Program Overview

Program Overview

The MPhys Physics with Advanced Research is a 5-year integrated Masters program designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in physics, emphasizing advanced research skills and techniques. This program is ideal for highly ambitious and motivated students who wish to immerse themselves in the cutting-edge world of physics research.

Course Structure

The program consists of five years of study, with the first three years providing a solid foundation in physics, mathematics, and problem-solving skills. The final two years focus on advanced research skills, with students undertaking an individual project embedded in one of the department's research groups.

Year 1

• Department of Physics staff deliver the foundations of physics, mathematics, and problem-solving to establish a strong base for future learning.
• Essential mechanics, waves, and fundamental electromagnetism and quantum physics are covered, supported by a bespoke mathematics course.
• Introduction to the programming language Python and practical work in the teaching laboratory to give basic skills needed to complete and report on the first mini-project.

Year 2

• Building on the previous year's topics, with a focus on creating a foundation for complex concepts.
• Bespoke mathematics course continues to help tackle problems and apply concepts across mechanics, waves, electromagnetism, and quantum physics.
• Development of computational physics models in Python and extension of experimental skills.

Year 3

• Extending concepts from Years 1 and 2, relating the physics of mechanics, waves, electromagnetism, and quantum physics to the intricacies of the quantum realm, thermodynamics, and solid-state physics.
• Application of problem-solving skills to more sophisticated theoretical, computational, and experimental challenges.
• Optional modules to extend knowledge in specific areas.

Year 4

• Undertaking an individual project embedded in one of the department's research groups, supervised by a member of staff.
• Selection of optional modules from topics such as nanoscience, photonics, and plasma physics.
• Development of advanced measurement, data recording, and analysis skills.

Year 5

• Development of further expertise in research and critical thinking through bespoke courses and a research-intensive project.
• Selection of optional modules in topics such as advanced nanoscience, advanced photonics, quantum technology, and quantum optics.
• Presentation of research results in the form of a typical high-impact research paper.

Research Project

• Undertaken in Years 4 and 5, covering an area of physics identified by an academic member of staff.
• The project is carried out over both semesters in Year 4 and extended into Year 5.
• Topics may be experimental, theoretical, or computational physics, or a mixture of all three.

Learning and Teaching

• Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, interactive learning using web-based teaching resources, directed and open-ended laboratory work, group-based learning, and self-paced project work.
• Assessment methods include exams, continuous assessment, written reports, moderated peer assessment in tutorials and workshops, and talks and poster sessions.

Entry Requirements

• Required subjects are Physics and Mathematics.
• Standard entry requirements: AAAA / AAABB (Physics A, Mathematics A) for Highers, ABB (Physics and Mathematics) for A Levels.
• Minimum entry requirements: AABB (Physics B, Mathematics B) for Highers.
• International Baccalaureate: 32 (Year 1 entry), 34 (Year 2 entry) with Physics HL5, Mathematics HL5.

Fees and Funding

• Fees for 2025/26: £1,820 (Scotland), £9,535 (England, Wales & Northern Ireland), £27,800 (International).
• Available scholarships and funding opportunities for students.
• Information on tuition fees, living costs, and financial support.

Careers

• Physics graduates are in high demand across various sectors, including research, industry, healthcare, and education.
• Career paths include research scientists, technical roles, quantitative roles, healthcare professionals, and communication roles.
• Average starting salaries for physics graduates range from £27,000 to £39,000, depending on the sector and role.

Additional Information

• The University of Strathclyde is committed to providing a high-quality education and research experience.
• The Department of Physics is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including recently refurbished experimental laboratories.
• Students have access to a range of resources, including academic support, career guidance, and extracurricular activities.