Physics and Philosophy
Entry requirements
A level: A*AA to include Mathematics and Physics. The A* must be in Mathematics, Physics or Further Mathematics. IB: 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL (the 7 should be in either Physics or Mathematics)
About this course
MPhysPhil / BA in Physics and Philosophy, a physics and philosophy degree centred on foundational questions in science and the humanities. Core topics include Mathematical Modelling. Philosophy of Physics runs through the first three years, and students may complete the course in three years for a BA or continue for a fourth-year MPhysPhil. The first year introduces foundational concepts through Classical mechanics and special relativity, Mathematical methods, Differential equations and waves, General philosophy, Introductory philosophy of physics, and Philosophical topics in logic and probability. The second year builds upon this with Thermal physics, Electromagnetism, Quantum physics, Physics practicals, Philosophy of Science, and Philosophy of special relativity. Year 3 involves modules such as Symmetry and relativity, General relativity, Classical mechanics, Philosophy of quantum mechanics, Atomic and laser physics, Condensed matter physics, Fluids, and Nuclear and particle physics, alongside computational and experimental projects. The fourth-year options allow specialisation in either Physics or Philosophy, or a continuation of combined study including advanced work in the Philosophy of Physics.
Modules
- Classical mechanics and special relativity
- Mathematical methods
- Differential equations and waves
- General philosophy
- Introductory philosophy of physics
- Philosophical topics in logic and probability
- Thermal physics
- Electromagnetism
- Quantum physics
- Physics practicals
- Philosophy of Science
- Philosophy of special relativity
- Symmetry and relativity
- General relativity
- Classical mechanics
- Philosophy of quantum mechanics
- A choice of one from the following: Early Modern Philosophy; Knowledge and Reality; Philosophy of Mind; Philosophy of Logic and Language; Philosophy of Mathematics; Philosophical Logic
- The remaining core subject not chosen
- Atomic and laser physics
- Computational and experimental projects
- Condensed matter physics
- Fluids
- Nuclear and particle physics
- Or one Philosophy paper from a range of options