Physics / Theoretical Physics (faster route)
Entry requirements
A level: (Three A-levels at Grades A*AA which include Physics and Mathematics attained in one exam year and at the first attempt.) IB: (38 points with three Higher Level subjects at 6,6,6 including Physics and Mathematics.) Scottish Higher: AAABB is the minimum requirement from S5 to be reviewed for an S6 offer Advanced Highers – AAA including Physics and Mathematics attained in one exam year and at the first attempt. Applicants must also meet the standard offer threshold (see Physics / Theoretical Physics ) with S5 grades to be considered for faster route.
About this course
BSc/MSci in Physics / Theoretical Physics (faster route), a Physics / Theoretical Physics (faster route) degree covering advanced analytical and mathematical concepts. Core topics include Programming, Microelectronics, Data Analysis, Statistics, and Mathematical Modelling. High-achieving candidates joining straight from school have the option to complete the honours degree in three years or the MSci degree in four years. The second year covers foundational material through Mathematics 2A: Multivariable Calculus, Mathematics 2B: Linear Algebra, Physics 2, and Physics 2T: Programming Under Linux. The third year advances into core areas with Quantum Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Electromagnetic Theory 1, and Analytical Mechanics, alongside collaborative work via the Physics Group Project and Theoretical Physics Group Project. The fourth year introduces specialized compulsory study in Solid State Physics, Atomic Systems, Mathematical Methods 2, Quantum Theory, and General Physics Workshop, culminating in either a Physics Project or Physics Literature Project. Optional modules in later stages allow specialisation in subjects such as Particle Physics, Nuclear Physics, Semiconductor Physics, and Cosmology. For students proceeding to the fifth year of the MSci, the curriculum centers on the Physics M Project and a Problem Solving Workshop.
Modules
- Physics skills for faster route
- Physics 2
- Physics 2T: Programming Under Linux
- Mathematics 2A: Multivariable Calculus
- Mathematics 2B: Linear Algebra
- Mathematics 2D: Mathematical Methods and Modelling
- 20 credits of electives from Level 1 or 2 courses
- Mathematical Methods 1
- Waves & Diffraction
- Quantum Mechanics
- Thermal Physics
- Electromagnetic Theory 1
- Circuits & Systems (Physics only)
- Honours Physics Laboratory
- Honours Computational Physics Laboratory
- Numerical Methods (Theoretical Physics only)
- Analytical Mechanics
- Physics Group Project
- Theoretical Physics Group Project
- Lasers & Non-Linear Optics
- Medical Imaging
- [[[PHYS4017]]]
- Solid State Physics
- Atomic Systems
- Mathematical Methods 2
- Quantum Theory
- General Physics Workshop
- Physics Project
- Physics Literature Project
- Honours Computational Physics Laboratory
- Lasers & Non-Linear Optics
- Medical Imaging
- [[[PHYS4017]]]
- Particle Physics
- Nuclear Physics
- Semiconductor Physics
- Magnetism & Superconductivity
- Electronic Signals Transmission
- Relativistic Quantum Fields
- Statistical Mechanics
- Imaging and Detectors
- Energy And Environment
- Physics Education And Communication In Schools
- Groups And Symmetries
- Quantum and Atom Optics
- Peer to Peer Teaching and Learning in Physics
- Detection and Analysis of Ionising Radiation
- Nuclear Power Reactors
- Environmental Radioactivity
- Quantum Information
- Analytical Mechanics
- Stellar Structure and Evolution
- High Energy Astrophysics
- Galaxies
- Heliophysics and Stellar Atmospheres
- Instruments for Optical and Radio Astronomy
- Cosmology
- Astronomical Data Analysis
- Exploring Planetary Systems
- Physics M Project
- Problem Solving Workshop