Particle Physics

Subject Description

Were you left wondering what all the fuss was about a couple of years ago with the launch of the Large Hadron Collider at CERN?  Or did it inspire a curiosity that could see you investigating the world as we know it to infinitesimally detailed level? If so then Particle Physics could be just the course you are looking for.  As the study of the constituents of matter and radiation as well as the interaction between them, it can be said that particle physics provides the understanding of the fundamentals of all other science and, in a more general context, an understanding of our existence. With the prospect of the Large Hadron Collider being able to re-create the moment that occurred just a billionth of a second after the Big Bang, there has never been a more exciting time to embark on a course in Particle Physics.

Courses in particle physics tend to divide their time between learning by exploring and/or solving problems and the more traditional notion of acquiring knowledge.  Your course could see you exploring notions as vast as cosmology through to the microscopic, such as the accelerated collision of particles.  Analytics and free thought are embraced throughout teaching methods with most institutions placing an emphasis on small-group tutorials and individual investigative projects. You may also find yourself pushing the boundaries of technology utilising nanotechnology, photonics and superconductivity.  Graduates in particle physics can expect to become highly trained in experimental techniques as well as developing an in-depth understanding of the foundations of physics.

Some courses also offer the opportunity for a year studying abroad including a limited number of opportunities to study at CERN as a sandwich year.  It is worth investigating your preferred institutions thoroughly to gain a full appreciation of the breadth of opportunities they are able to offer you to make sure you are making the correct choice.  This is particularly salient as many institutions offer you the opportunity to study flexibly, incorporating modules from other related courses - if you have a definite idea of the individual areas you wish to study it is worth making sure that all of those areas are covered at your chosen institution before you submit your application.

Example Areas of Study

There are a vast number of subjects covered by particle physics and the focus of each course differs from institution to institution.  You will need to check with your preferred place of learning directly to find out the exact subjects you will be studying.  Common subjects covered include:

• Physics
• Mathematics
• Physics skills
• Quantum mechanics
• Electromagnetism
• Waves and optics
• Properties of matter
• Space-time physics
• Particles and nuclei
• Computer programming
• Structure of the universe
• Introductory astrophysics
• Introductory cosmology
• Detection and acceleration of particles
• Applied quantum mechanics
• Physics of fluids
• Statistical physics
• Circuits and devices
• Particle physics
• Solid-state physics
• Project skills
• Stellar astrophysics
• Big Bang cosmology
• CP violation
• Super symmetry
• Dynamics
• Electricity and magnetism
• Thermal physics
• Modern physics
• Computing

Some Career Possibilities

As a graduate of particle physics you can expect to finish your course with refined communication skills, high-level research skills and specialist knowledge that can open up a number of career opportunities both outside of the traditional physics sphere as well as within it.  You may consider continuing on to become a research physicist within an industry, government or university laboratory, or you may opt for more mainstream careers such as within IT, electronic engineering or Scientific journalism.  Because of the essential relationship physics has with mathematics, with some further training you may also find yourself considering financial roles such as accounting and merchant banking.

What do I need to get on a Course?

Entry requirements vary from course to course so you will need to check with your preferred institution to get up-to-date information on the requirements they have for entry.  To give you a general idea of what is expected please see below:

• UCAS Tarriff: 260-360 points including science subjects
• A-Levels: BCC-AAA including science subjects
• SQA Highers: BBBBB-AABBB including science subjects
• Irish Leaving Certificates: BBBBBB including science subjects
• European Baccalaureate: 70% including science subjects
• International Baccalaureate: 28-36 points, including science subjects
• Foundation / Access course: 60-65% including science subjects
• BTEC: DMM-DDM in a relevant science subject
• HND / C: Direct access to year 2
• Mature Entry: Mature entrants are actively encouraged and considered on an individual basis
• Entry requirements can be relaxed for some mature candidates
• Achievements in Mathematics and Physics at all levels are required

For Your Application or Interview, the Following May be Useful:

• Further information can be found at CERN, Particle Physics UK, Science and Technology Physics Council and The Institute of Physics

To find out more about the typical subjects you will study, potential career paths and further information useful for your application log-on to Course Discover at www.coursediscoveronline.co.uk*

*NB: Your school or college will need a subscription to Course Discover in order for you to gain access, for further information go to:www.coursediscover.co.uk