview.
Learn more about studying at Bath
Visit our undergraduate virtual experience pageThe study of matter in motion has underpinned our understanding of the physical world, from Newton’s laws of motion to Einstein's theory of relativity. You will learn how these theories are developed and applied, taking a more mathematical approach than in pre-University courses, and explore the foundations of astrophysics, including the solar system, exoplanets, stars and galaxies. You’ll also learn how to analyse DC and AC electric circuits, to help support your experimental lab work.
You will advance your knowledge and understanding of fundamental areas of Physics, including quantum mechanics, states of matter, thermodynamics, vibrations & waves, optics and the laws of electromagnetism, developing a platform for your studies throughout your undergraduate course.
Physics and mathematics are disciplines with a natural affinity; mathematics lies at the heart of our understanding of the physical world, and the study of the equations of physics has motivated large areas of mathematical analysis. You will learn the core mathematical techniques required to study physics and explore how these can be applied to physical problems.
Experimental laboratory work, scientific computing, the understanding of measurement, data & applied statistics, scientific writing, presentation and problem solving are skills that are fundamental to your development as a physicist. You will work individually and in groups to advance your confidence and competence in these key areas, to provide a platform for higher-level project work in future years.
Building on Foundations of Physics 1, you will deepen your knowledge of key concepts underpinning our understanding of the physical world. You'll learn how quantum theory is built from a set of fundamental postulates that enable you to understand the properties of atoms and solids, how Maxwell’s equations unify the laws of electricity & magnetism and explain the properties of electromagnetic waves, and how simple counting rules make fundamental sense of the concepts of temperature and entropy.
One of the great things about physics is that the fundamental ideas, laws and theories hold from the smallest, most ephemeral sub-atomic particles to the largest scale structures in the Universe. You will explore the foundations of particle physics and nuclear physics, learn about the life cycle of stars and expand your knowledge of cosmological models and the Big Bang.
Vector calculus, Fourier analysis and methods to solve linear partial differential equations are important parts of the physicist’s mathematical toolbox. You will learn about these more advanced mathematical concepts and techniques, that will be applied in second year and higher-level Physics units, and further develop your problem-solving skills and understanding of mathematical results.
You will further develop your understanding of scientific computing, including the issues involved in applying a range of numerical methods. You will also strengthen your key physics skills through working in a team to investigate a physical phenomenon using theory, simulation and experimentation.
This unit is aimed at more theoretically-minded students who want to broaden their mathematical knowledge and skills, both for its own sake and for its application in higher-level theoretical physics units. You will study calculus of variations, Sturm-Liouville theory, Green’s functions and functions of a complex variable and see how beautiful mathematical physics can be!
In Semester 2 you can choose how you would most like to advance your physics skills, to provide a strong foundation for your extended project work in your final year. You will learn to use a high-level compiled programming language such as C++ to solve more complex scientific problems. You can also choose one of the following options: (i) Learning to use physical computing to control and measure electronic circuits and experiments; (ii) Using a range of data modelling techniques to analyse and visualise astrophysical “big-data” sets.
Classical Mechanics is an area of fundamental physics where a mathematical treatment is essential to appreciate the subject. You will study the underlying principles of the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms of classical mechanics, use these to formulate and solve a range of problems, and see the fundamental connection between symmetry and conservation laws. You'll also learn how the theory is extended to continuous fields, currently understood to be the most fundamental objects in nature.
You will further develop your knowledge of the concepts, techniques and applications of quantum mechanics, exploring how many-particle quantum systems are described, using approximation methods to calculate properties of stationary and time-dependent systems, and seeing how the postulates of quantum mechanics and special relativity lead to the Dirac equation and its solutions.
You will develop your knowledge and understanding of statistical mechanics and study how thermal fluctuations affect the structure and properties of condensed matter systems such as polymers, colloids and liquid crystals, on length scales ranging from the atomic and molecular to the macroscopic.
Symmetry and topology are fundamental concepts that underpin our understanding of the physical world, from the symmetry of space-time, the properties of molecules and crystals, the modes of optical fibres, to the recent discovery of topological insulators. You will be introduced to the mathematics of group theory, representation theory and topology, and explore examples of their application in describing and understanding physical systems.
You will carry out a substantial project in your final year, choosing from the wide range of projects (experimental, theoretical and computational) that are offered each year. Many projects are related to current departmental research, as well as some on more diverse topics, such as physics education. Alternatively, you can carry out an Industry Team Project, where you investigate a real-life scientific problem posed by an industrial client, or a Communicating Physics Project, where you design and deliver public engagement activities on an aspect of the Department’s research.