Overview
Please note the course details apply to 2026 entry.
Our Theoretical Physics MSc is an intensive, research-led course. You will examine foundational topics in theoretical and mathematical physics such as general relativity and quantum field theory, before exploring advanced topics such as string theory, quantum gravity, and supersymmetry.
With a wide range of optional modules, including from the Department of Physics, you can choose to specialise in the fields that interest you or cover many topics in the year. You will also be exposed to a wide range of research techniques and have the opportunity to apply to these, conducting a substantial project at the end of your course.
Key benefits
- Top 10 in the UK for Mathematics (QS World Rankings by subject 2025).
- Opportunity to study theoretical and mathematical physics such as general relativity and quantum field theory, and advanced topics such as string theory and supersymmetry.
- Excellent preparation for PhD through summer project on a cutting-edge research topic.
- Research-led course taught by staff who are internationally recognised leaders in their field, holding major research grants and participating in preeminent international collaborations. 100 per cent of research in the Department of Mathematics was classed as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021).
- Excellent one-to-one support and regular supervision during your project, as well as interactive teaching and regular classroom discussions.
- Central location gives you easy access to major libraries and many leading societies, including the Institute of Physics, the Royal Society and the London Institute for Mathematical Sciences, with whom we collaborate on a seminar series.
- Join seminars, journal clubs, and a tailored lecture series for Master's students through the Theoretical Physics Research Group, including with leading researchers from around the world such as Nobel Laureates.
Course essentials
Our Theoretical Physics MSc is a demanding, research-informed course that gives you a coherent, comprehensive introduction to the building blocks of modern theoretical physics and the opportunity to explore more advanced topics.
The course offers you the choice to study either full or part-time. It also gives you a wide choice of optional modules enabling you to shape your degree. The modules give a rigorous training in advanced quantum mechanics, quantum field theory, general relativity, and mathematical and computational techniques for theoretical physicists. They also provide insight into emerging research in modern theoretical physics, including gauge theory, string theory, black holes, cosmology, dark matter, and gravitational wave physics.
Towards the end of your degree, you’ll get to explore a research area of your choice through an in-depth project looking at cutting edge fields in theoretical physics. You will receive close supervision from an expert academic, including regular one-to-one meetings. The project involves conducting a literature review and substantial analysis — which may include computational techniques — culminating in writing a thesis on your findings. Projects could include the extended spacetime of M-Theory, Machine Learning in theoretical physics, black hole evaporation, singularities in semiclassical cosmology, amongst other topics.
Throughout the project you will develop skills in planning, critical thinking and dissemination, and build your independence and resilience — excellent preparation for a PhD or a wide range of demanding careers.
Key Information
Course type:
Master's
Delivery mode:
In person
Study mode:
Full time / Part time
Duration:
1 year full-time, September to September, 2 years part-time
Credit value:
UK 180/ECTS 90
Application status:
Open
Start date:
September 2026
Administrative bodies
Regulating body
Application closing date guidance
We encourage you to apply as early as possible so that there is sufficient time for your application to be assessed and we may need to request further information from you during the application process.
ATAS clearance if you receive an offer: this programme requires all non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals (with some exceptions) to have an ATAS certificate before they can enrol at King’s – this clearance can take a number of months (minimum 30 working days) and expected to be longer particularly during April and September. We therefore advise applying as soon as possible and earlier than the below deadlines to avoid any delay in obtaining this certificate.
Our first application deadline is on 9 March 2026 (23:59 UK time). The final application deadlines for this programme are:
- Overseas (international) fee status: 25 July 2026 (23:59 UK time)
- Home fee status: 25 August 2026 (23:59 UK time)
After the first application deadline in March:
- if the programme is not yet full, we will continue to accept applications until all available places are filled up to the final application deadlines above
- if the programme becomes full before the final application deadlines stated above, we will close the programme to further applications
Please note, you will not be eligible for an application fee refund if you apply after the first application deadline, and we are unable to process further offers because places are filled and we close the course before the final application deadline.
Base campus
Strand Campus
Strand Campus feels like the heart of London—historic yet buzzing with energy. Nestled by the Thames, it offers world-class academics, vibrant student life, and endless inspiration from the city’s culture and diversity.