Durham "Maths and Physics" applicants for 2026 entry
Reply 1
Hiya!! Durham student rep here 👋
Have you received an offer yet? And if so, are there any colleges you’re particularly hoping for?
If you’re still waiting to hear back, best of luck - the waiting can definitely be the hardest part, but hopefully you’ll have some good news soon!
If you have any questions about the course, colleges, or Durham student life - feel free to reach out and ask!
-Lacey, DU Student Rep 🙂💜
Reply 2
Reply 3
That’s exciting! An open application is a good option as well, as quite a few people end up really happy with the college they’re allocated.
I’m actually in Van Mildert, which I’ve ended up loving. It wasn’t one of the colleges I originally had at the very top of my list, but once you’re here the community and atmosphere matter much more than where you thought you wanted to go beforehand.
South and St Mary’s are both really nice choices, and you’re right that they’re quite close to the science site which is really convenient for Physics. They’re also both really pretty colleges with great communities.
Honestly though, I always say it’s hard to pick a “favourite” college because everyone becomes quite loyal to their own once they arrive! Each one has its own personality, but they’re all very social and welcoming. I definitely would say Mildert is my favourite now 😊
Hopefully this helps! If you have any physics related questions please feel free to ask! Happy to help.
-Lacey, DU Student Rep 💜
Reply 4
Reply 5
Congratulations! 🥳 We're so excited for you to join us.
Let me know if you have any other questions about studying at Durham.
-Rosie (DU Representative)
Reply 6
Reply 7
Currently deciding on Colleges - favouring Collingwood (yes, I know it's the most oversubscribed), on the offer holder day we're going to look at some of the Bailey ones
Reply 8
Currently deciding on Colleges - favouring Collingwood (yes, I know it's the most oversubscribed), on the offer holder day we're going to look at some of the Bailey ones
Hiya!! Congratulations to your son – that’s a fantastic offer to have, especially for Maths & Physics! 🎉
At Durham University, the Maths & Physics course is generally very well regarded, and one of the nice things about it is that it’s a genuinely integrated degree, rather than feeling like two completely separate subjects stitched together.
Course structure & support
Your concern about being “stuck between two faculties” is a really good one, but in practice:
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The course is run jointly by the Department of Mathematical Sciences and the Department of Physics, and they’re very used to working together
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Students typically have clear timetables and support from both departments, rather than being left to navigate things alone
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There’s a strong overlap in content (e.g. mathematical methods for physics), so it actually feels quite complementary rather than split
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Read up about the course here.
Teaching style
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Mix of lectures, problem sheets, and small group tutorials/supervisions
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Maths in particular is quite problem-sheet heavy, but support is there if you engage with it
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Physics includes labs and practical work alongside theory
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Both departments have a reputation for being academically rigorous, but also supportive if students seek help (office hours, tutorials, etc.)
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Check out both the department pages here;
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It is a demanding course (as you’d expect), especially early on while adjusting
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However, students who enjoy both subjects usually find it really rewarding
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The overlap actually helps – the maths supports the physics rather than competing with it
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The university offers lots of support within the academic advisor system, tutors, and lectures.
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Collingwood is very popular for a reason: (It was my top choice also - although I got Van Mildert, which I now love!)
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Very social, sporty, and lively
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Big college, lots going on
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But yes, it is oversubscribed, so it’s worth having a couple of backups.
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Over similar colleges; Grey, Van Mildert, Marys
Great idea to look at Bailey colleges too on the offer holder day – they’ll give a very different feel:
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More traditional Durham (gowns, formals, central location)
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Often a bit smaller and more historic
Between Durham and Bristol, it often comes down to:
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Durham → collegiate system, traditional feel
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Bristol → city-based, slightly more flexible vibe
If you have any more questions please feel free to reach out and ask! Happy to help.
-Lacey, DU Student Rep 🙂💜
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