• Total units 24 Units
  • Areas of interest Mathematics, Physics
  • Specialisation code MPHY-SPEC

Corequisite majors: Physics or Mathematics


This specialisation (based on either a Physics or Mathematics major) is intended for students with a keen interest in both (Theoretical) Physics and (Fundamental) Mathematics. It is the pathway to research into the modern areas of Theoretical Physics as well as Mathematical Physics (such as String Theory and Integrable Models). 

Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate mastery of the ideas, concepts and techniques of Calculus, Linear Algebra and Differential Equations.

  2. Describe and explain the fundamental principles of physics, including those of Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics and Relativity.

  3. Identify the mathematics and physics required to solve applied problems.

  4. Solve non-routine physical problems by translating ideas into a precise mathematical formulation.

  5. Demonstrate awareness of the many branches of mathematics and physics and of the interconnections among them.

  6. Demonstrate a deeper understanding of some area(s) of mathematics and physics.

  7. Draw on discipline based experiences of working collaboratively, communicating mathematics and physics knowledge and acting professionally and responsibility in further study, or professional pursuits.

  8. Recognise the importance of continuing professional development and be able to extend knowledge of mathematics through independent reading and learning.

Other Information

A specialisation in Mathematical Physics must be taken in conjunction with a Mathematics or Physics major.


Students are recommended to take MATH1115, MATH1116, PHYS1101 and PHYS1201 in first year and MATH2305, MATH2306, MATH2322, MATH2320, PHYS2013 and

PHYS2016 in second year.


Advice to students following a MATH-MAJ: You will also need to complete PHYS1101, PHYS1201, PHYS2013, PHYS2016, PHYS2201 and PHYS2201. These courses can form part of a PHYS-MIN or a PHYS-MAJ.


Advice to students following a PHYS-MAJ pathway: You will also need to complete MATH115, MATH1116, MATH2305, MATH2306, MATH2322 and MATH2320. This courses can form part of a MATH-MIN or MATH-MAJ


Students who want to take this specialisation and are in a Flexible Double Degree program should seek academic advice.


Students should seek further course advice from the academic convener of the Mathematical Physics specialisation.


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Requirements

A specialisation in Mathematical Physics may only be taken in conjunction with one of the following majors:


This specialisation requires the completion of 24 units, of which:


12 units must come from completion of PHYS courses from the following list:

PHYS3101 Advanced Quantum Mechanics (6 units)

PHYS3102 Advanced Electromagnetism (6 units)

PHYS3103 Advanced Statistical Mechanics (6 units)

PHYS3201 Quantum Field Theory (6 units)

PHYS3203 General Relativity (6 units)


12 units must come from completion of courses from the following list:

MATH3342 Advanced Differential Geometry (6 units)

MATH3351 Advanced Topics in Mathematical Physics (6 units)

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