Physics MPhys

Program Overview

---

The MPhys Physics degree at Aberystwyth University is a four-year program accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP). It provides students with a comprehensive understanding of physics and prepares them for careers in research, industry, or teaching. The program emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects of physics, with a strong focus on experimental work and research skills development. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in various fields, including medical physics, research science, and product development.

Program Outline

---

Degree Overview:

The MPhys Physics degree at Aberystwyth University is a four-year program accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP). It is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of physics and to prepare them for a career in research, industry, or teaching. The program emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects of physics, with a strong focus on experimental work.

---

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of physics.
• Develop students' analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Equip students with the practical skills necessary to conduct research and develop new technologies.
• Prepare students for a successful career in physics or a related field.

---

Outline:

---

Year 1:

• Core Modules:
• Algebra and Differential Equations (PH16210) - 10 credits
• Calculus (MP10610) - 10 credits
• Dynamics, Waves and Heat (PH10020) - 20 credits
• Electricity, Magnetism and Matter (PH11120) - 20 credits
• Further Algebra and Calculus (MP11010) - 10 credits
• Laboratory Techniques for Experimental Physicists and Engineers (PH15720) - 20 credits
• Modern Physics (PH14310) - 10 credits
• Physics Career Planning and Skills Development (PH12910) - 10 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Astronomy (PH18010) - 10 credits
• Communication and Technology (PH19510) - 10 credits
• Energy and the Environment (PH19010) - 10 credits

---

Year 2:

• Core Modules:
• Electricity and Magnetism (PH22510) - 10 credits
• Mathematical Physics (PM26020) - 20 credits
• Numerical Techniques for Physicists (PH26620) - 20 credits
• Optics (PH22010) - 10 credits
• Practical Research Skills (PH25720) - 20 credits
• Principles of Quantum Mechanics (PH23010) - 10 credits
• Sensors, Electronics & Instrumentation (PH24520) - 20 credits
• Thermodynamics (PH21510) - 10 credits

---

Year 3:

• Core Modules:
• Concepts in Condensed Matter Physics (PH32410) - 10 credits
• Materials Physics (PH33810) - 10 credits
• Modern Optics and Photonics (PH34510) - 10 credits
• Particles, Quanta and Fields (PH33020) - 20 credits
• Project (PH37540) - 40 credits
• Semiconductor Technology (PH33610) - 10 credits

---

Year 4:

• Core Modules:
• Advanced Quantum Physics (PHM3010) - 10 credits
• Advanced Research Topics (PHM7020) - 20 credits
• Advanced Skills in Physics (PHM6420) - 20 credits
• Electromagnetic Theory (PHM2510) - 10 credits
• Major Project (PHM5860) - 60 credits

---

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Coursework
• Presentations
• Lab reports
• Lab diaries
• Examinations

---

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Practicals
• Individual and group-based project work
• Faculty:
• All lecturers in the Department of Physics are qualified to PhD level and have a track record of research in their fields of specialization.
• Unique Approaches:
• The program includes an intensive residential course that focuses on planning a project, communication, self-management skills, and structured group work on presenting and assessing projects.

---

Careers:

Graduates of the MPhys Physics program at Aberystwyth University have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Protection
• Research Science
• Systems Development
• Product Development
• Technical Publishing
• Meteorology

---

Other:

• The program is designed to enhance students' employability by developing their research and data analysis skills, mathematical and computational skills, problem-solving and creative thinking skills, and communication skills.
• Students have the opportunity to complete a Personal Development Plan (PDP) at Aberystwyth, which helps them to chart their personal, academic, and professional development.
• The program offers a variety of work experience opportunities, including GO Wales and YES (Year in Employment Scheme).
• The program is taught by experts in their field, including researchers involved in the European Space Agency ExoMars 2020 Project and engineering low dimensional materials (e.g., graphene).
• The program is taught in English, but some modules are also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh.