Physics with Particle Physics and Cosmology MSci

Program Overview

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With a deep focus on particle physics and cosmology, this program empowers students to explore the smallest and largest scales of existence, preparing them for cutting-edge research and careers in scientific fields.

Program Outline

The program draws on the expertise of Birmingham's particle physicists and astronomers, who are actively involved in cutting-edge research at CERN and other international laboratories and observatories. This allows students to gain theoretical and practical skills from experts in their field.

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Outline:

The program is a four-year Masters of Science (MSci) degree, with a three-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) version also available. The first two years of the BSc and MSci programs are identical, allowing students to make their final decision between the two at the end of the second year.

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Year 1:

• Classical Mechanics and Relativity 1: 10 credits
• Classical Mechanics and Relativity 2: 10 credits
• Electromagnetism and Temperature and Matter: 20 credits
• Introduction to Particle Physics and Cosmology: 10 credits
• Introduction to Probability and Statistics: 10 credits
• Mathematics for Physicists 1A: 10 credits
• Mathematics for Physicists 1B: 10 credits
• Physics Laboratory 1A: 10 credits
• Physics Laboratory 1B: 10 credits
• Physics and Communication Skills 1: 10 credits
• Quantum Mechanics and Optics and Waves: 10 credits

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Year 2:

• Core Modules:
• Electromagnetism 2:
10 credits
• Mathematics for Physicists 2A:
10 credits
• Mathematics for Physicists 2B:
10 credits
• Nuclear Physics and Neutrinos:
10 credits
• Optics:
10 credits
• Particles and Nuclei & A Quantum Approach to Solids:
10 credits
• Physics and Communication Skills 2:
10 credits
• Physics Laboratory 2:
10 credits
• Physics Project:
10 credits
• Quantum Mechanics 2:
10 credits
• Statistical Physics and Entropy:
10 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Eigenphysics:
10 credits
• Electronics:
10 credits
• Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Mechanics:
10 credits
• Observational Astronomy:
10 credits
• Structure in the Universe:
10 credits

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Year 3:

• Core Modules:
• General Physics:
10 credits
• Group Studies:
20 credits
• Observational Cosmology:
10 credits
• Particle Physics:
10 credits
• Quantum Mechanics 3:
10 credits
• Statistical Physics:
10 credits
• Laboratory:
• Laboratory (10cr):
10 credits
• Laboratory (20cr):
20 credits
• Scientific Computing:
• Scientific Computing Laboratory 1:
10 credits
• Scientific Computing Laboratory 2:
10 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Atomic Physics:
10 credits
• Biophysics:
10 credits
• Chaos and Dynamical Systems:
10 credits
• Complex Variable Theory:
10 credits
• Condensed Matter Physics:
10 credits
• Evolution of Cosmic Structure:
10 credits
• Exoplanets:
10 credits
• Fission and Fusion:
10 credits
• Images and Communications:
10 credits
• Medical Imaging:
10 credits
• Nuclear Physics:
10 credits
• Physics Critique:
10 credits
• Physical Principles of Radar:
10 credits
• Physics Teaching in Schools:
10 credits
• Radiation and Relativity:
10 credits
• The Life and Death of Stars:
10 credits

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Year 4:

• Core Modules:
• Advanced Particle Physics Techniques:
10 credits
• Current Topics in Particle Physics:
10 credits
• Project Dissertation:
20 credits
• Project Planning and Preliminary Report:
10 credits
• Project Seminar and Viva:
20 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Advanced Condensed Matter Physics:
10 credits
• Complex Variable Theory:
10 credits
• Condensed Matter Physics:
10 credits
• Evolution of Cosmic Structure:
10 credits
• Exoplanets:
10 credits
• Fission and Fusion:
10 credits
• Images and Communications:
10 credits
• Inference from Scientific Data:
10 credits
• Many Particle and Quantum Field Theory:
10 credits
• Nanophotonics:
10 credits
• Nuclear Physics:
10 credits
• Phase Transitions:
10 credits
• Physics of Renewable Energy:
10 credits
• Quantum Mechanics 4:
10 credits
• Quantum Optics:
10 credits
• Relativistic Astrophysics:
10 credits
• Superconductivity:
10 credits
• The General Theory of Relativity:
10 credits
• Ultracold Atoms and Quantum Gases:
10 credits

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Assessment:

Modules are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams
• Class tests
• Problem sheets
• Lab assignments
• Project reports
There is a strong emphasis on project work in the final year of the degree course. Lab work is assessed continuously throughout the term.

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Teaching:

• Most modules are delivered through traditional lectures given by active physics researchers.
• Students also learn through tutorials, examples classes, guided study, laboratory practicals, and project work.
• Lab work is an integral part of the degree courses.
• Computing and transferable skills are interwoven into the studies.

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Careers:

Graduates of the Physics with Particle Physics and Cosmology MSci program have a wide range of career options, including:

• Scientific researcher
• Medical physicist
• Energy consultant
• Defence analyst
• Meteorologist
• Statistician
• Financial services analyst
• Business consultant
Over 40% of students go on to further study after graduating, with around two-thirds pursuing research leading to a PhD. A PhD opens doors to many careers that require specific advanced scientific knowledge.

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Other:

• The program is accredited by the Institute of Physics.
• Students have the opportunity to visit CERN during their degree and have a tour of the laboratory guided by Birmingham physicists who work there.
• The program offers a friendly and supportive environment, with weekly tutorials for first and second-year students, open door policies for lecturers, and elected student representatives who meet weekly with staff to resolve issues.
• The program provides flexibility in choosing specialized courses and projects.
• The program is highly employable, with a high percentage of graduates going on to PhDs.
• The program is embedded with employability through the course.
• The program offers a broad range of leading research, leading to a wide range of optional modules and projects.
• The program is part of the School of Physics and Astronomy, which is heavily involved with research at CERN.
• The program offers state-of-the-art teaching facilities, including study spaces, computing suites, and teaching laboratories.
• The program offers research facilities, including a particle accelerator, the MC40 cyclotron, and laboratories used for the construction of detectors and electronics used in experiments at the LHC, CERN.
• The program is home to one of the four UK Quantum Technology hubs, which at Birmingham is developing state-of-the-art quantum sensors.

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Annual tuition fees 2024/25 UK EU International Undergraduate £9,250 £9,250 £18,030 Postgraduate (Taught) £9,250 £9,250 £18,030 Postgraduate (Research) £4,890 £4,890 £15,730 Fees for placement years (where applicable) £1,750 Tuition fees for sandwich courses include the placement year. Fees are normally reviewed annually by the University in line with inflation and other financial pressures. The University will give notification of any changes to fees as soon as reasonably practicable. If international students are not able to secure a Tier4 (General) visa to study in the UK, a full refund of the tuition fee will be given less any administrative costs incurred. International students will be liable for the cost of a Tier4 (General) visa, and should also note that this visa requires payment of an Immigration Health Surcharge. Methods of Payment Payment of fees is due in 2 equal instalments, as set out below and your statement will reflect this: • 50% of the fee due by 1st October for the first term (or latest registration date for the term) • 50% of the fee due by1st March for the second term. You will be able to pay online or by any of the methods listed on the University’s website. Birmingham University University of Birmingham Edgbaston Birmingham B15 2TT +44(0)12141432891 - fax SWIFT (BIC) - BARCGB22 IBAN- GB52BARC202015313466658 (please quote payment reference when making a transfer) Students who are experiencing financial hardship may apply for a deferment of payment. For all other students please contact Fees and Funding.