Master in Physics and Astronomy
Master
Presential
**Course details**
If you are fascinated by the relationship between mathematics, the cosmos and the scientific world this MPhys could be for you. This integrated Master's degree is the first step towards Chartered Physicist status. It will suit those looking for an accredited course that leads to higher level education or a research role in physics, while also providing the knowledge, analytical and problem-solving skills for a career in the sciences, engineering, finance or IT.
Physics degrees at Durham offer a high level of flexibility. We offer four Institute of Physics accredited courses - MPhys qualifications in Physics, Physics and Astronomy, and Theoretical Physics and the three-year BSc in Physics - which follow the same core curriculum in Year 1.
Subject to the optional modules chosen, it is possible to switch to one of the other courses until the end of the second year. You can also apply for a one-year work placement or study abroad opportunity with one of our partner organisations, increasing the course from four years to five or substituting the existing Year 3.
The first year lays the foundation in physics theory, mathematical skills and laboratory skills that you will need to tackle more complex content later in the course. From Year 2 the focus on astronomy and astrophysics increases.
As you progress through the course, learning is more closely aligned to real-world issues through project work and optional modules that are tailored to your interests and aspirations. Your knowledge is further extended with a project based on a live research topic, and higher-level modules which take your study of physics and astronomy to a greater depth.
**Course structure**
*Year 1*
Core modules:
Foundations of Physics introduces classical aspects of wave phenomena and electromagnetism, as well as basic concepts in Newtonian mechanics, quantum mechanics, special relativity and optical physics.
Discovery Skills in Physics provides a practical introduction to laboratory skills development with particular emphasis on measurement uncertainty, data analysis and written and oral communication skills. It also includes an introduction to programming.
Examples of optional modules:
Single Mathematics
Linear Algebra
Calculus.
*Year 2*
Core modules:
Foundations of Physics A develops your knowledge of quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. You will learn to apply the principles of physics to predictable and unpredictable problems and produce a well-structured solution, with clear reasoning and appropriate presentation.
Foundations of Physics B extends your knowledge of thermodynamics, condensed matter physics and optics.
Stars and Galaxies introduces astronomy and astrophysics. You will develop an understanding of the basic physics of stellar interiors and learn why we see stars of differing colours and brightness. The module extends your knowledge of pulsating and binary stars and introduces galactic and extragalactic astronomy.
Mathematical Methods in Physics provides the necessary mathematical knowledge to successfully tackle the Foundations of Physics modules. It covers vectors, vector integral and vector differential calculus, multivariable calculus and orthogonal curvilinear coordinates, Fourier analysis, orthogonal functions, the use of matrices, and the mathematical tools for solving ordinary and partial differential equations occurring in a variety of physical problems.
Laboratory Skills and Electronics builds lab-based skills, such as experiment planning, data analysis, scientific communication and specific practical skills. It aims to teach electronics as a theoretical and a practical subject, to teach the techniques of computational physics and numerical methods and to provide experience of a research-led investigation in physics in preparation for post-university life.
Examples of optional modules:
Theoretical Physics
Physics in Society.
*Year 3*
Core modules:
Foundations of Physics A further develops your knowledge to include quantum mechanics and nuclear and particle physics. You will learn to apply the principles of physics to complex problems and produce a well-structured solution, with clear reasoning and appropriate presentation.
Foundations of Physics B extends your knowledge to include statistical physics and condensed matter physics.
Planets and Cosmology explains the astrophysical origin of planetary systems and the cosmological origin of the Universe. You will learn about the formation and workings of our Solar System, its orbital dynamics and the basic physics of planetary interiors and atmospheres.
The Computing Project is designed to develop your computational and problem-solving skills. You work on advanced computational physics problems using a variety of modern computing techniques and present your findings in a project report, poster and oral presentation.
Examples of optional modules:
Team Project
Advanced Laboratory
Mathematics Workshop
Physics into Schools
Theoretical Physics
Condensed Matter Physics
Modern Atomic and Optical Physics.
*Year 4*
Core modules:
The research-based MPhys Project provides experience of work in a research environment on a topic at the forefront of developments in a branch of either physics, applied physics, theoretical physics or astronomy, and develops transferable skills for the oral and written presentation of research. The project can be carried out individually or as part of a small group in one of the Department's research groups or in collaboration with an external organisation.
Advanced Astrophysics covers astronomical techniques and radiative processes in astrophysics. This module provides a working knowledge of the advanced optical techniques used in modern astronomy and of the radiative processes that generate the emission that is studied in a wide range of astronomical observations.
Theoretical Astrophysics examines cosmic structure formation and general relativity. This module provides an overview of our current understanding of the formation and evolution of cosmic structure and an introduction to Einstein's general theory of relativity.
Examples of optional modules:
Atoms, Lasers and Qubits
Advanced Theoretical Physics
Advanced Condensed Matter Physics
Particle Theory
Theoretical Physics
Condensed Matter Physics
Modern Atomic and Optical Physics.
Additional pathways
Students on the MPhys in Physics and Astronomy can apply to be transferred onto either the 'with Year Abroad' or 'with Placement' pathway during the second year. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen you can choose to extend your course from four years to five, or substitute the existing Year 3.
**Placement**
You may be able to take a work placement. Find out more in https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/how-to-apply/study-options/placements/.
Modules details: https://apps.dur.ac.uk/faculty.handbook/2023/UG/programme/FF3N
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Recommended
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**Career opportunities**
*Physics*
We seek to develop the practical and intellectual skills sought by employers and we are regularly ranked among the country's top performers for graduate employment. Our graduates have progressed to careers in business, industry, commerce, research, management and education, and typically more than fifth of our graduates go on to study for higher degrees.
The Department also has an impressive track record of spin-out technology companies that commercialise our knowledge in areas of semiconductors, composites and advanced instrumentation. Examples of high-profile employers include BT, Procter & Gamble, Rolls Royce and BAE Systems.
Of those students who graduated in 2019:
83% are in paid employment or further study 15 months after graduation across all our programmes
Of those in employment:
81% are in high skilled employment
With an average salary of £34,000.
(Source: HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey. The survey asks leavers from higher education what they are doing 15 months after graduation. Further information about the Graduate Outcomes survey can be found here www.graduateoutcomes.ac.uk)
Master in Physics and Astronomy
Downstream
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or HaDEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. The statements made herein do not necessarily have the consent or agreement of the ASTRAIOS Consortium. These represent the opinion and findings of the author(s).
