Module Information

The following modules are available in 2023/24 for the Physics MSc and are examples of the modules you are likely to study. All Modules are subject to change. You will study 180 credits in total.

Compulsory modules

MSc Project - 90 credits

Creating a plan for research work with a supervisor working as part of an effective team to produce results.

Current Research Topics in Physics - 15 credits

Appreciate the frontiers of knowledge and understanding in these areas and discuss at an appropriate level some current significant results in different areas of Physics, as well as experience research seminar presentations from leading physicists and critically analyse some aspects of these results.

Optional modules include:

Star and Planet Formation - 15 credits 

Stars and their surrounding planetary systems form from material within large, cold, and dense molecular clouds found throughout the interstellar medium. This module will instruct on the physics governing i) the formation of stars, ii) the impact of young stars on their immediate environment, and iii) the birth and evolution of (exo)planetary systems. Also covered will be current knowledge based on observations across multiple wavelengths from state-of-the-art telescopes.

Soft Matter Physics: Liquid Crystals - 15 credits 

Having learnt about solids, liquids and gases, you are ready to learn some soft matter physics and liquid crystals. These are important states of matter that have intermediate order between the liquid and crystal solids. They are relevant to many aspects of science and technology, from display devices to biological. This module will provide you with the background physics behind the principal liquid crystal phases.

Quantum Information Science and Technology - 15 credits

Acquire the ability to describe the applications and limitations of classical information theory and the processes of quantum communications, solve numerical examples of problems in transmission of quantum information through noisy channels and explain, quantitatively, the fundamental processes of quantum entanglement.

Superconductivity - 15 credits

Develop skills to communicate complex scientific ideas concisely, accurately, and informatively, managing own learning and making use of appropriate texts, illustrations and figures, research articles and other primary sources,  and manage time and deliver work to deadlines.

The full list of optional modules can be read in the course catalogue.