Physics / Theoretical Physics
The classic route into research, data, finance, tech and many engineering careers. Often available as BSc or MPhys.
PhysicsUK Careers
A-level choices and degree routes
What goes well with physics?
Most physics-related careers need strong maths, but your third subject can steer you towards particular clusters. Use the table below to see how common A-level combinations map to career areas.
A-level combinations
Universities usually ask for A-level Physics and Maths for physics, engineering and physical sciences degrees. Further Maths is helpful but rarely required; the third subject can strengthen your application for particular paths.
| Combination | Best for | Career clusters |
|---|---|---|
| Physics + Maths + Further Maths | The most mathematical degrees and theoretical paths | Research & Development, Technology & Data, Finance & Business |
| Physics + Maths + Chemistry | Materials science, energy, physical chemistry, some medicine routes | Research & Development, Energy & Environment, Health & Medicine |
| Physics + Maths + Computer Science | Software, data science, AI, robotics and quantum computing | Technology & Data, Engineering, Finance & Business |
| Physics + Maths + Biology | Medical physics, biomedical engineering, biophysics | Health & Medicine, Research & Development, Energy & Environment |
| Physics + Maths + Economics / Business | Finance, consulting, data analytics, quantitative roles | Finance & Business, Technology & Data |
| Physics + Maths + Design & Technology | Engineering, product design, aerospace | Engineering, Space & Defence |
| Physics + Maths + Geography | Climate science, meteorology, environmental physics | Energy & Environment, Research & Development |
Do you need Further Maths?
It is very useful for theoretical physics, Oxford/Cambridge physical sciences and some engineering courses, but many excellent universities do not require it. If your school does not offer it, strong Maths and Physics grades are usually enough.
University-level combinations
At university you can keep physics broad or combine it with another discipline. Joint honours and natural sciences degrees let you tailor your course to your interests.
Physics with Astrophysics
Adds cosmology, stellar physics and observational techniques. Good for space and research careers.
Physics with Medical Physics
Direct preparation for the NHS Scientist Training Programme and medical-device industry.
Engineering Physics
Applied physics with design and industry focus; strong route into aerospace, electronics and energy.
Mathematics and Physics
Excellent for theoretical work, finance, data science and quantitative research.
Natural Sciences
Combine physics with chemistry, biology, earth sciences or materials. Flexible but check accreditation for specific career routes.
How combinations map to career clusters
Think of your subject choices as giving you “boosts” towards certain career clusters, rather than locking you in.
| Career cluster | Helpful A-level subjects | Typical degree directions |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Maths, Physics, D&T, Chemistry | Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Civil, Nuclear Engineering |
| Technology & Data | Maths, Physics, Computer Science, Further Maths | Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, Maths |
| Finance & Business | Maths, Further Maths, Economics, Physics | Physics, Maths, Economics, Engineering, Data Science |
| Health & Medicine | Maths, Physics, Biology, Chemistry | Medical Physics, Biomedical Engineering, Physics |
| Energy & Environment | Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Geography | Physics, Environmental Science, Engineering, Earth Sciences |
| Research & Development | Maths, Physics, Further Maths, Chemistry | Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Natural Sciences |
| Space & Defence | Maths, Physics, D&T, Computer Science | Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Astrophysics, Engineering |
| Education & Communication | Maths, Physics, English, any facilitating subject | Physics, Education, Science Communication, Journalism |
Where to find course information
Use these authoritative sources to check entry requirements, compare courses and read prospectuses. They are independent of PhysicsUK and a good way to verify the routes described here.
- UCAS Physics and astronomy has UK physics degrees, entry requirements and open days.
- IOP Physics at university gives advice from the Institute of Physics on choosing a course.
- Prospects.ac.uk has detailed job profiles, salaries and career paths for physics-related roles.
- Example prospectus pages: Oxford Physics, Cambridge Physics, Imperial Physics, Manchester Physics.
What next?
- Explore career profiles to see the subjects each role recommends.
- Take the careers quiz to match your interests to a cluster.
- Transition from GCSE to A-level Physics to prepare for the course.
- Revise A-level Physics topics that support your chosen career path.