Masters in Physics
If you’re interested in studying the world on a quantum level and basically being the next Einstein, a Masters degree in Physics gives you the opportunity to further sharpen your knowledge and understanding of physics. The degree also acts as an important stepping stone on the path to working in the field of physics.
Studying Physics
Physics is the branch of science focusing on the study of energy and matter and the interactions between the two, and the emerging questions that are answered by experiments and observations. Physicists tend to focus their attention on large areas of study such as the way in which the universe began, or how the sun keeps on shining. Physics is also used in everyday life within cancer treatment, developing computer games and manufacturing sports equipment.If you want to study a physics degree you’ll need to decide on a university, check the entry requirements and find out what you’ll be studying. That’s where we can help...Different types of physics degrees
A physics degree can be studied at the undergraduate level and is awarded as a Bachelor of Science (BSc). With over 600 different courses available in the UK there are many universities offering specialised physics courses such as astrophysics. Physics degrees are also commonly offered with other subjects including:What modules will I study?
When studying a physics degree you will be required to take a range of core modules with optional modules in your second and third year of study, allowing you to specialise in your preferred area of study. Some examples of modules on offer at selected universities include:- Mechanics
- The Solar System
- The Galaxy and Cosmology
- Thermal Physics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Electromagnetism
- Mathematics for Physics
- Temperature and Matter
- Electric Circuits
- Statistical Physics
- Medical Imaging
- Fission and Fusion
Postgraduate
Topics Covered
The exact topics covered in a Masters in Physics program will vary according to each university and the program they offer. Generally, the twelve months are divided between compulsory modules and optional modules. Modules you can expect to study include:
- Mathematical Techniques
- Advanced Classical Physics
- Advanced Quantum Theory
- Particle Physics
- Molecular Physics
- Climate and Energy
As well as the modules, it is likely that you will also have to work on a literature survey, which is generally worth 30 credits. The survey must tie into your research project, which you will work on independently, and which is usually worth 60 of the total credits. This research project will include an oral presentation, as well as a final dissertation.
Entry Requirements
There are 63 universities in the UK that offer physics degrees and depending on the university you are applying to the entry requirements may vary. However, typically you will be required to achieve the following A Level Grades and UCAS Points:
- A Level Grades: A*AA - AAB
- UCAS Points: 152 - 136
Required and Desired A Level Subjects: Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics
Postgraduate
To be accepted onto a Masters in physics program, an Upper second class Bachelor's degree is usually requisite. This degree should be in physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science, chemistry, or any other related subject.
Some postgraduate degrees in Physics may require students to attend an entrance interview. To help you understand postgraduate interviews we have put together an article for the top 10 questions that are likely to pop up and the best ways that you can answer them: Top 10 Postgraduate Interview Questions.
Career Prospects
The great thing about studying this degree is that you aren’t limited in what you can do upon graduation. The degree arms you with in-demand skills that are useful in a variety of sectors, such as problem solving skills, numeracy skills and data analysis skills.
A number of graduates opt for research roles in industries such as education, aerospace, automotive, healthcare, IT, energy and the public sector. Although you start out as a trainee in a scientific research role with an undergraduate degree, a Masters fast-tracks you into a more a senior research role.
A Master's degree in Physics could even take you to the final frontier, with a career in astronomy certainly not beyond you. Roles in the space sector are hugely sought after, but a Masters can certainly strengthen your chances of landing a trainee role in the space sector.
Other sectors open to you include the engineering sector and the technology sector, where you could develop new products and ideas.
