MSc Theoretical Physics

Work at the forefront of research in theoretical physics and answer some of the deepest questions about the nature of the world around us. This MSc gives you a specialist overview of key topics and is taught by some of the UK’s leading string theorists from Queen Mary’s Centre for Research in String Theory. 

The expertise you gain will make you a future physics pioneer. This programme gives you a comprehensive understanding of the field, covering topics such as supersymmetric field theories, string theory and quantum field theory, while also keeping you up-to-date with the very latest developments in research. You’ll also gain expertise in advanced mathematical techniques and their applications in theoretical physics.

This is a highly flexible programme that can be tailored to your specialist interests as you develop them - you will be able to choose modules in a variety of study areas offered by the School, including growth areas such as Machine Learning.

You’ll complete a specialist independent research project which will help you develop a sophisticated understanding of research methodology, and how to manage your own research, making use of journal articles and other primary sources. 

You’ll join a thriving, friendly research community, with a busy schedule of research seminars, colloquia, meetings and workshops (as well as regular social events), so you can make the most of the specialist research skills you’ll develop on this course.

We pride ourselves on our collaborations and networks: we are a member of SEPnet, which among other advantages, gives you access to GRADnet, the largest physics postgraduate school in England. As a Queen Mary student, you’ll also be able to take physics modules from University College London, King's College London or the Royal Holloway University of London, at the programme director's discretion.

You can view a series of videos created by the academics involved in the MSc programme that cover varied aspects of their research and how our research intersects with the teaching you'll receive and the modules you'll study.

As a Queen Mary student, you’ll also be able to take physics modules from University College London, King's College London or the Royal Holloway University of London. You'll need to organise and pay for any travel arrangements for these modules.

You will be working alongside academics with links to leading research institutions such as CERN and may be able to use facilities at such institutions as part of your programme. You would be responsible for your own travel and subsistence costs associated with this. However, the School may be able to assist with applications for additional funding to support studies or research trips.