Course summary

Our challenging BSc degree in Physics & Philosophy provides a robust foundation in both subjects. It enables you to explore the fascinating connections between these two subjects, which are at the forefront of expanding human knowledge and understanding. You will study the fundamental aspects of physics, including relativity, quantum mechanics, fields and waves, electromagnetism and nuclear physics. Studying philosophy will help you to develop your understanding of reality and our knowledge of it, as well as develop skills in reasoning and argument. Ours is one of the few physics and philosophy joint honours courses that follows an integrated approach to the two subjects, with modules in the philosophy of physics and philosophy of science, offering you a deeper understanding of some of the conceptual puzzles that you will encounter in your physics courses. You can also choose to study our MSci course, taking both subjects to Master’s level by adding a fourth year. During this year, you’ll get to choose from a huge array of modules, and undertake a substantial physics research project and philosophy dissertations on topics of your choice, enhancing key employability skills including project management, creative thinking, working as a team, and communication and presentation skills. Accreditation Our physics and philosophy degrees are recognised by the Institute of Physics (IOP). Graduates of recognised degrees are seen by the IOP as fully meeting the academic requirements for membership and as a route to professional qualifications like Chartered Physicist (CPhys). Key benefits

• Award winning: six former staff and students in the Physics department have won Nobel Prizes.

• 8th in UK for Physics & Astronomy (QS and Times Higher Education 2025).

• Study at the historic Strand Campus where Maxwell discovered electromagnetic radiation, Franklin took photo 51 confirming DNA’s structure and Wheatstone developed the electric telegraph.

• 6th in the UK for producing the most employable graduates (Times Higher Education Graduate Employability rankings 2025).

• 6th in UK for Philosophy and 9th in Europe (QS Subject Rankings 2025).

• One of the largest and most distinguished philosophy departments in the country.

• We offer an exceptionally wide range of optional courses, covering all areas of the history of philosophy and contemporary philosophy. Our emphasis on small-group teaching ensures you acquire critical thinking skills.