Mathematics / Physics BSc

Program Overview

The Mathematics and Physics degree at Aberystwyth University provides a comprehensive foundation in both disciplines. The program emphasizes a balanced exploration of mathematical principles and physical concepts, equipping students with strong problem-solving, numerical, and analytical skills. Graduates are highly sought after in various industries, including engineering, finance, and scientific research. The program also nurtures transferable skills such as communication, collaboration, and research proficiency.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Mathematics and Physics degree at Aberystwyth University offers a structured exploration of two closely related disciplines. The program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in both mathematics and physics, equipping them with the necessary mathematical and numerical skills to understand physical concepts and natural phenomena. Graduates of this program are highly sought after in various industries, including engineering, technology, and finance.

Outline:

The program is structured over three years, with a balanced allocation of time between mathematics and physics. The Department of Mathematics has a strong research reputation, recognized as one of the best in Wales. The Departments of Mathematics and Physics are leaders in Welsh-medium provision for these subjects in Wales.

Year 1:

• Core Modules:
• Dynamics, Waves and Heat (PH10020, 20 credits)
• Electricity, Magnetism and Matter (PH11120, 20 credits)
• Laboratory Techniques for Experimental Physics (PH15510, 10 credits)
• Modern Physics (PH14310, 10 credits)
• Algebra (MA10510, 10 credits)
• Calculus (MP10610, 10 credits)
• Further Algebra and Calculus (MP11010, 10 credits)
• Mathematical Analysis (MA11110, 10 credits)
• Optional Modules:
• Coordinate and Vector Geometry (MA10110, 10 credits)
• Differential Equations (MA11210, 10 credits)
• Probability (MA10310, 10 credits)
• Statistics (MA11310, 10 credits)

Year 2:

• Core Modules:
• Complex Analysis (MA21510, 10 credits)
• Linear Algebra (MA21410, 10 credits)
• Electricity and Magnetism (PH22510, 10 credits)
• Mathematical Physics (PM26020, 20 credits)
• Optics (PH22010, 10 credits)
• Principles of Quantum Mechanics (PH23010, 10 credits)
• Thermodynamics (PH21510, 10 credits)
• Optional Modules:
• Advanced Dynamics (MA25710, 10 credits)
• Applied Statistics (MA26620, 20 credits)
• Distributions and Estimation (MA26010, 10 credits)
• Hydrodynamics 1 (MA25610, 10 credits)
• Introduction to Abstract Algebra (MA20310, 10 credits)
• Introduction to Numerical Analysis and its applications (MA25220, 20 credits)
• Real Analysis (MA20110, 10 credits)

Year 3:

• Core Modules:
• Concepts in Condensed Matter Physics (PH32410, 10 credits)
• Particles, Quanta and Fields (PH33020, 20 credits)
• Practical Research Skills (PH35110, 10 credits)
• Project (PH35620, 20 credits)

Assessment:

The program utilizes a combination of assessment methods, including:

• Coursework
• Continuous assessment
• Presentations
• Lab reports
• Lab diaries
• Data interpretation
• Examinations

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching and learning methods, such as:

• Formal lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Practicals
• Individual and group-based project work
Students are assigned a personal tutor throughout their degree course to provide academic and personal support. The program also offers the opportunity to complete a Personal Development Plan (PDP) to enhance personal, academic, and professional development.

Careers:

Graduates of the Mathematics and Physics program are highly valued by employers for their strong numeracy and problem-solving skills. Potential career paths include:

• Engineering
• Scientific writing and publishing
• Risk analysis
• Operational Research
• Business consultancy
• Medical physics
• Meteorology
• Computing
• Accounting and finance

Other:

The program emphasizes the development of transferable skills, including:

• Research and data analysis skills
• Enhanced mathematical and computational skills
• Effective problem-solving and creative thinking skills
• Thorough grounding in information technology skills
• Ability to work independently
• Time-management and organizational skills
• Self-motivation and self-reliance
• Team-working skills
The department supports students seeking voluntary work, particularly in mathematics teaching. Students can take advantage of various work experience opportunities, such as AberWorks, AberForward, YES, and Go Wales.