The first year lays strong mathematical foundations for future investigations in theoretical physics. We’ll introduce tools such as group theory, which is used to describe fundamental symmetries in nature. In the second year you can master vector calculus, which is used to describe Newtonian cosmology and explain the evidence for dark matter. Real and complex analysis also provides the mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics. A case studies module introduces the powerful Monte Carlo technique which lies at the heart of statistical mechanics and extracting precision results from the Standard Model of particle physics. Our range of final year modules includes classical and quantum mechanics, electrodynamics and special relativity, as well as the essential mathematical language of partial differential equations. You’ll complete a theoretical physics project supported by leading academics from our theoretical physics research group. This degree equips you with high-level skills which employers value. This gives you excellent career prospects as well as the possibility to progress to a research degree.
We are very proud of the support we offer and we place an emphasis on developing your oral and written professional communications skills. This greatly enhances your employability. Our optional placement year is a great way to gain commercial experience and opens doors into good jobs.
PROJECTS
Our degrees feature a variety of final year project modules. Recent project topics include:
- Connections between Complex Analysis and Relativity
- Dimensional Regularisation in Quantum Field Theory
- Exploring Bifurcations in Dynamical Systems
- General Relativity and Gravitational Lensing
- Geometric Phases in Physics
- Modelling the Stock Market Using Statistical Field Theory
- Quantum Entanglement and its Application to Encryption
- Symmetry Groups and the Quark Model
- The Casimir Effect: The Absence of Nothing
- The Interplanetary Superhighway
ASSESSMENT
During this degree we use a variety of assessment methods depending upon the material being taught. This includes both individual and group coursework, in-class tests, computer practicals, projects and reports (including, for example, a first year essay on the social and ethical implications of the mathematics underlying cryptography). Some first year coursework is also designed to get you talking with other students in the course about mathematics.