Physics with Quantum Technology MPhys

Program Overview

Students engage in real-world research projects, develop professional research skills, and are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address contemporary challenges in the field, preparing them for a wide range of careers in science-based industries and beyond.

Program Outline

MPhys Physics with Quantum Technology - University of Exeter

Degree Overview:

• Accreditation: Accredited by the Institute of Physics.
• Objectives:
• Work on a real-world collaborative, open-ended research project in quantum technology.
• Gain first-hand experience of how modern research works and develop skills as a professional researcher.
• Focus on modern physics methods and applications, equipping students with the knowledge and skills for addressing contemporary challenges in the field.
• Benefit from access to advanced research facilities including advanced research and teaching labs, observatory and computer labs.
• Participate in a continuous skills development programme, designed with industry partners, to craft a digital portfolio and CV to showcase skills to potential employers.

Outline:

• Structure: 4-year program.
• Course Schedule:
• Year 1:
Introduces physics of everyday life, experimental physics, mathematical and computational data analysis skills, and professional skills development.
• Year 2: Explores advanced applications of quantum mechanics, including quantum computing, high energy physics, and solid-state physics.
Further develops transversal and personal skills as a future physicist through a dedicated skills development program. Covers topics like electromagnetism, classical field theory, quantum mechanics, and solid-state physics.
• Year 3: Develops masters project, working on a real-world collaborative, open-ended applied quantum mechanics research project.
• Final Year: Focuses on condensed matter, project and dissertation, quantum many-body theory, quantum optics and photonics, and employability skills development.
• Modules:
• Year 1:
• PHY1032 Physics of Everyday Life (60 credits)
• PHY1033 Mathematics Skills (30 credits)
• PHY1034 Computational Data Analysis (15 credits)
• PHY1035 Experimental Physics (15 credits)
• PHY1036 Employability and Professional Skills Development (0 credits)
• Year 2:
• PHY2032 Analytical and Chaotic Dynamics (15 credits)
• PHY2037 Nonlinear Optics and Imaging (15 credits)
• PHY2039 From Fields to Quanta (60 credits)
• PHY2040 Mathematics for Physicists (15 credits)
• PHY2041 Experimental Physics II (15 credits)
• PHY2042 Employability and Professional Skills Development II (0 credits)
• Year 3:
• PHY3052 Nuclear and High Energy Physics (15 credits)
• PHY3062 Methods of Theoretical Physics (15 credits)
• PHY3064 Nanostructures and Graphene Science (15 credits)
• PHY3072 Physics Project (30 credits)
• PHY3073 States of Matter (15 credits)
• PHY3074 Employability and Professional Skills Development III (0 credits)
• PHY3075 Introduction to Quantum Technology (15 credits)
• Optional Modules:
• PHY3051 Electromagnetism II (15 credits)
• PHY3061 The Biophysics of Cells and Tissues (15 credits)
• PHY3066 Galaxies and High Energy Astrophysics (15 credits)
• PHY3068 Principles of Theoretical Physics (15 credits)
• PHY3070 Stars from Birth to Death (15 credits)
• PHY3071 Soft Matter (15 credits)
• PHY3220 Fluid Dynamics in Physics and Astronomy (15 credits)
• PHY3222 Energy, Materials and Sustainability (15 credits)
• Final Year:
• PHYM003 Condensed Matter II (15 credits)
• PHYM009 Project and Dissertation (45 credits)
• PHYM013 Quantum Many-Body Theory (15 credits)
• PHYM015 Quantum Optics and Photonics (15 credits)
• PHYM020 Employability and Professional Skills Development IV (0 credits)
• Optional Modules:
• PHYM004 Computational Physics and Modelling (15 credits)
• PHYM005 Independent Study (15 credits)
• PHYM006 Relativity and Cosmology (15 credits)
• PHYM008 Physical Methods in Biology and Medicine (15 credits)
• PHYM012 Solar and Extra-Solar Planets and Their Atmospheres (15 credits)

Assessment:

• Methods: Combination of exams and continuous assessments, including problem sets, reports, multimedia presentations, posters, and vivas.
• Criteria: Varies depending on the module, ranging from 100% exam-based to 100% coursework.

Teaching:

• Methods: Classic style lecturing, weekly problem-solving classes, computing practical sessions, and laboratory sessions.
• Faculty: Experts in the field, providing research-led teaching.
• Unique Approaches:
• Weekly skills development sessions to develop transversal skills needed for academic, personal, and professional development.
• Personal academic and pastoral mentoring embedded within the department structure.
• Emphasis on research and practice-led teaching, allowing students to participate in research projects.
• Training in theoretical techniques provided through methods and computational modules.

Careers:

• Potential Paths:
• Science-based industries in research and development, production, and management.
• Scientific work in government establishments (e.g., QinetiQ or Harwell Laboratories).
• Hospital physics in the NHS.
• Technical management in broadcasting and the communications sector.
• High-tech start-up companies.
• Opportunities:
• The broad-based skills acquired during the degree provide a strong foundation for a wide variety of careers, not only those related to Physics but also in wider fields.
• Outcomes:
• Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as:
• Academic Researcher
• Actuary
• Astronomer
• Chartered and Certified Accountant
• Cyber Security Professional
• Engineer
• Financial Accounts Manager
• IT Business Analyst and Systems Architect
• Programmer
• Software Developer
• Teacher

Other:

• Facilities: Extensive facilities in a dedicated building, including advanced research and teaching labs, observatory, and computer labs.
• Student Environment: Supportive and inclusive student-staff environment.
• Graduate Outcomes: 94% of graduates in or due to start employment/further study 15 months after graduation (based on full-time, first degree, UK-domiciled graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes survey 2020/21).
• Extended Project Work: Develops research skills, including presenting and scientifically defending work and ideas.
• PhD Studentships: Graduates are encouraged to apply for fully-funded PhD studentships in physics or astrophysics.

UK students: £9,250 per year International students: £29,700 per year