Program Overview

Physics with Computer Science MSci

Overview

The Physics with Computer Science MSci course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of physics and computer science, preparing them for a career in a physics or science-based field. The course develops skills in problem-solving, communicating, teamwork, and computer literacy, which are highly valued by employers.

Entry Requirements

• Qualification: MSci Hons
• Entry Requirements: AAA
• UCAS code: F4G4
• Duration: 5 years full-time
• Fees: £9,535

Course Structure

The course is divided into five years, with the first year covering the basics of physics and computer science. The second year focuses on core theories of physics, while the third year delves into computer science, including programming, databases, and software engineering. The fourth year expands on physics, covering topics such as atomic, nuclear, and particle physics, and the fifth year focuses on a research project and synoptic modules.

Modules

• Year 1:
  • Basic Mathematical Methods for Physics
  • Computing for Physical Science
  • From Newton to Einstein
  • Frontiers in Physics
  • Introductory Experimental Physics
  • Quantitative Physics
• Year 2:
  • Classical Fields
  • Intermediate Experimental Physics
  • The Quantum World
  • Thermal and Statistical Physics
  • Wave Phenomena
  • Optional modules: Force and Function at the Nanoscale, Health Physics, Molecular Biophysics, Principles of Dynamics, The Structure of Galaxies, The Structure of Stars, Theory Toolbox
• Year 3:
  • Databases, Interfaces and Software Design Principles
  • Programming
  • Systems and Networks
  • Optional modules: Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence, Introduction to Human Computer Interaction, Introduction to Image Processing, Introduction to Software Engineering, Software Specification
• Year 4:
  • Atoms, Photons and Fundamental Particles
  • Introduction to Solid State Physics
  • Physics Project
  • Optional modules: Atmospheric and Planetary Physics, Enterprise for Scientists, Extreme Astrophysics, Force and Function at the Nanoscale, From Accelerators to Medical Imaging, Functional Medical Imaging, Health Physics, Introduction to Cosmology, Molecular Biophysics, Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos, Quantum Dynamics, Scientific Computing, Semiconductor Physics, Soft Condensed Matter, Symmetry and Action Principles in Physics, The Structure of Galaxies, The Structure of Stars, Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics, Theory Toolbox
• Year 5:
  • Physics Research Project
  • Optional modules: Advanced Techniques for Nanoscience Research, Gravity, Imaging and Data Processing, Light and Matter, Magnetic Resonance, Modern Applications of Physics: From Research to Industry, Modern Cosmology, Order, Disorder and Fluctuations, Quantum Coherent Devices, Quantum Transport, Research Techniques in Astronomy, The Politics, Perception and Philosophy of Physics

Assessment

• Coursework
• Group project
• Lab reports
• Research project
• Written exam

Careers

• The course is ideal for students interested in a physics or science-based career.
• Over 20% of physics MSci graduates work as programmers and software development professionals.
• Other popular roles include data analysts, secondary education teaching professionals, IT business analysts, architects and systems designers, and finance and investment analysts and advisers.
• Top employers include BT, Experian, University of Nottingham, and the Home Office.

Campus

• University Park Campus
• Jubilee Campus

Additional Information

• The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain's leading graduate employers.
• The university's Careers and Employability Service can work with students to improve their employability skills and provide support with job or course applications.