Physics BSc (Hons)

Overview

This physics degree covers subjects including dynamics, electromagnetism, photonics and optics and astrophysics. These areas lead onto the quantum world of subatomic particles, the fascinating nature of light and the challenging but wonderful fields of quantum physics and relativity. Mathematics and practical work play an important part throughout the course, and specialist courses provided a background in physical maths and lab skills for physics applications. In later years, the course offers more specialist topics, including laser physics, solid state physics, optoelectronic devices, nuclear physics and biophysics.

In Year 4, individual research projects in world leading research groups allow you to develop skills in advanced experimental design, modelling and computation. Throughout, the programme will also help with your practical abilities, initiative and teamwork. The Physics degree provides broad and comprehensive training in all aspects of physics and modern science, and is well suited to both non-academic careers and careers in research.

Accreditation

This honours degree in Physics is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) for the purpose of partially meeting the educational requirement for Chartered Physicist.

Teaching and Learning

A variety of techniques are used to help the student learn the varied and complex skills of a physicist. The learning process takes place through lectures, small group tutorials, practical laboratories, and computer assisted open-learning. Subject-specific skills (both cognitive and practical) are acquired and developed through a combination of laboratory experiments, tutorials, problem-solving classes, open learning resources, computer modelling, presentations, project work and coursework exercises.

Personal abilities are incorporated within courses and are explicit throughout each stage of the course. Opportunities to acquire and develop these skills are provided through, for example, the Communication Skills activities and also through presentations, laboratories, group and individual projects, tutorials (both tutor and student-led) and self-directed learning materials.

Assessment

The assessment policy for the course incorporates a range of assessment types: informal diagnostic tests which determine preparedness for a topic or course; formative tests during courses which provide feedback on performance and are used to inform further development. Continuous assessment during courses and summative assessment at the conclusion of courses both contribute to the overall assessment and are used to measure formally achievement in specified learning outcomes.