Key information
- UCAS code
- G1PH
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Delivery type
- Full Time
- Degree qualification
- BSc (Hons)
- Mode of delivery
- On-Campus
- Duration
- 4 years
- Location
- Edinburgh
- Start date
- September
The pursuit of mathematical physics not only unveils the fundamental structures of the universe but also propels technological advancements, providing a wide array of career opportunities across various industries. This makes it an incredibly versatile and intellectually rewarding field of study.
A grounding in mathematical physics opens doors to diverse career paths. From data science and finance, where analytical and problem-solving skills hold high value, to technology, where a detailed understanding of the origins and interactions of matter, forces, and space-time sparks innovation. Roles in engineering, research, academia, and specialized fields like quantum computing or renewable energy all greatly benefit from a background in this field.
Drawing on the expertise of the largest mathematical physics group in Scotland, this programme integrates the essential components of an outstanding mathematics degree with the precise mathematical language of 21st-century mathematical physics. The skills acquired will greatly benefit those pursuing further postgraduate study and will be highly prized by employers seeking mathematicians capable of describing and solving real-world problems.
Maths Café
The Maths Cafe is a peer supported initiative that allows maths students to seek help, ask questions or just chat about maths with their peers. The sessions are coordinated by the Maths Gym and organised and guided by peer mentors who are year 3, 4 and 5 maths students. Participants gain invaluable skills in teaching and communicating mathematics. The Maths Café provides support in the following areas:
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Help with difficult tutorial questions and exam revision
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Advice on how to manage your workload and organise studies
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Forming study groups and chatting about maths in an informal atmosphere
Your student experience
Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences
We are part of the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, a joint research institute bringing together within a single body the research activities of:
•The Department of Mathematics at Heriot-Watt University
•The Department of Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics at Heriot-Watt University
•The School of Mathematics at the University of Edinburgh
The Maxwell Institute promotes the development of new mathematical theory and tools meaning that the mathematics that we teach is up-to-date and relevant for solving current real world problems.
International Centre for Mathematical Sciences (ICMS)
ICMS is jointly owned by Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh, with support from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council of the UK. Its aims are to advance the mathematical sciences and highlight the impact of mathematical innovation, promoting interactions with other disciplines, industry and commerce. ICMS organises international workshops and conferences in all areas of mathematics and these attract leading mathematical scientists from across the globe.
Go Global
There are currently no Go Global opportunities for this particular programme. However, other Go Global opportunities may be available. Please contact studywithus@hw.ac.uk for more information.
Course content
September Intake - Edinburgh
Mandatory September
- Mechanics, Fields and Forces
- Calculus A
- Introduction to University Mathematics
- Topics in Statistical Practice
Mandatory January
- Waves and Matter
- Calculus B
- Problem Solving
- Elements of Probability
Fees and funding
| Status | Fee |
|---|---|
| Scotland | Paid by SAAS |
| England / Wales / N Ireland / Rep of Ireland | £9,250 |
| International | £19,456 |
- Status: Your residency status is usually defined as the country where you have been ordinarily resident for the three years before the start of your course.
- International: 'International' includes applicants from European Union countries who do not hold Pre-Settled or Settled status in UK. (This does not include students from the Republic of Ireland - see above).
Scholarships and bursaries
Bursaries for students from England, Northern Ireland or Wales
In addition to government loans and grants towards the costs of fees and living costs, we are offering generous financial support to attract and support eligible undergraduate students from England, Northern Ireland or Wales:
- Heriot-Watt University Bursary (up to £3,100 per year)
Entry requirements
We have standard entry requirements for all of our courses that you will have to meet.
Standard entry requirements
- Highers ABBBB (including Mathematics at A and Physics at B)
- A-Levels BBB – ABB (including Mathematics & Physics at B)
- Int. Baccalaureate 28 points (with Mathematics and Physics at Higher Level 5)
- BTEC DDM (including sufficient Mathematics and Physics)
- Please check that you meet our University-wide National 5/GCSE (or equivalent) English and Maths requirements.
Minimum entry requirements*
- Highers BBBC (including Mathematics and Physics at B)
- A-Levels BCC (including Mathematics at B and Physics at C)
* Minimum: under our Fair Access Policy, we will relax our standard entry requirements for some Scottish students depending on their circumstances. Our minimum requirements will apply if you:
- live in an area within the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation lowest 20% (SIMD20), or
- are care experienced.
We can also make exceptions for some Scottish students with grades above minimum but below standard. Read more about our Minimum and standard entry requirements
Why Heriot-Watt
We're the top university in Scotland for graduate outcomes which means that more of our graduates are employed or in postgraduate education than any other institution in the country and we ranked 5th in the UK.
We're also rated number one in the UK for CEO or MD roles, meaning more of our graduates go on to become CEOs or MDs than any other university in the whole of the UK. On top of that, we have beautiful campuses, across the globe, so you'll get a truly international education. Our Edinburgh Campus is home to Oriam, Scotland's National Sports Performance Centre combined with plenty of wellbeing resources, prioritising fitness and mental health for all students. Our Global Research Institutes look at solving real world issues such as climate change and saving our oceans as well as working on the next medical technological breakthrough and the future of AI and robots.
Employability
Work and study
Salary
Potential career paths
- Information Technology Professionals
- Natural and social science professionals
- Science, engineering and technology associate professionals
Student life
Explore facilities, and chat to staff and students
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