Mathematics and Physics are natural subjects to combine in a degree programme. At York the Mathematics and Physics BA/BSc degree includes a good all-round coverage of physics, with an even greater emphasis on the study of fundamental mathematics than the Theoretical Physics degree programme. It emphasises the mathematical structure of physical theory. Approximately half the teaching comes from the Department of Mathematics, who provide modules in, for example, dynamical systems, fluid mechanics and nonlinear dynamics taught by mathematical physicists, as well as a rigorous training in underlying mathematical theory. The final-year research project may be taken in either department.

Physics graduates are highly sought after by employers across a range of disciplines. A high proportion of graduates go on to careers that use their knowledge and expertise in physics. However as physics is so central in the span of scientific subjects physicists are readily employed in other disciplines such as computing, electronics, chemistry and mathematics.