Physics with Astronomy MSci Hons draft

Program Overview

This physics degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering topics from classical mechanics to cosmology. Students develop skills in microscopy, nanostructure manipulation, and research project management. The program prepares graduates for careers in various industries, including engineering, aerospace, and academic research, and provides opportunities for summer research internships and industry connections.

Program Outline

Outline:

Year One

• From Newton to Einstein
• Introductory Experimental Physics
• Frontiers in Physics
• Quantitative Physics
• Basic Mathematical Methods for Physics
• Computing For Physical Science

Year Two

• The Quantum World
• Thermal and Statistical Physics
• Classical Fields
• Wave Phenomena
• Intermediate Experimental Physics
• The Structure of Stars
• The Structure of Galaxies

Year Three

• Atoms, Photons and Fundamental Particles
• Introduction to Cosmology
• Introduction to Solid State Physics
• Extreme Astrophysics
• Physics Project
• Quantum Dynamics

Optional Year 3 Modules

• Principles of Dynamics
• Atmospheric and Planetary Physics
• Functional Medical Imaging
• Scientific Computing
• Semiconductor Physics
• Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics
• Force and Function at the Nanoscale
• Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos
• Symmetry and Action Principles in Physics
• Soft Condensed Matter
• Molecular Biophysics
• From Accelerators to Medical Imaging
• Health Physics

Year Four

• Physics Research Project
• Research Techniques in Astronomy

Optional Year 4 Modules

• Order, Disorder and Fluctuations
• Modern Cosmology
• Magnetic Resonance
• The Politics, Perception and Philosophy of Physics
• Quantum Transport
• Imaging and Data Processing
• Gravity
• Light and Matter
• Modern Applications of Physics: From Research to Industry

Assessment:

• Examinations (80%)
• Coursework and workshop assignments (20%)
• Lab reports
• Research project
• Written exam

Teaching:

• Lectures
• Problem classes
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Lab sessions
• Computer labs
• Seminars

Careers:

• Engineering
• Aerospace
• IT
• Finance
• Academic research
• Teaching
• Science communication

Other:

• Students have the opportunity to undertake paid summer research internships within the School of Physics and Astronomy.
• The program provides students with key skills in microscopy and imaging and manipulating nanostructures.
• The program is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain's leading graduate employers.