Program Overview

MSc by Research Nuclear Physics / Overview

Overview

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Manchester is one of the largest and most active physics departments in the UK. We have a long tradition of excellence in both teaching and research, and have interests in most areas of contemporary research.

Entry Requirements

• The standard academic entry requirement for an MSc by Research in the Faculty of Science and Engineering is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the MSc by Research (or international equivalent).

Application and Selection

• Apply online
• In your application, you'll need to include:
  • The name of this programme
  • Your research project title (i.e., the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
  • Your proposed supervisor's name
  • If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
  • A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
  • Details of your previous university-level study
  • Names and contact details of your two referees

Programme Details

• Duration: 12 Months [Full-Time]
• Degree Awarded: MSc by Research
• Programme Options:
  • Full-time: Y
  • Part-time: Y
  • Full-time distance learning: N
  • Part-time distance learning: N

Programme Description

The field of nuclear physics aims to understand the structure and dynamics of nuclear systems. The field is motivated to answer questions on how the Universe is evolving, how stars develop, and how the basic constituents of matter interact. Our research also has applications that benefit society in diverse areas, from medicine and security to power production.

The atomic nucleus is a unique laboratory where the microscopic quantum world merges with the mesoscopic world. The structure, shape, and lifetime of nuclei are driven by the interplay of the strong, weak, and electromagnetic forces between individual nucleons. Remarkably, these complex many-body systems display regularities and simple patterns that arise from the underlying nature of the nuclear force. Through precise experimental measurement, these effects and their implications can be studied and address the challenge of understanding the atomic nucleus from first principles, as well as understanding the influence that the properties of atomic nuclei have on astrophysical processes, on other areas of physics, and on applications.

Research conducted by the Manchester group contributes to this international effort, and our students have played leading roles in recent scientific highlights.

The Manchester group collaborates with researchers across the world at international facilities such as CERN and Argonne National Laboratory. Our postgraduate MSc and PhD projects offer the opportunity to work at the frontier of the field, providing training in state-of-the-art experimental techniques of transfer reactions, gamma-ray spectroscopy, and measurements of hyperfine atomic effects using lasers.

The postgraduate research environment is well-funded and world-class, as demonstrated by our ranking in REF2021. Supervision is provided by academic staff, who are leaders in their fields, with independent pastoral back-up. Transferable skills training is available, and there are some school teaching opportunities.

Careers

• For more information about research themes within the department, please visit our themes page or view available projects within the department on our Postgraduate Research projects page.

Fees

• For entry in the academic year beginning September 2025, the tuition fees are as follows:
  • MSc by Research (full-time)
    • UK students (per annum): Band A - £5,006.00; Band B - £7,400; Band C - £10,500; Band D - £15,200; Band E - £25,700
    • International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A - £29,400; Band B - £31,500; Band C - £37,300; Band D - £45,200; Band E - £59,900
  • MSc by Research (part-time)
    • UK students (per annum): Band A - £2,503.00; Band B - £3,700; Band C - £5,250; Band D - £7,600; Band E - £12,850
    • International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A - £14,700; Band B - £15,750; Band C - £18,650; Band D - £22,600; Band E - £29,950

Scholarships/Sponsorships

• There are a range of scholarships, studentships, and awards at university, faculty, and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.
• To be considered for many of our scholarships, you'll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we'd highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

• The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of Manchester, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.
• Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired, and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.
• To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our programmes address.
  • Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
    • Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all

School/Faculty Overview

• Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research-led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality. Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester.