Physics with Medical Applications MSci drafted

Program Overview

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Physics studies how our Universe works, from the smallest atomic nucleus to the largest galaxy. Our MSci Physics with Medical Applications degree is aimed at students who want to learn about the application of physics to 21st-Century Medicine. Students undertaking this degree will obtain a thorough grounding in modern physics, but will also take modules that give them expertise in modern medical techniques, from MRI scans to radiation and nuclear applications. Students taking this degree are most likely to become medical physicists after graduation.

Physics with Medical Applications Degree highlights

Physics at Queen's was ranked 3rd in the country for research intensity in United Kingdom's most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF) exercise as published by the Times Higher Education.

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Global Opportunities

We participate in the IAESTE and Turing student exchange programmes, which enable students to obtain work experience in companies and universities throughout the world.

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Professional Accreditations

Accredited by the Institute of Physics for the purpose of exemptions from some professional examinations, which partially fulfils the requirements to obtain the status of Chartered Physicist (CPhys).

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Industry Links

All students in the school have the option to include a year in industry as part of their studies. This is a fantastic opportunity to see mathematics at work in the real world, and to enhance your career prospects at the same time. Possible placements will include companies in the finance and technology sectors, and indeed we maintain strong links with local companies who hire Physics graduates, for example Andor Technology, AquaQ Analytics, Seagate, General Electric, Medical Physics in The NHS.

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World Class Facilities

You will be taught in our new state-of-the-art teaching centre, containing specialist laboratory equipment and computer facilities. Students also use some of the research facilities in their final year projects, such as a telescope observatory on the roof of the main building, one of the most powerful university lasers in the world, and state-of-the-art nano-fabrication and characterisation facilities.

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Internationally Renowned Experts

All of our faculty staff are research scientists in their own right; in the 2014 REF peer-review exercise, 88% of our research was judged as internationally excellent or world-leading, and QUB Physics was 3rd in the UK for research intensity.

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Student Experience

This 4-year integrated masters programme allows our students to advance their knowledge and skills to a much higher level of proficiency. The additional year also enables these capabilities to be applied in an extensive research project during which the students’ confidence and maturity grows markedly. This ultimately transforms the career prospects of our graduates

In the 2020 National Student Survey, Physics Teaching Quality and our Learning Community were both rated in the top 5 of all UK Physics Departments.

Studying physics at QUB has been a great way to gain a better understanding across a wide range of topics. Throughout the course we’ve also developed strong problem solving, computational and data analysis skills, which we can apply to wide range of jobs.”

Daniel Molloy (MSci Physics 2021)

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Course content

Program Outline

Course Structure

Course Content	The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Stage 1	In their first year students study a core of experimental, theoretical and computational Physics, alongside Applied Mathematics. Physics topics include: • Classical Mechanics • Electromagnetism • Light and Optics • Quantum Theory • Relativity • Solid State Physics • Thermal Physics
Stage 2	At Stage 2, according to degree selection, modules are taken which reveal the excitement of such areas as: • Astrophysics I • Atomic and Nuclear Physics • Quantum and Statistical Physics • Optics, Electricity and Magnetism • Physics of the Solid State Advanced Laboratory work develops the skills of planning, carrying out and analysing experiments and simulations, and provides opportunities for deepening understanding of the wide applicability of physics.
Stage 3	At Stage 3, MSci students also have the opportunity to undertake a Computational project module, which will introduce them to numerical simulations that are fundamental to all areas of physics today. • Computational Project • Professional Skills • Physics in Medicine • Nuclear and Particle Physics • Electromagnetism & Optics • Astrophysics II • Advanced Solid State Physics • Quantum Mechanics and Relativity
Stage 4	At Stage 4, specialist modules are available, broadly reflecting research interests of those teaching in the Department. These modules include: • Cosmology • High-Energy Astrophysics • Laser Physics • Medical Radiation Research Methods • Planetary Systems • Plasma Physics • The Physics of Nanomaterials • Ultrafast Science Also in this year, a major project is carried out in association with one of these research areas, with the student working within world-leading research groups. Through this project students gain an intensive insight into modern scientific research. Students can also undertake projects with an outside organisation or company provided the research is approved by the Director of Education. Examples include the Central Laser Facility in Oxfordshire, England, local engineering firms and the Northern Ireland Regional Cancer Centre. Some projects may result in publications in national and international scientific journals.

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People teaching you

Dr Stuart Sim

Reader, School of Mathematics and Physics

School of Maths and Physics

Dr. Stuart Sim is a Reader in Physics. He is also an internationally recognised astrophysicist with expertise in supernova explosions and their aftermath.

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Contact Teaching Times

Small Group Teaching/Personal Tutorial	2 (hours maximum) 2 hours of tutorials (or later, project supervision) each week.
Personal Study	16 (hours maximum) 14-16 hours studying and revising in your own time each week, including some guided study using handouts, online activities, homeworks etc.
Medium Group Teaching	6 (hours maximum) 6 hours of practical classes and computer workshops each week in level 1, increasing to an average of 8 hours of practical work per week in Level 2.
Large Group Teaching	9 (hours maximum) 9 hours of lectures

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Learning and Teaching

At Queen’s, we aim to deliver a high quality learning environment that embeds intellectual curiosity, innovation and best practice in learning, teaching and student support to enable students to achieve their full academic potential. Examples of the opportunities provided for learning on this degree programme are:

Computer-Based Modules

These provide students with the opportunity to develop technical skills and apply theoretical principles to real-life or practical contexts. For example, one of the Level 1 modules, PHY1003 Computational Modelling in Physics, will introduce students to programming and begin developing those skills in the field of theoretical calculations. Students will be given instruction on how to programme in Python and Matlab.

E-Learning technologies

Information associated with lectures and assignments is often communicated via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) called Queen’s Online. A range of e-learning experiences are also embedded in the degree programme through the use of, for example, interactive support materials and web-based learning activities.

Laboratory Physics

As physics is an experimentally based subject, all students will undertake experimental physics as part of their degree. Students normally work in assigned pairs in the laboratory, with submitted reports and findings individually assessed. As part of this work students will become proficient in using Excel for analysing data and Word for laboratory reports. In their final year students will undertake a final year medical physics research project, placed within the Centre for Plasma Physics at QUB.

Lectures

These introduce and explain the foundation information about topics as a starting point for further self-directed private study/reading. The material in the lectures will follow the syllabus issued at the start of the module, and will form the basis of the assessment carried out. As the modules progress and student’s knowledge of physics grows, this information becomes more complex. Lectures, which are normally delivered in large groups to all year-group peers, also provide opportunities to ask questions and seek clarification on key issues as well as gain feedback and advice on assessments.

Additional lectures may also be also delivered by invited speakers and scientists from various areas of physics – these lectures generally do not form part of the assessed work, but students are encouraged to attend to widen their knowledge and appreciation of the subject. There may also be lectures from employers of physics graduates. These enable employers to impart their valuable experience to physics students, and allows our physics students to meet and engage with potential future employers.

Self-directed study

This is an essential part of life as a Queen’s student when important private reading, engagement with e-learning resources, reflection on feedback to date and assignment research and preparation work is carried out.

Seminars / Tutorials

A significant amount of teaching is carried out in small groups (2–5 students). These sessions are designed to explore, in more depth, the information that has been presented in the lectures, and are normally based on coursework submitted by the students. This provides students with the opportunity to engage closely with academic staff who have specialist knowledge of the topic, to ask questions of them and to assess their own progress and understanding with the support of their peers. During these classes, students will be expected to present their work to academic staff and their peers.

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Assessment

The way in which students are assessed will vary according to the learning objectives of each module. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Student Handbook which may be accessed online via the School website. Physics modules are typically assessed by a combination of continuous assessment and a final written unseen examination. Continuous assessment consists of:

Student Tutorial Questions/ Lecture Assignments

This involves the completion and submission of example problems on a weekly (tutorial) or three-weekly (assignment) basis as answered by individual students. These are submitted by students by an appropriate deadline and assessed, with the mark awarded contributing to the continuous assessment element of the module mark. The mark awarded reflects accuracy and clarity of the submitted answers together with understanding of the subject matter. Consistent with employer feedback, some modules also require students to prepare and make a small group presentation on a pre-assigned topic. Such group activities are also assessed, with the mark awarded contributing to the continuous assessment element of the module mark. To aid such exercises all students in their first year are given instruction and guidance on making successful presentations.

Laboratory and Computational Skills

All physics students are required to learn and understand the basic concepts of experimental physics. This involves understanding the basics of measurements, accuracy and error analysis; being able to understand and (in later levels) assess different methods of performing experimental measurements; reporting experimental findings and comparing them with prior knowledge of expectations based on physical laws. Assessment takes place through short laboratory reports or presentations, for which instruction is given. Additionally, all students will be given training in software coding using computer languages appropriate for scientific investigations, and this is assessed through worksheets and assignments. MSci students undertake a substantial research project in their final year. This involves developing the skills to develop and lead project work, and to present scientific results both as a formal written report and a talk.

Examinations

Most modules require the sitting of an unseen examination, to assess individual understanding of physical concepts and the ability to tackle problems in the taught areas of physics.

Computer Based Assessment

Some modules use online quizzes/tests as part of the module assessment. This tests basic knowledge, understanding and problem solving.

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Feedback

As students progress through their course at Queen’s they will receive general and specific feedback about their work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module coordinators, personal tutors, advisers of study and peers (other students). University students are expected to engage with reflective practice and to use this approach to improve the quality of their work. Feedback may be provided in a variety of forms including:

Feedback provided via formal written comments and marks relating to work that you, as an individual or as part of a group, have submitted.

Face to face comment. This may include occasions when you make use of 1-1 discussions with lecturers to help you to address a specific query.

Online or emailed comment.

General comments or question and answer opportunities at the end of a lecture, seminar or tutorial.

Pre-submission advice regarding the standards you should aim for and common pitfalls to avoid. In some instances, this may be provided in the form of model answers or exemplars which you can review in your own time.

Feedback and outcomes from experimental classes and computer workshops.

Comment and guidance provided by staff from specialist support services including Careers, Employability and Skills or the Learning Development Service.

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Facilities

Undergraduate Teaching Centre

Throughout their time with us, students will use the new Mathematics and Physics Teaching Centre. Opened in 2016 with almost £2 million of new equipment, students can use the well-equipped twin computer rooms for both self-study and project work. This includes a small astronomical observatory on the roof of the main building. In the physics laboratories, students will be able to investigate everything from the nature of lasers, to the quantum mechanical properties of the electron, to the dynamic hydrogen chromosphere of the Sun.

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Overview

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Modules

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Modules

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2022/23). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

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Core Modules

Scientific Skills

(20 credits)

Computational Modelling in Physics

(20 credits)

Mathematics for Scientists and Engineers

(40 credits)

Foundation Physics

(40 credits)

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Core Modules

Atomic and Nuclear Physics

(20 credits)

Mathematical Physics

(20 credits)

Quantum & Statistical Physics

(20 credits)

Electricity, Magnetism and Optics

(20 credits)

Astrophysics I

(20 credits)

Physics of the Solid State

(20 credits)

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Optional Modules

Employability for Physics

(0 credits)

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Core Modules

Physics in Medicine

(20 credits)

Professional Skills

(20 credits)

Computational Projects

(20 credits)

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Optional Modules

Nuclear and Particle Physics

(20 credits)

Advanced Electromagnetism and Optics

(20 credits)

Advanced Solid State Physics

(20 credits)

Astrophysics II

(20 credits)

Quantum Mechanics and Relativity

(20 credits)

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Core Modules

Medical Radiation Simulation

(10 credits)

Ionising Radiation in Medicine

(10 credits)

Physics Research Project

(60 credits)

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Optional Modules

The Physics of Nanomaterials

(10 credits)

Cosmology

(10 credits)

Physics of Materials Characterisation

(10 credits)

Ultrafast Science

(10 credits)

Laser Physics

(10 credits)

Planetary Systems

(10 credits)

High Energy Astrophysics

(10 credits)

Plasma Physics

(10 credits)

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Course content

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Entry Requirements

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Career Prospects

Introduction

Students are encouraged to apply for summer or extended placements with local companies. Employers who specifically seek our Physics students for placements include Seagate and General Electric. Some MSci projects are undertaken in collaboration with outside organisations, including local companies, the NHS, and national and international facilities.

According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, 5 years after graduation, Physics graduates earn 15 per cent more on average than other graduates (IFS 2018) with female graduates the 4th highest earners compared to all other subjects (5th for males).

Physics-related jobs are available in research, development, and general production in many high technology and related industries. These include medicine, biotechnology, electronics, optics, aerospace, computation and nuclear technology. Physics graduates are also sought after for many other jobs, such as business consultancy, finance, business, insurance, taxation and accountancy, where their problem-solving skills and numeracy are highly valued. In Northern Ireland alone in 2015, there were almost 59,000 jobs in physics based industries (Institute of Physics Report 2017).

About half of our students go on to further study after graduation. Some physics graduates take up careers in education, while a number are accepted for a PhD programme in Physics, which can enhance employment prospects or provide a path to a research physicist position. Most of the rest of our graduates move rapidly into full-time employment, most in careers that require a degree.

Skills to enhance employability

As part of the assessment within our modules, students will have to prepare reports, give presentations and work together within small groups. Students will become experienced in using spreadsheet and word processing software to analyse and communicate their findings. Additionally, basic computer programming is taught to allow computational modelling of physical phenomena, which can then be applied to many non-scientific areas of commerce and industry. The problem-solving and communication skills that are essential to scientific study are also recognised as important attributes for many other careers.

Employment after the Course

Typical career destinations of graduates include:

• Industrial Physics

• Telecommunications

• Medical Physics

• Research scientist

• Computer technology

• Forensic accountant

• Nuclear Physics

• Biophysics

• Education

• Financial analysis

Graduate employers include: BT; Seagate; Allstate; NYSE; Andor; Civil Service

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What employers say

The Regional Medical Physics Service benefits hugely from the high quality graduates produced by the School of Maths and Physics at Queen’s University Belfast. Since the turn of the century, two thirds of all our Clinical Scientists obtained a Physics degree at Queen’s prior to joining the Service. The vast majority of these degrees were at integrated masters level or higher.

Prof. Alan Hounsell, Head of the Regional Medical Physics Service, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust

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Additional Awards Gained

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Prizes and Awards

Top performing students are eligible for a number of prizes within the School.

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Degree plus award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Degree Plus. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

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Entry requirements

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Fees and Funding