Program Overview
The University of Nottingham's Physics with Astrophysics MSci program provides a comprehensive education in physics and astrophysics. Students develop a foundation in core physics principles and specialize in areas like cosmology, particle physics, and astrobiology. Taught by renowned researchers, the program utilizes various teaching methods and offers research opportunities, equipping graduates with skills for careers in academia, industry, and government.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Physics with Astrophysics MSci program at the University of Nottingham offers a comprehensive and rigorous education in physics and astrophysics. The program aims to provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of physics, as well as the latest developments in astrophysics. Students will gain a strong foundation in theoretical and experimental physics, and will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as cosmology, particle physics, and astrobiology. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Outline:
The Physics with Astrophysics MSci program is a four-year program that consists of a combination of core and optional modules. The core modules provide a foundation in the fundamental principles of physics, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and astrophysics. The optional modules allow students to specialize in areas of particular interest, such as cosmology, particle physics, and astrobiology. The program is structured as follows:
- Year 1: Students take core modules in mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and astrophysics.
- Year 2: Students take core modules in classical fields, wave phenomena, thermal and statistical physics, and the quantum world. They also choose optional modules from a range of topics, such as cosmology, particle physics, and astrobiology.
- Year 3: Students take core modules in atoms, photons, and fundamental particles; introduction to cosmology; and introduction to solid state physics. They also choose optional modules from a range of topics, such as cosmology, particle physics, and astrobiology.
- Year 4: Students complete a research project and take optional modules from a range of topics, such as cosmology, particle physics, and astrobiology.
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including exams, coursework, and presentations. The weighting of each assessment method varies depending on the module.
Teaching:
The Physics with Astrophysics MSci program is taught by a team of world-renowned physicists and astrophysicists. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, and laboratory work. The program also emphasizes the use of computational methods and simulations.
Careers:
Graduates of the Physics with Astrophysics MSci program have a wide range of career opportunities. They can work in academia, industry, or government. Some common career paths include:
- Research scientist
- Physicist
- Astrophysicist
- Engineer
- Data scientist
- Teacher
Other:
The Physics with Astrophysics MSci program is accredited by the Institute of Physics. The program also offers a number of opportunities for students to get involved in research, including the opportunity to work on a research project in their final year.
Entry Requirements:
- AAA
- Including A level maths and physics.
- A pass is normally required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.
- GCSE English language 4 (C).
Excluded subjects:
- General studies, critical thinking, citizenship studies, leisure studies, functional skills, global perspectives
Additional entry requirements:
- Please note: Applicants whose backgrounds or personal circumstances have impacted their academic performance may receive a reduced offer.
Non-UK entry requirements:
- Alternative qualifications: We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education. Consequently, we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we also accept students with a range of less conventional qualifications including:
- Access to HE Diploma (in combination with A level)
- Advanced Diploma
- BTEC HND/HNC (in place of a third A level)
- BTEC Extended Diploma (in place of a third A level) The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example, you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification.
- RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma - unfortunately we are unable to accept this qualification on its own due to the subject specific requirements at A level
- Pearson BTEC National Diploma RQF - unfortunately we are unable to accept this qualification on its own due to the subject specific requirements at A level
- Pearson BTEC National Extended Certificate D + AA (A level maths and physics)
- Access to HE Diploma
- Can only be considered if presented alongside A level maths and physics. There is a course for UK students and one for EU/international students.
- Mature students: At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population.
- Visa restrictions: International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases.
