Mathematics and Physics

Physics and mathematics are inextricably linked. It is not really possible to understand the basic concepts of physics such as elementary particle theory without a strong grounding in both pure and applied mathematics. This BSc combines the study of mathematics and physics on an equal basis, each reinforcing the other.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

In the first and second years of the programme you will cover a balanced selection of modules in both UCL Mathematics and UCL Physics & Astronomy. Having laid the basic foundations there is a wide range of modules from both subjects in the third year of the degree. Most of the modules will be selected from those followed by single-subject students. Students taking this programme do not have to do any practical work, although this is possible if so desired.

This programme is offered as a three-year BSc or a four-year MSci degree. The first two years of the programme are identical, and students are advised to apply for the MSci degree in the first instance, as it is possible to transfer to the BSc during the first three years.

A levels

Grades

A*A*A, or A*AA and a 1 in any STEP paper or distinction in Mathematics AEA

Subjects

Mathematics and Further Mathematics required at A*, or one of Mathematics or Further Mathematics at A* if STEP or AEA offered. Physics also required.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

39-40

Subjects

A score of 20 points in three higher level subjects including 7 in Mathematics and at least 6 in Physics, or 19 points in three higher level subjects including 7 in Mathematics and at least 6 in Physics and a 1 in any STEP paper or a distinction in Mathematics AEA, with no score below 5.