Both of these subjects require a clear and measured approach to problem-solving, critical thinking, and a desire to understand how things are. While Physics teaches about the nature and behaviour of the universe, Philosophy addresses important moral and existential questions about knowledge, identity, and how we should act. This course looks at both subjects individually, but also studies their overlap. This is a very small course with an average annual intake of 15 and it’s extremely competitive with just 9% of applicants being successful.
In the first year, students take general topics in both subjects, including classical mechanics and special relativity, and mathematical methods on the Physics side, and general Philosophy and elements of deductive logic on the Philosophy side. There is also a module on the Philosophy of Physics. As the course progresses, students are given more choice over what they study, and undergraduates can shift more weight to either of the disciplines.
The course offers an integrated Master’s in the fourth year, where students can choose to continue with both subjects or specialise in one. A large part of this year can be spent on a research project, and Oxford has the largest Physics and Philosophy research group in the world, which examines various theories, including space-time and quantum theories.
A Levels (or equivalent) in Physics and Maths are required. It is recommended to take the Mechanics modules in Maths (if possible) and studying Further Maths may help.