Postgraduate Study
MSc Programme
This one year (full time) or two year (part time) programme covers topics like string theory, quantum field theory, supersymmetry, general relativity, and conformal and integrable field theory. Students gain a coherent, comprehensive introduction to the building blocks of modern theoretical physics. Students study at least eight taught modules and develop individual projects in areas of current research. The programme ideally prepares students for active research.
Further information can be found in our online prospectus. A reading list is also available and may be of interest to applicants.
PhD Programme
For a PhD place in the Theoretical Physics group, we usually require a first-class degree or a strong second-class (or the equivalent), as well as an MSc with distinction (or the equivalent). We also take into account the results of interviews, which should be held in February on the annual Postgraduate Open Day.
Please note that candidates who would like to apply for a PhD in Theoretical Physics should apply to the Applied Mathematics MPhil/PhD programme.
There are a number of funding options available for postgraduate research and these are listed on our Funding and Fees page. The Postgraduate Funding Database also lists funding available across the College. It is suggested that when applying for College funding in particular, prospective applicants should write a strong research proposal, preferably with the help of your prospective supervisor.
Students can also opt to be self-funded. In this case, the group will be able to make a PhD offer based on academic excellence and whether there is a good match with a PhD supervisor in the Department. If students cannot get funding, there are possibilities of gaining financial support for conferences from the Department. There is also funding available later on in the PhD, if students do not get it for their first year.