Physics with Astronomy BSc (Hons) drafted
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-25 | - |
Program Overview
Course overview
The BSc (Hons) Physics with Astronomy is taught jointly by world-leading academics from the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University. The three-year Physics and Astronomy degree gives students a wide appreciation of the varied astronomical phenomena in the physical Universe.
Introduction
From the formation, evolution and deaths of stars (involving planetary systems, nucleosynthesis and supernovae) through structure of galaxies to the evolution of the Universe itself, the degree structure introduces the physics involved in the cosmos.
Anyone who is curious about the fundamental laws of nature will enjoy Physics. It is one of the few disciplines that really challenge our view of the world. For example, in relativity we find that space and time are entangled and that clocks run slowly under the influence of a gravitational field. When we examine the world on a microscopic scale, we are in the realm of quantum mechanics, where the predictions, such as wave-particle duality, even seem strange to the physicists who study its foundations.
The three-year Physics and Astronomy degree will equip students with skills relevant for jobs in a wide range of careers, from education, research, finance and the city to industry.
The two-metre aperture Liverpool Telescope located in the Canaries, which is the largest robotically controlled telescope in the world, will provide you with unique access to observations from a major research facility when you undertake a research project in your final year.
There are opportunities to work alongside our internationally renowned academics at projects at the LHC at CERN and in many international and national research centres in the USA, Canada, Japan, Korea and many European countries.
Our flexible programmes allow students to transfer up to the end of year two between any of the physics programmes.
What you'll learn
Accreditation
This programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics, which means it satisfies the academic requirements for Chartered Physicist status.
Accreditations in detail
Program Outline
Compulsory modules
Dynamics and Relativity (PHYS101)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
The module provides an overview of Newtonian mechanics, continuing on from A-level courses. This includes: Newton’s laws of motion in linear and rotational circumstances, gravitation and Kepler’s laws of planetary motion. The theory of Relativity is then introduced, starting from a historical context, through Einstein’s postulates, leading to the Lorentz transformations.
Thermal Physics and Properties of Matter (PHYS102)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
Einstein said in 1949 that "Thermodynamics is the only physical theory of universal content which I am convinced, within the areas of applicability of its basic concepts, will never be overthrown." In this module, different aspects of thermal physics are addressed: (i) classical thermodynamics which deals with macroscopic properties, such as pressure, volume and temperature – the underlying microscopic physics is not included; (ii) kinetic theory of gases describes the properties of gases in terms of probability distributions associated with the motions of individual molecules; and (iii) statistical mechanics which starts from a microscopic description and then employs statistical methods to derive macroscopic properties. The laws of thermodynamics are introduced and applied.
WAVE PHENOMENA (PHYS103)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
Waves lie at the heart of physics, being phenomena associated with quantum wave mechanics, electromagnetic fields, communication, lasers and, spectacularly, gravitational waves. The course is divided into several major sections. The first, can be viewed as a pre-wave study of oscillations. This teaches the basics of oscillatory systems which form the backbone of an understanding of waves. The second, deals with waves in abstract; solution of the wave equation and the principles of superposition. Finally, we look at examples of wave phenomena. These are the first introduction to what will be covered in the remainder of your degree.
Foundations of Quantum Physics (PHYS104)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
This module illustrates how a series of fascinating experiments, some of which physics students will carry out in their laboratory courses, led to the realisation that Newtonian mechanics does not provide an accurate description of physical reality. As is described in the module, this failure was first seen in interactions at the atomic scale and was first seen in experiments involving atoms and electrons. The module shows how Newton’s ideas were replaced by Quantum mechanics, which has been critical to explaining phenomena ranging from the photo-electric effect to the fluctuations in the energy of the Cosmic Microwave Background. The module also explains how this revolution in physicist’s thinking paved the way for developments such as the laser.
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTATIONAL PHYSICS (PHYS105)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1
The "Introduction to computational physics" (Phys105) module is designed to introduce physics students to the use of computational techniques appropriate to the solution of physical problems. No previous computing experience is assumed. During the course of the module, students are guided through a series of structured exercises which introduce them to the Python programming language and help them acquire a range of skills including: plotting data in a variety of ways; simple Monte Carlo techniques; algorithm development; and basic symbolic manipulations. The exercises are based around the content of the first year physics modules, both encouraging students to recognise the relevance of computing to their physics studies and enabling them to develop a deeper understanding of aspects of their first year course.
PRACTICAL PHYSICS I (PHYS106)
Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session
This module teaches the laboratory side of physics to complement the taught material from lectures and to introduce key concepts of experimental physics.
Mathematics for Physicists I (PHYS107)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
This module aims to provide all students with a common foundation in mathematics, necessary for studying the physical sciences and maths courses in later semesters. All topics will begin "from the ground up" by revising ideas which may be familiar from A-level before building on these concepts. In particular, the basic principles of differentiation and integration will be practised, before extending to functions of more than one variable.
MATHEMATICS FOR PHYSICISTS II (PHYS108)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2
This module introduces some of the mathematical techniques used in physics. For example, matrices, differential equations, vector calculus and series are discussed. The ideas are first presented in lectures and then the put into practice in problems classes, with support from demonstrators and the module lecturer. When you have finished this module, you should: Be able to manipulate matrices and use matrix methods to solve simultaneous linear equations. Be familiar with methods for solving first and second order differential equations in one variable. Have a basic knowledge of vector algebra. Have a basic understanding of series, in particular of Fourier series and transforms.
INTRODUCTION TO ASTROPHYSICS (PHYS155)
Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 2
Astronomy is the study of Universe – applying a broad range of physics (and indeed chemistry and even biology) to both understand the cosmos and our place in it, andit and improve our understanding of the underlying physics. In this module you will be introduced to the constituents of the Uuniverse – from our Solar System, through stars, exoplanets and galaxies, to the evolution of spacetime -– and study some of the observational techniques used to answer outstanding questions about the cosmos.
Careers and employability
Physicists are trained to solve a range of problems, meaning your degree opens up a wide range of careers. Physics graduates are among those earning the highest starting salaries in the UK and graduates have excellent opportunities for careers in research, industry, computing, teaching, business and finance.
88%
of physics students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.
Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.
The knowledge, skills and experience that our you’ll develop during your degree are in demand by employers. Graduates have gone on to explore careers in areas as diverse as:
Progressing to research
The Department of Physics attracts considerable research income, creating excellent opportunities to progress to a research degree, particularly in the fields of condensed matter physics, nuclear physics, particle physics, nanoscience and energy.
Preparing you for future success
At Liverpool, our goal is to support you to build your intellectual, social, and cultural capital so that you graduate as a socially-conscious global citizen who is prepared for future success. We achieve this by:
Meet our alumni
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
Read more about Dr Stuart Penn
Dr Stuart Penn, BSc (Hons) Physics 1988
Dr Stuart Penn (BSc Hons Physics 1988, PhD 1992) has turned a love of science and sci-fi into a blockbuster movie career. Here he describes his journey from superconductors to special effects.
Read this story
University of Liverpool
Entry requirements
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
My qualifications are from:
United States
.
Entry requirements for applicants from the United States
Entry requirements: which qualifications do you need?
Undergraduate
The UK and US Higher Education systems are very similar, with only two main differences:
Specialisation
Undergraduate students take nearly all of their courses in their major right from the start of their course. At graduate level, programmes continue to be more specialised than in the US. For example, whereas US students might follow a Masters degree in English Literature, Liverpool programmes focus on a particular area such as Victorian Literature.
Shorter duration
Completing a UK Bachelor degree usually takes only three years. A Masters degree typically lasts for one full year. PhD programmes are usually three years in length.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate
| A Level | SAT II Subject Tests/AP Exams (accompanied by High School Graduation Diploma and SAT I Reasoning Tests/ACT Tests |
|---|---|
|
AAA |
3 AP exams (5, 5, 5) * PLUS High School Diploma GPA 3.0 or above PLUS either SAT I Reasoning Test at 1290+ (minimum Math Section 620+, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing 660+) or ACT Composite Score at 27 or above |
|
AAB |
3 AP exams (5, 5, 4) * PLUS High School Diploma GPA 3.0 or above PLUS either SAT I Reasoning Test at 1290+ (minimum Math Section 620+, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing 660+) or ACT Composite Score at 27 or above |
|
ABB |
3 AP exams (5, 4, 4) * PLUS High School Diploma GPA 3.0 or above PLUS either SAT I Reasoning Test at 1290+ (minimum Math Section 620+, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing 660+) or ACT Composite Score at 27 or above |
|
BBB |
3 AP exams (4, 4, 4) * PLUS High School Diploma GPA 3.0 or above PLUS either SAT I Reasoning Test at 1290+ (minimum Math Section 620+, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing 660+) or ACT Composite Score at 27 or above |
* We will also consider a combination of AP Level and Honours Level/College Level courses taken in High School on a case by case basis - grade B+ or higher).
English language requirements
Applicants from your country are assumed to meet all minimum English language requirements. You won’t need any language qualifications to study here or apply for a visa.
More information for visitors from the United States
| Your qualification |
Requirements
About our typical entry requirements |
|---|---|
| A levels |
ABB including Physics and Mathematics at A level. Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is BBB withA in the EPQ.You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme .If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course. Available foundation years:
|
| GCSE | 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics |
| Subject requirements |
For applicants from England: For science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a "Pass" is required. |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma |
Applications considered alongside A levels. Please contact the University for further information. |
| International Baccalaureate |
33 points that must include 6 points each from Physics and Mathematics at Higher level. |
| Irish Leaving Certificate | H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3 including Physics and Mathematics at H2 or above. |
| Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher |
Advanced Highers accepted at grades ABB including Physics and Mathematics. |
| Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | Accepted at grade B, including Mathematics and Physics A Levels at AB. |
| Access | 45 Level 3 credits in graded units in a relevant Diploma,including 30 at Distinction and a further 15 with at least Merit. GCSE grades 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics also required. 15 Distinctions are required in each of Mathematics and Physics. |
| International qualifications |
Entry requirements for applicants from United States. Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements
Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.
Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.
About our entry requirements
Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.
Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.
We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.
Alternative entry requirements
