Physics with Philosophy MPhys
AAA at A level, Physics and Mathematics; graduates earn a median £30,000 three years on.
Typical A level offer
AAA
Physics and Mathematics · 97% of entrants came with A levels · 89% stay on after year 1 · York course page, Discover Uni
Year 13 · applying
What do you need to get in?
AAAtypical A level offer; aaa including physics and mathematics.
Typical offer — the grades most applicants are asked for. Contextual offer: ABB, for applicants from under-represented backgrounds.
York course page, read 19 September 2026 · Discover Uni entry profile
- 1Physics and Mathematics
Who actually got in: 97% with A levels, 1% with other higher education. 3% arrived with 208 or more UCAS tariff points — roughly A*A*A or better. Based on 145 entrants.
UCAS tariff points — a points scale for grades: A* = 56, A = 48, so A*A*A = 160. Entrants’ totals include extra subjects.
Other qualifications3
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| IB | 36 points36 points overall, including 5 in Higher Level Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) or 6 in Standard Level Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches), plus 5 in | 5 in Higher Level Mathematics |
| Scottish Highers | AB | — |
| Advanced Highers | AB in Physics and Mathematics plus | — |
Years 1–4
What do you study?
6compulsory modules in year 1
Compulsory modules this year: natural sciences 27% · mathematics & statistics 22% · language & communication 20% · arts & humanities 17%.
Module — one course unit, usually a term or a year long; “core” means everyone takes it. One UK credit is about ten hours of study; a full year is 120 credits.
York course page · optional modules vary by year
Year 1 · 6 core · 120 credits ≈ 1,200 hours
- Logic
What you learn (6)
- explain core logical concepts including validity, consistency and necessity
- translate simple arguments into truth-functional logic notation
- apply truth-tables to assess tautological validity of arguments
- translate complex arguments into first-order logic notation
- construct a counter-interpretation to refute validity of a first-order logic argument
- construct a formal proof demonstrating validity of a first-order logic argument
- Knowledge and Perception
What you learn (2)
- explain differing theories of the nature of knowledge
- explain differing accounts of how knowledge is acquired
- Classical and Quantum Waves
What you learn (5)
- formulate wave phase and amplitude using complex-exponential and trigonometric forms
- construct mathematical models of interference, diffraction and resonance
- apply wave theory to real-world oscillators and optical systems
- explain how quantum waves differ from classical wave theory
- solve one-dimensional time-independent problems using the schrodinger equation
- Electromagnetism and Relativity
What you learn (15)
- describe electromagnetic fields as vector quantities
- explain how forces act on charges within electric and magnetic fields
- relate scalar potential functions to electric fields and potential energy
- calculate electric fields produced by charge distributions
- calculate magnetic fields produced by current distributions
- calculate potential energies associated with charge and current distributions
- apply Maxwell's equations in integral form to solve physical problems
- apply Maxwell's equations in differential form to solve physical problems
- explain how Maxwell's equations predict electromagnetic waves
- describe the postulates of special relativity
- derive the Lorentz transformations from relativity postulates
- solve problems involving time dilation for objects in relative motion
- solve problems involving length contraction for objects in relative motion
- solve problems involving relativistic energy of moving objects
- solve problems involving relativistic momentum of moving objects
- Mathematical, Computational and Professional Skills 1
What you learn (23)
- distinguish scalar quantities from vector quantities
- apply vector methods to analyse physical systems
- explain why complex numbers are useful in physics
- apply complex numbers to find roots of polynomials
- explain the concepts of differentiation and integration in one dimension
- compute derivatives and integrals using standard techniques
- explain the meaning of a partial derivative
- calculate partial derivatives in multivariable series expansions
- explain the significance of first and second order differential equations
- solve differential equations to analyse physical systems
- construct a basic python script
- apply a python script to solve a physics problem
- explain how physics skills prepare students for future employment
- communicate ideas about career preparation effectively
- reflect on personal skills to plan professional development as a physicist
- describe the concept of scientific enterprise and roles available to physicists
- engage in personal development activities relevant to physics careers
- apply basic probability concepts to physical problems
- apply binomial, poisson and normal distributions to data
- calculate errors and standard error in measurements
- identify ethical issues relevant to scientific practice
- use computer software for numerical analysis in physics
- use computer software to create graphs in physics
- Mathematical, Computational and Professional Skills 2
What you learn (13)
- compute multiple integrals in cartesian, spherical and cylindrical coordinates
- apply multiple integration to solve a physical problem
- define the fourier series of a periodic function
- derive the fourier transform from a fourier series
- describe directional rates of change of scalar and vector fields
- apply python programming to model physical systems
- apply python programming to analyse data
- use office software to produce scientific presentations
- communicate physics concepts in written form
- communicate physics concepts orally
- reflect on personal development through communication
- work independently to complete tasks
- collaborate effectively within a team
Year 2 · 5 core, 9 optional · 100 credits ≈ 1,000 hours
- Philosophy of Science
What you learn (10)
- explain key problems and debates in philosophy of science
- express philosophical understanding in clear accessible language
- generate alternative solutions to philosophy of science problems
- present alternative viewpoints in an open-minded manner
- construct arguments supporting alternative philosophical solutions
- identify weaknesses and development points in philosophical arguments
- judge the most convincing position on a philosophical problem
- defend a chosen philosophical position with argument
- evaluate own work against departmental marking criteria
- apply feedback-based strategies to improve own work
- Quantum, Atomic, Nuclear and Particle Physics
What you learn (32)
- interpret the time-dependent schrodinger equation
- derive the time-independent schrodinger equation from the time-dependent form
- construct quantum operators for physical observables
- calculate eigenfunctions and eigenvalues for multidimensional quantum systems
- calculate expectation values for quantum systems
- determine how quantum states evolve over time in multidimensional systems
- apply quantum mechanics to particles in symmetric potentials
- discuss quantum numbers arising from potential symmetries
- relate quantum system behaviour to the postulates of quantum mechanics
- describe atomic physics models
- define degeneracy in quantum systems
- calculate degeneracy in atomic systems
- use spectroscopic notation to describe atomic states
- explain how spectroscopic measurements are obtained
- construct and compare atomic energy level diagrams
- apply selection rules to atomic transitions
- describe the standard model particles including fermions and bosons
- illustrate particle interactions using feynman diagram vertices
- derive baryon and meson properties from quark substructure
- discuss the origin of hadron substructure
- discuss the properties of leptons
- illustrate leptonic decay modes using feynman diagrams
- determine conservation laws in standard-model reactions from feynman diagrams
- relate hadron decay modes to their quark structure
- discuss the significance of standard model particles in atomic and nuclear systems
- apply the semi-empirical mass formula to explain the chart of nuclides
- discuss key physics concepts of nuclear reaction and decay processes
- apply nuclear physics concepts to calculate decay and reaction quantities
- determine energies involved in nuclear reactions and processes
- relate nuclear energy quantities to nuclear stability and drip lines
- apply shell model rules to predict nuclear quantum properties
- discuss nuclear force properties in terms of exchange particles
- Mathematics, Professional Skills and Introduction to Laboratories
What you learn (17)
- apply matrix methods to solve simultaneous equations
- calculate eigenvectors and eigenvalues of a matrix
- evaluate personal professional attributes valued by employers
- communicate information and ideas to support employability
- design a plan to achieve career objectives
- identify ways to involve others in achieving professional goals
- evaluate personal strengths and competencies relevant to a career sector
- produce a CV and cover letter tailored to a target sector
- use databases to find and evaluate relevant information
- respond appropriately to peer expectations in group settings
- use python libraries to implement computational algorithms
- develop python code to solve physics problems
- plan and conduct extended laboratory experiments
- process and analyse experimental data using appropriate methods
- assess sources of experimental error
- critically discuss experimental results
- present experimental findings clearly to an audience
- Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism
What you learn (9)
- explain key principles of electromagnetism
- describe standard mathematical formulations used to express electromagnetic laws
- apply Maxwell's equations to analyse electromagnetic phenomena
- use mathematical and computational tools to solve unfamiliar electromagnetism problems
- solve problems relating to heat and work transfer
- calculate changes in entropy for thermodynamic systems
- calculate thermodynamic properties of solids, liquids and gases using equations of state
- apply simplifying assumptions to model material behaviour
- explain how materials undergo phase changes
- Statistical and Solid State Physics
What you learn (6)
- derive macroscopic material properties from particle-level statistical models
- describe classical and quantum statistical distributions
- solve physics problems using statistical distribution functions
- apply statistical methods to analyse real physical systems such as solids
- describe crystalline microscopic ordering using lattice terminology
- apply electron behaviour models to distinguish insulators, metals and semiconductors
9 optional modules
- Religious Ethics
What you learn (10)
- explain key problems and debates in religious ethics clearly
- formulate alternative solutions to religious ethics problems
- present alternative viewpoints with an open mind
- construct arguments supporting different ethical positions
- identify weaknesses and development points in ethical arguments
- judge the most defensible position on an ethical issue
- defend a chosen ethical position with reasoned argument
- appraise own work against assessment criteria
- apply feedback-based strategies to improve academic work
- evaluate contemporary ethical and cultural issues critically
- Applied Ethics
What you learn (8)
- explain key problems and debates in applied ethics clearly
- formulate alternative solutions to applied ethics problems
- construct arguments supporting alternative ethical solutions
- identify weaknesses and development points in ethical arguments
- justify a personal judgement on an applied ethics problem
- evaluate own work against departmental marking criteria
- apply feedback-based strategies to improve written work
- analyse contemporary social and political issues using ethical reasoning
- Aesthetics
What you learn (7)
- communicate philosophical ideas clearly and accessibly
- generate alternative solutions to problems in philosophy of art
- present varied perspectives on aesthetic issues with open-mindedness
- construct arguments supporting alternative views in philosophy of art
- identify weaknesses and potential improvements in philosophical arguments
- evaluate competing views to determine the strongest position on an aesthetic problem
- defend a chosen philosophical position with reasoned argument
- The Limits of Reason: Kant's Theoretical and Practical Philosophy
What you learn (10)
- explain Kant's theory of a priori knowledge and the phenomena/thing-in-itself distinction
- describe Kant's account of pure and practical reason, free will and determinism
- explain Kant's concepts of the good will and the categorical imperative
- interpret primary philosophical texts in translation
- reconstruct philosophical arguments from historical source texts
- evaluate Kant's claims and arguments using secondary literature
- formulate original critiques challenging Kant's philosophical arguments
- articulate personal philosophical ideas on the module's themes
- paraphrase Kant's ideas using one's own words
- describe the significance of Kant's work within the history of philosophy
- Politics and Freedom: Anarchism and Conservatism
What you learn (5)
- describe the core beliefs of various conservative and anarchist traditions
- explain the reasoning underlying different conservative and anarchist positions
- explain the philosophical arguments that motivate conservatism and anarchism
- identify value-theory issues underlying debates on conservatism and anarchism
- articulate the central questions in debates on political authority, tradition and liberty
- Logic and Paradox
What you learn (6)
- describe a range of logical paradoxes
- evaluate proposed solutions to logical paradoxes
- apply non-classical logical systems to problems
- judge the relative merits of different non-classical logics
- discuss module topics constructively with peers
- defend a reasoned position on course topics in writing
- Knowledge and Social Sciences
What you learn (5)
- evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of social research methods
- explain theories of how social reality is constructed
- justify a personal position on the extent and boundaries of social knowledge
- identify hidden conceptual and normative assumptions in social theories
- analyse the assumptions underlying social science methods and arguments
- Love, Law, and Solidarity: Recognition from Rousseau to Honneth
What you learn (4)
- describe major debates and arguments in the philosophy of recognition
- evaluate the strength of arguments supporting recognition theory positions
- formulate a personal philosophical position on recognition debates
- present a reasoned philosophical argument clearly in writing or discussion
- Being and Reason
What you learn (11)
- explain key issues in Spinoza's philosophical system
- express philosophical understanding clearly and accessibly
- formulate alternative solutions to problems in Spinoza's philosophy
- present alternative philosophical solutions with open-mindedness
- construct arguments supporting alternative solutions to philosophical problems
- identify weaknesses and development points in philosophical arguments
- judge the most convincing view on a Spinozist problem
- defend a chosen philosophical position with argument
- appraise own work against departmental marking criteria
- apply feedback-based strategies to improve academic work
- interpret philosophical texts with sensitivity to cultural and historical context
Year 3 · 2 core, 32 optional · 40 credits ≈ 400 hours
- Philosophy of Physics
What you learn (6)
- explain key concepts of classical mechanics such as inertial frames
- explain relativistic concepts including space, time and simultaneity
- explain quantum phenomena such as wave-particle duality and entanglement
- analyse how key physical concepts interact within physical theories
- evaluate the influence of these concepts on the scientific world-view
- apply core philosophical reasoning skills to analyse arguments
- Classical Mechanics and Advanced Laboratories for Physics with Philosophy
What you learn (15)
- explain how postulates of newtonian mechanics enable mathematical formulation of problems
- apply concepts of force, torque and energy to formulate motion equations
- apply momentum, angular momentum and moments of inertia to describe rotating systems
- solve linear mechanics problems using kinematic and dynamic methods
- solve rotational mechanics problems using kinematic and dynamic methods
- describe common statistical methods used in experimental analysis
- generate simulated experimental samples using monte carlo methods
- explain the principles underlying data analysis techniques
- perform advanced data analysis using origin or python-based software
- interpret data analysis results using statistical reasoning
- research background concepts relevant to an experiment or simulation
- design a plan for conducting an experiment or simulation
- carry out an extended experiment or simulation using appropriate techniques
- process and analyse experimental data using suitable methods
- discuss philosophical issues related to a laboratory experiment topic
32 optional modules
- Advanced Sensors and Instrumentation
What you learn (11)
- analyse how sensors convert physical quantities into measurable signals
- describe the operating principles of various sensor types
- identify limitations of different sensor technologies
- explain how sensors contribute to control system design
- analyse how application requirements determine sensor selection
- design a basic control system for a sensing application
- explain advanced technical concepts clearly and precisely
- evaluate advanced technical concepts for accuracy
- apply appropriate mathematical techniques to solve complex problems
- apply problem-solving and critical analysis skills to engineering tasks
- apply mathematical skills to analyse engineering problems
- Mobile Communications and Internet Protocols
What you learn (24)
- describe the historical development of the internet
- identify the layers of network protocol stacks
- evaluate error control techniques used on the internet
- evaluate flow control techniques used on the internet
- evaluate error detection techniques used on the internet
- evaluate different multiple access protocol types
- design ip address allocation schemes and routing tables
- explain the function of key network protocols such as ip, tcp and dhcp
- describe tcp congestion control mechanisms
- describe the domain name system and naming conventions
- investigate different routing algorithms and protocols
- discuss key characteristics of mobile communication standards
- explain the motivation behind successive mobile generation standards
- assess alternative traffic modelling approaches for mobile networks
- specify suitable traffic models meeting quality of service requirements
- apply propagation models to dimension mobile network cells
- design a frequency-reuse strategy for a mobile network
- propose methods to enhance capacity of deployed mobile networks
- describe methods to mitigate interference in multiple access systems
- evaluate the capacity of fdma, tdma and cdma scenarios
- describe principal features and technologies of mobile standards
- discuss advanced technical concepts clearly and accurately
- apply mathematical techniques to evaluate communication system performance
- apply problem solving and critical analysis skills to engineering problems
- Introduction to Clinical Engineering and Physiological Systems
What you learn (5)
- apply medical technologies for patient prevention, diagnosis and treatment
- explain physiological concepts relevant to medical technology applications
- describe the process of adopting new technology in healthcare organisations
- solve problems using critical analysis in healthcare technology contexts
- evaluate the efficacy of a proposed solution for real-world suitability
- Contemporary Issues in Bioethics
What you learn (5)
- describe recent advances in biomedicine
- apply philosophical theory to issues in biomedicine
- critically read philosophical texts
- present written philosophical arguments
- participate in philosophical discussion
- Foundations of Mathematics
What you learn (7)
- explain the historical crisis in mathematical foundations
- describe the emergence of logicism, intuitionism and formalism
- describe the core claims of logicism, intuitionism and formalism
- explain debates between Platonism and anti-Platonism in mathematics
- evaluate the indispensability argument against anti-Platonism
- critically analyse complex philosophical texts
- construct and defend a reasoned philosophical argument
- Consciousness
What you learn (7)
- describe the explanatory problem posed by consciousness
- explain major theories proposed to account for consciousness
- write clearly and coherently on a chosen consciousness topic
- identify key debates relevant to a chosen consciousness topic
- analyse how arguments support or undermine opposing positions
- formulate competing philosophical positions on consciousness
- evaluate the relative merits of these positions to reach a conclusion
- Action and Agency
What you learn (6)
- explain why action is a central concept in philosophy of mind
- articulate the implications of action's central role in philosophy of mind
- explain how reasons relate to actions
- evaluate competing philosophical theories of action
- interpret complex philosophical texts critically
- construct a sustained written argument defending a position on action theory
- Philosophy of Christianity
What you learn (6)
- explain core christian doctrines such as the trinity and incarnation
- describe differing interpretations of christian doctrines
- evaluate competing interpretations of christian doctrines against each other
- justify the most convincing interpretation of a given doctrine
- critique philosophical and theological texts from multiple perspectives
- formulate a personal reasoned position on theological debates
- German Idealism: Moral, Legal & Political Philosophy
What you learn (6)
- explain the moral, legal and political theories of key german idealist philosophers
- evaluate the arguments of german idealist philosophers on ethics and politics
- describe core concepts used in german idealist philosophy
- relate german idealist philosophy to current debates in moral and political thought
- critically analyse challenging philosophical texts
- construct and justify a personal position on complex philosophical issues
- Causation and Laws
What you learn (3)
- explain key theories of causation and natural laws
- analyse the relationship between causal laws and natural laws
- evaluate how theories of causation relate to moral responsibility
- Theories of Social Justice
What you learn (8)
- describe the key features of Rawls's theory of justice
- identify major scholarly responses to Rawls's theory
- compare areas of agreement and disagreement among theories of social justice
- explain what is at stake in theoretical disputes over social justice
- relate philosophical theories of social justice to real-world policy issues
- critically analyse complex texts in contemporary political philosophy
- formulate a reasoned personal position on questions of social justice
- defend a personal position on social justice using philosophical argument
- Cognitive Anomalies, Decision-Making, and Democracy
What you learn (6)
- explain research on cognitive biases affecting rational decision-making
- describe philosophical perspectives on the implications of cognitive biases
- identify ethical implications arising from cognitive effects and biases
- evaluate views on how cognitive biases affect individual and group decisions
- relate cognitive bias research to broader debates in philosophy of mind and ethics
- present philosophical arguments in both collaborative and individual written formats
- Happiness, Utility and Wellbeing
What you learn (5)
- evaluate competing philosophical accounts of happiness and well-being
- articulate a personal position on the role of happiness in one's own life
- evaluate how happiness informs ethical theory and moral reasoning
- evaluate how considerations of happiness shape public policy decisions
- discuss how other academic disciplines contribute to philosophical theories of happiness
- Mind and Morality
What you learn (8)
- explain key problems and debates in moral psychology clearly
- formulate alternative solutions to moral psychology problems
- construct arguments supporting alternative solutions in moral psychology
- identify weaknesses and development points in proposed arguments
- judge the most convincing position on a moral psychology issue
- defend a chosen position with supporting argument
- appraise own work against departmental marking criteria
- apply feedback-based strategies to improve own work
- Property and Self-Ownership
What you learn (5)
- explain major theories justifying property rights and self-ownership
- evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of theories of property and self-ownership
- critically appraise historical and contemporary philosophical texts
- integrate ideas drawn from diverse philosophical sources and topics
- construct a reasoned written argument evaluating a key module issue
- The Nature of Time
What you learn (7)
- construct arguments supporting particular theories of time
- construct arguments opposing particular theories of time
- evaluate competing theories of time to judge their plausibility
- justify a reasoned position on the most plausible theory of time
- critically appraise contemporary philosophical literature on time
- produce well-structured philosophical arguments in writing
- participate effectively in philosophical discussion
- Buddhism as Philosophy
What you learn (8)
- describe key teachings of the Buddha
- identify major schools of Buddhism
- identify philosophical problems arising from Buddhist teachings
- assess whether analytic philosophy can resolve Buddhist philosophical problems
- evaluate proposed solutions using scripture, tradition and reason
- argue for a preferred solution or for the absence of one
- explain key philosophical concepts and views in Buddhist philosophy
- critique philosophical arguments and defend a personal position
- Experimental Philosophy: The Philosophy of Psychology
What you learn (2)
- explain the distinguishing features of the experimental philosophy approach
- communicate philosophical ideas clearly to a mixed-discipline audience
- World and Mind
What you learn (4)
- describe the Cartesian view of thought and knowledge
- explain major objections to the Cartesian account of mind
- evaluate the strength of these objections to Cartesianism
- justify a personal position on which Cartesian claims remain tenable
- Nine Art Works, Nine Philosophical Problems
What you learn (4)
- describe major topics in the philosophy of art
- explain how philosophical topics relate to specific artworks
- construct and justify a reasoned argument in an extended essay
- participate constructively in critical peer discussions on aesthetics
- Topics in Feminist Philosophy
What you learn (3)
- identify key arguments within a philosophical text
- critically analyse philosophical arguments for validity and assumptions
- present analysis of philosophical arguments in structured written or spoken form
- Scientific Supercomputing
What you learn (8)
- describe different categories of high-performance computing hardware
- select appropriate hardware for a given computational task
- develop parallel software programs to solve scientific problems
- use profiling tools to locate performance bottlenecks in code
- devise strategies to resolve identified performance bottlenecks
- explain the operation of high-performance computing systems
- operate a high-performance computing system
- analyse a scientific problem to select a suitable parallelisation strategy
- Astrobiology
What you learn (14)
- explain the chemical conditions that enabled life to emerge on Earth
- describe the astrophysical conditions that enabled life to emerge on Earth
- describe the biological conditions that enabled life to emerge on Earth
- identify solar system environments with potential to support life
- explain key biological processes relevant to habitability assessment
- identify potential biosignatures produced by biological activity
- evaluate astrophysical techniques used to detect biosignatures
- relate current research debates to planetary and exoplanetary science
- discuss philosophical questions concerning extraterrestrial life
- synthesise information from multiple disciplines into a coherent discussion
- write coherently on astrobiology topics using supporting evidence
- construct coherent arguments on astrobiology questions using facts and theory
- distinguish between factual evidence, theory and speculation in arguments
- communicate scientific ideas clearly to a non-specialist audience
- Condensed Matter Physics: Electrons in Solids
What you learn (13)
- derive statistical mechanics results from basic statistical postulates
- relate statistical mechanics outcomes to classical thermodynamics laws
- apply statistical mechanics formulas to determine properties of physical systems
- use knowledge of microstates to analyse systems of varying complexity
- describe models of electron-electron and electron-lattice interactions
- explain the free electron approximation for metals
- describe free electron behaviour under electric and magnetic fields
- calculate density of states using Fermi statistics
- determine the electronic contribution to heat capacity
- describe conduction mechanisms in semiconductor materials
- explain operating principles of diodes and transistors
- distinguish types of magnetic behaviour in solid materials
- explain the fundamental principles underlying superconductivity
- Nuclear and Particle
What you learn (12)
- explain how shell model mechanisms generate ground and excited nuclear states
- predict angular momentum and parity of nuclear states from shell model
- interpret published nuclear level schemes using single-particle and collective models
- extract evidence of excitation types from nuclear spectroscopic data
- explain the quantum-mechanical basis of alpha, beta and gamma decay
- calculate decay rates for alpha, beta and gamma processes
- analyse the physics of nuclear fission and fusion processes
- describe the operation of nuclear power reactors based on fission and fusion
- describe the fundamental interactions between elementary particles
- explain how composite particles form from elementary particles
- apply symmetry principles and force types to constrain particle reaction dynamics
- evaluate detectors and techniques used in modern particle physics experiments
- Quantum Mechanics
What you learn (16)
- explain the link between commutators and measurement compatibility
- calculate commutators of simple quantum operators
- derive angular momentum operators in cartesian and spherical form
- solve eigenvalue problems for angular momentum operators
- explain how the central force theorem applies to spherically symmetric potentials
- derive the analytical eigensolutions for the hydrogen atom
- interpret the quantum numbers n, l and ml physically
- solve the spin eigenproblem using pauli spin matrices
- apply matrix formalism to analyse stern-gerlach experiments
- derive first- and second-order energy corrections in perturbation theory
- apply perturbation formulae to systems such as anharmonic oscillators
- apply degenerate perturbation and variational methods to quantum problems
- explain the procedure for quantising relativistic equations of motion
- manipulate commutator and anticommutator expressions of operators
- relate spin and gyromagnetic ratio to relativistic quantum mechanics
- explain the origin of hydrogen fine structure using relativistic quantum theory
- Advanced Theoretical Techniques and Modelling Matter
What you learn (10)
- describe physical principles behind computational simulation methods for materials
- assess benefits and limitations of different material simulation approaches
- operate materials simulation software to model physical properties of matter
- apply simulation techniques to investigate physical properties of diverse materials
- evaluate simulated physical properties across different materials
- analyse simulation output data to derive material physical properties
- apply integral transform methods to solve differential equations
- interpret physical processes described by transformed differential equations
- extend differential equation solutions to account for nonlinear behaviour
- transform physical quantities between different coordinate systems and reference frames
- Medical Physics
What you learn (5)
- explain interactions of radiation with matter and biological tissue
- describe detectors and methods for monitoring radiation dose
- explain mri and pet imaging and how they are realised in devices
- use computer simulations to investigate medical-physics problems
- present applications of physics techniques in a medical case
- Stars and Galaxies
What you learn (9)
- describe how matter and radiation are distributed throughout a galaxy
- apply physical principles to explain stellar evolutionary processes
- explain the different phases present in the interstellar medium
- describe stellar evolution stages leading to and from the main sequence
- calculate stellar evolutionary endpoints based on initial stellar mass
- explain how stellar evolution affects the surrounding interstellar medium
- evaluate how radiation affects atomic and molecular interstellar components
- discuss processes underlying galaxy formation and evolution
- appraise extreme galactic phenomena including active galactic nuclei
- Relativity and Cosmology
What you learn (8)
- construct space-time diagrams to represent relativistic events
- apply four-vector formalism to describe relativistic motion
- describe the outcomes of the four classical experimental tests of general relativity
- explain black hole physics using semi-quantitative reasoning
- calculate the evolution of different universe models using cosmological equations
- explain the inflationary Big Bang theory and its supporting evidence
- describe the principles of gravitational wave astronomy
- explain how gravitational wave observations inform relativity and cosmology research
- Quantum Science and Technologies
What you learn (8)
- explain the fundamental principles of quantum computation
- describe basic techniques of quantum error correction
- identify criteria for physical systems to function as quantum computers
- describe proposed physical implementations of quantum computers
- explain the fundamental principles of quantum communication
- describe modern protocols used in quantum communication
- compare theoretical security with its practical implementation
- describe methods used for quantum key distribution
- Plasma Physics and Fusion
What you learn (6)
- describe the defining physical characteristics of a plasma state
- identify different theoretical models used to describe plasma behaviour
- identify real-world applications that rely on plasma physics
- explain the scientific principles underlying plasma-based technologies
- apply mathematical techniques to analyse plasma physics problems
- solve novel quantitative problems relating to fusion physics
Year 4 · 1 core, 39 optional · 60 credits ≈ 600 hours
- MPhys Research Project and Skills
What you learn (15)
- plan and design an extended research project
- carry out an extended research investigation
- report findings of an extended research project
- investigate a physics topic using systematic critical methods
- apply experimental, computational or theoretical techniques to a physics problem
- organise own work independently to meet project objectives
- collaborate with internal and external research partners
- retrieve original source references from academic databases
- evaluate the credibility of retrieved scientific sources
- maintain a systematic record of research work in a notebook
- research and compose background material for a project
- apply advanced research methods to conduct a scientific investigation
- evaluate project findings against existing literature
- compose a written report presenting project outcomes
- present project outcomes orally to an audience
39 optional modules
- Practical Skills in Virtual Anatomy and Morphology
What you learn (7)
- evaluate imaging modalities for suitability to a research question
- describe advantages and disadvantages of virtual model creation approaches
- create 3D virtual anatomical models using appropriate software methods
- manipulate and visualise 3D anatomical models for analysis
- use morphometric tools to quantify structural variation in models
- apply statistical methods to analyse morphological variation
- visualise statistical results of morphological analyses
- Machine Vision and Human Machine Interaction
What you learn (13)
- evaluate core principles underlying machine vision systems
- explain key concepts underpinning effective human-machine interaction
- describe common machine vision algorithms
- apply machine vision algorithms to simple perception tasks
- apply human-machine interfaces to support human-machine collaboration
- describe how machine vision supports human-machine interfacing
- evaluate technical challenges in robot perception and interaction
- evaluate ethical issues arising in human-robot interaction
- design a machine vision system for a specific perception task
- implement a machine vision system for human perception applications
- design a basic human-machine interaction system
- implement a basic human-machine interaction system
- design systems capable of safely perceiving and interacting with their environment
- Innovation Management
What you learn (19)
- apply idea generation techniques to produce new concepts
- analyse generated ideas using structured analysis techniques
- explain marketing tools used for branding new technologies
- describe strategies for promoting new technology products
- evaluate commercialisation options for an engineering business concept
- produce a detailed business plan for a new engineering venture
- conduct market research for a new business concept
- test a new business concept using collected data
- deliver a concise pitch to communicate a new business idea
- analyse the resources needed to exploit a new market opportunity
- estimate financial requirements for a new business venture
- apply creative problem-solving techniques to business challenges
- use effective decision-making techniques in business contexts
- critically evaluate researched information for business decisions
- write a concise business portfolio tailored to an audience
- write a marketing plan appropriate to a target audience
- deliver a workshop presentation on a business topic
- present a summative elevator pitch to an audience
- collaborate effectively within a team to achieve shared goals
- Research Topics in Nanotechnology: Advanced Data Storage and Spintronics
What you learn (10)
- describe the von Neumann computing architecture
- apply logical operations and binary arithmetic circuits such as adders and subtractors
- describe the hierarchy of primary computer memory types
- describe the operating principles of common solid-state memory technologies
- describe the operating principles of emerging non-volatile memory technologies
- evaluate the physical mechanisms underlying magnetic data storage devices
- evaluate the physical mechanisms underlying optical data storage devices
- distinguish between memory devices and storage devices
- produce a concise technical report synthesising research findings
- critically evaluate new research information for a specific audience
- Future Healthcare And Computer Aided Diagnosis
What you learn (11)
- apply computer-aided design algorithms to diagnostic problems
- describe basic human anatomy relevant to imaging
- describe the principal bioimaging modalities used in medicine
- evaluate biomedical images and their production characteristics
- apply machine learning algorithms to process biomedical images
- manage collection, storage and transfer of biomedical image data
- interpret radiology images using systematic analysis methods
- apply a standard computer-aided diagnosis algorithm to image analysis
- assess physiological effects of radiation-tissue interaction
- demonstrate good laboratory practice during experimental work
- evaluate health and safety legislation affecting product development
- Medical Imaging And Physics
What you learn (12)
- apply engineering principles to explain body imaging and coordination systems
- compare medical imaging modalities by their advantages and drawbacks
- analyse the technical requirements of different imaging modalities
- describe the anatomy and physiology relevant to bioimaging modalities
- explain how radiation interacts with human tissue
- evaluate biomedical imaging methods and their production processes
- assess safety considerations and processing requirements of medical images
- describe methods for acquiring medical images
- describe methods for analysing medical images
- identify different imaging modalities and their technical characteristics
- describe machine learning algorithms used in image analysis
- evaluate the safety risks of radiation-tissue interactions in imaging technologies
- Phenomenology and Psychiatry
What you learn (6)
- describe the range of interdisciplinary research linking phenomenology and psychiatry
- explain recurring themes within the phenomenological tradition
- relate phenomenological themes to lived experiences of psychiatric patients
- conduct independent research beyond taught course material
- identify and explain a core theme within phenomenological philosophy
- critically evaluate the application of a phenomenological theme to psychiatric practice
- Time, Tense, and Existence
What you learn (7)
- synthesise ideas from multiple sources on time with critical awareness
- construct arguments for and against major theories of time
- evaluate competing theories of time to judge their plausibility
- justify a chosen position on time with a sustained detailed argument
- critically engage independently with contemporary philosophy of time literature
- demonstrate improved skills in philosophical discussion and writing
- compose an original extended essay extending beyond seminar material
- Social Justice and Political Economy
What you learn (5)
- apply philosophical reasoning to problems of institutional design
- apply philosophical reasoning to public policy problems
- critically evaluate complex texts in political philosophy and related disciplines
- formulate a reasoned position on institutional and policy issues
- defend a reasoned position using philosophical argument
- Topics in the Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence
What you learn (4)
- evaluate strengths and weaknesses of contemporary philosophical views on ai
- critique scholarly arguments on ai and machine learning
- produce an independent philosophical project extending beyond taught material
- synthesise information from diverse sources into a coherent argument
- Comparative Analytic Theology
What you learn (6)
- relate key topics to current research frontiers in the field
- analyse complex philosophical knowledge with critical awareness
- synthesise ideas from diverse scholarly sources
- evaluate research critically for validity and significance
- develop original arguments by applying philosophical ideas
- produce an extended essay independently beyond taught material
- Advanced Topics in Political Philosophy
What you learn (6)
- apply philosophical reasoning to practical political issues
- explain methodological debates on the nature of political philosophy
- describe the relationship between political philosophy and practical politics
- critically evaluate difficult material in contemporary political philosophy
- formulate a reasoned position on social justice questions
- defend a personal viewpoint on social justice issues
- Advanced Topics in Ethics
What you learn (5)
- conduct independent research on advanced ethical topics
- evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of key meta-ethical positions
- evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of key normative ethical theories
- construct a sustained written argument defending a personal ethical position
- critically appraise current scholarly research in ethics
- Research Skills and Dissemination Practice
What you learn (9)
- explain the challenges of conducting advanced philosophical research
- engage critically with advanced philosophical scholarship
- describe principles of good practice in philosophical research
- apply improved academic writing skills to research tasks
- use enhanced research techniques to support independent study
- identify research questions arising from a body of literature
- formulate research questions through critical analysis of sources
- present a conference paper to an academic audience
- defend research arguments in academic discussion
- Philosophical Theology after Maimonides
What you learn (1)
- compare a different philosophical tradition with one's own philosophical training
- Topics in Consciousness and Representation
What you learn (3)
- explain key topics in consciousness and representation with precision and clarity
- synthesise ideas from varied sources into a coherent account of a philosophical topic
- construct and present detailed arguments for and against competing theories
- Topics in Perception and Emotion
What you learn (10)
- synthesise ideas from varied sources into a coherent account
- construct arguments supporting a key theory of perception or emotion
- construct counterarguments against a key theory of perception or emotion
- evaluate competing answers to questions in philosophy of perception and emotion
- justify a reasoned position with a detailed supporting case
- critically appraise contemporary research on perception and emotion independently
- relate interdisciplinary work to philosophical debates on perception and emotion
- demonstrate improved skill in philosophical discussion
- demonstrate improved skill in philosophical writing
- compose an original extended essay beyond seminar material
- Freedom, Right, and Revolution: Post-Kantian Moral, Legal, and Political Philosophy
What you learn (5)
- analyse complex philosophical theories and arguments critically
- synthesize ideas from diverse advanced philosophical sources
- evaluate philosophical research critically
- develop original arguments from evaluation of philosophical ideas
- produce an extended essay independently beyond taught material
- Fictionalism
What you learn (3)
- explain and evaluate forms of fictionalism
- discuss recent debates on specific forms of fictionalism
- evaluate fictionalist attempts to avoid problematic ontological commitments
- Problem Based Learning: Government and Health Data
What you learn (6)
- collaborate with team members using their diverse skills to reach a joint decision
- conduct oneself according to formal governance committee conventions
- evaluate the complexity and sensitivity of real-world data privacy cases
- investigate the technical and regulatory context of a data privacy issue
- investigate the ethical, social and political context of a data privacy issue
- formulate a practical recommendation based on available evidence
- Problem Based Learning: Surveillance Capitalism
What you learn (6)
- collaborate in a team to reach a collective decision
- apply formal governance committee standards to group work
- evaluate the complexity of real-world data privacy cases
- investigate the technical and regulatory context of a data privacy issue
- investigate the ethical, social and political context of a data privacy issue
- formulate a practical recommendation based on available evidence
- Ethics and Epistemology of Digital Methods in Science
What you learn (9)
- explain key debates on digital methods in philosophy of science
- communicate philosophical ideas clearly and accessibly
- formulate alternative solutions to problems using module content
- present alternative viewpoints in an open-minded manner
- construct arguments supporting different proposed solutions
- identify weaknesses and areas for development in arguments
- evaluate competing views to determine the strongest position
- defend a chosen position with reasoned argument
- apply feedback-based strategies to improve written work
- Truth
What you learn (9)
- explain multiple theories of truth with precision
- synthesise ideas from diverse philosophical sources critically
- construct detailed arguments supporting key truth theories
- construct detailed counter-arguments against key truth theories
- evaluate competing theories of truth to judge their plausibility
- justify a reasoned position on truth theories with sustained argument
- critically analyse contemporary literature on truth independently
- compose an original extended essay on truth theories
- extend arguments beyond seminar material with critical reflection
- Freedom and Metaphysics
What you learn (4)
- explain classic philosophical positions on free will
- evaluate current research debates on the metaphysics of moral responsibility
- analyse complex philosophical texts in detail
- produce an extended essay independently beyond seminar material
- Thinking About Happiness
What you learn (3)
- compare ancient, utilitarian and contemporary accounts of happiness
- evaluate the role of happiness in ethics and public policy
- discuss contributions of other disciplines to theories of happiness
- From Subatomic to Nuclear Astrophysics
What you learn (5)
- explain nuclear structure models such as rotation and shape coexistence
- apply experimental techniques to analyse nuclear excited states
- explain gross properties of hadrons and mesons
- analyse how elemental abundance reflects astrophysical nucleosynthesis
- critique experimental techniques for astrophysical reaction rates
- Biophysics
What you learn (11)
- apply physical laws to construct models of biological systems
- analyse biological system models quantitatively
- critique assumptions underlying biophysical models
- evaluate how assumptions affect the validity of model results
- explain the physical principles underlying experimental biophysical techniques
- interpret key results obtained from biophysical experiments
- assess the defining features of biological systems studied
- evaluate the biological significance of these systems
- describe key physical principles behind major biological processes
- critically analyse experimental biophysical data
- reflect on personal professional skills gained through data analysis
- Cosmic Horizons
What you learn (2)
- evaluate current astrophysical understanding using research and computational sources
- identify discrepancies and gaps between models and observational data
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics
What you learn (10)
- relate symmetries in quantum systems to associated conservation laws
- calculate time evolution of a quantum wavefunction
- assess effects of time evolution on measurable physical quantities
- derive first-order time-dependent perturbation theory results
- apply first-order perturbation theory to quantum systems
- calculate geometric phases in adiabatically evolving quantum systems
- explain quantum mechanical laws governing systems of multiple particles
- apply many-particle quantum mechanics to solve problems
- derive general results of quantum angular momentum theory
- apply angular momentum theory to quantum mechanical problems
- Scientific Supercomputing
What you learn (8)
- describe different categories of high-performance computing hardware
- select appropriate hardware for a given computational task
- develop parallel software programs to solve scientific problems
- use profiling tools to locate performance bottlenecks in code
- devise strategies to resolve identified performance bottlenecks
- explain the operation of high-performance computing systems
- operate a high-performance computing system
- analyse a scientific problem to select a suitable parallelisation strategy
- Advanced Condensed Matter Physics
What you learn (6)
- explain the significance of the nanoscale regime in materials behaviour
- describe fabrication methods used to produce nanomaterials and nanodevices
- describe characterisation techniques applied to nanomaterials and nanodevices
- determine atomic structure from electron microscopy data
- describe applications and devices based on nanomaterials and nanostructures
- explain the operating principles and key parameters of nanodevices
“What you learn” restates each module’s published learning outcomes in our own words, as short skill statements in the same form as the GCSE and A level curriculum, with the help of an AI model; fields of knowledge follow the twelve fields of the knowledge sphere. The university’s module page, linked from each title, is the authoritative description.
After graduating
Where does it lead?
£30,000median pay three years after graduating
Lower quarter£24k
Median£30k
Upper quarter£40k
Median — the middle earner: half earned more, half less. Pay is for graduates of this subject at this university who finished in 2016-18, not adjusted for inflation; based on 125 graduates.
Discover Uni dataset (HESA and Office for Students, CC BY 4.0, contains HESA data); earnings from the Longitudinal Education Outcomes data (Department for Education) · aggregation level 13, 23
Half of graduates earned between £24,000 and £39,500. Five years on, the median is £37,500. 85% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing; 90% of those in work were in professional or managerial jobs.
All outcome figures7
| Measure | Value | Based on |
|---|---|---|
| Continue after year 17% left | 89% | 165 |
| In work or study, 15 months on25% studying | 85% | 55 |
| Professional or managerial job | 90% | 25 |
| Pay 15 months on, median | £34,000 | 20 |
| Pay 3 years on, median | £30,000 | 125 |
| Pay 5 years on, median | £37,500 | 145 |
Money
What does it cost?
£10,050a year for UK students, 2027/28 entry
Tuition fee loan — paid straight to the university; repayments start the April after you leave, at 9% of income above the threshold. UK fees are capped by government and rise with inflation; placement and study-abroad years are usually charged at a lower rate.
York fees page · source
About £40,200 in fees over 4 years, covered by a tuition fee loan you repay only when earning above the threshold. International students: £33,500 a year (2027/28).
National Student Survey 2025-26
What do students say?
83%agreed the course was good overall (question 26)
NSS — a yearly survey of final-year students at every UK university; 72% of this course’s final year answered. Small groups can swing a lot year to year.
National Student Survey, via Discover Uni · 115 students answered
Highest: 94% agreed on question 15; lowest: 52% on question 14.
All questions26
| Question | Agree |
|---|---|
| Question 1 | 88% |
| Question 2 | 79% |
| Question 3 | 91% |
| Question 4 | 88% |
| Question 5 | 80% |
| Question 6 | 85% |
| Question 7 | 86% |
| Question 8 | 84% |
| Question 9 | 89% |
| Question 10 | 64% |
| Question 11 | 82% |
| Question 12 | 78% |
| Question 13 | 79% |
| Question 14 | 52% |
| Question 15 | 94% |
| Question 16 | 90% |
| Question 17 | 74% |
| Question 18 | 76% |
| Question 19 | 89% |
| Question 20 | 91% |
| Question 21 | 88% |
| Question 22 | 87% |
| Question 23 | 76% |
| Question 24 | 60% |
| Question 25 | 65% |
| Question 26 | 83% |
Question texts are published by the Office for Students; the dataset carries only the question numbers.
Modules, entry requirements and fees are facts read from University of York’s course page on 2026-09-19 and may change; the university’s page is authoritative. Descriptions are not reproduced. Outcome figures are from the Discover Uni dataset. University of York is a trade mark of the university; sch.today is independent of it.