Course summary

Explore the deep philosophical questions raised by modern physics. You’ll cover most of the same topics as students on our standard physics courses, and choose from a wide range of philosophy topics. Explore the deep philosophical questions raised by modern physics, like what does quantum mechanics tell us about reality, and is our universe random, and does it matter? Run in partnership with the Department of Philosophy, your dual degree in Physics with Philosophy BSc at Sheffield blends topics from across these rich and diverse subjects. You’ll understand motion and religion, electricity and ethics, magnetism, quantum mechanics, art and death. In your first two years, you’ll do the essential physics that all of our students cover, and choose from a wide range of optional philosophy modules. In practical classes, you’ll run experiments using the equipment in our modern laboratories to help you understand how important theories apply to the real world. In optional programming classes you’ll absorb skills that are key to modern physics and valuable in many graduate careers. And our Department of Philosophy staff encourage students to engage with real world issues, meaning what you learn can be applied to make a difference in the community. Finally, in your third year, you can branch out into lots of different areas and complete your own research project in physics or philosophy – from astrophysics and dark matter, to free will and metaphysics – boosting your analytical, writing and presentation skills. Why study this course?

• No. 1 physics department in the UK - 100% of our research and impact was rated world-leading or internationally excellent by REF 2021.

• Sociable departments - because you’ll be taught across two departments, you’ll have double the options when it comes to your social life. In philosophy, you could join the philosophy society or be involved in the only UK undergraduate philosophy journal. In physics you might choose to join the Sheffield Space Initiative, and design a Mars rover or launch a rocket.

• Top 100 in the world for philosophy in the QS World Rankings 2023 - learn from world-leading staff, teaching an exceptionally diverse range of modules.

• Follow your ambition - you have the options to complete a research project, industrial group project, Quantum Information Lab, or Physics Education and Outreach project – giving you hands-on experience wherever your career aspirations lie.

• Take on the big issues - work with the Centre for Engaged Philosophy, researching areas of fundamental political and social importance, from criminal justice and social inclusion to climate ethics.