Physics (Euromasters)

Course Structure

1. Space Astronomy and Solar System Science
2. Cosmology and Interstellar Medium
3. Particle and Quantum Physics
4. Research Review
5. Magnetism and Superconductivity
6. Physical Science Research Planning
7. Topics in Functional Materials
8. Rocketry and Human Spaceflight
9. Euromasters Project
10. develop an integrated and critically aware understanding of physics to prepare you to undertake a PhD in the subdisciplines of astrophysics or condensed matter physics anywhere in Europe
11. enhance your employment opportunities and career prospects in physics/astrophysics
12. develop a variety of Master’s level intellectual and transferable skills
13. equip you with the learning skills to keep abreast of developments in the continually evolving fields of astrophysics or condensed matter physics
14. instil in you a sense of enthusiasm for physics by underlining the role of the discipline at the core of our understanding of all physical phenomena and as the foundation of many of the pure and applied sciences
15. involve you in the intellectually stimulating and satisfying experience of learning within a research-led environment
16. enable you to undertake and report on an experimental, computational or theoretical investigation based on an extended project in physics or astrophysics
17. enable you to realise your academic potential
18. enhance your appreciation of the applications of physics in different contexts including an appreciation of the importance of physics in industrial, economic, environmental and social contexts
19. aspects of the theory and practice of condensed matter physics or astrophysics, and of those aspects upon which it depends: a knowledge of key physics, the use of electronic data processing and analysis, and modern day mathematical and computational tools
20. the most fundamental laws and principles of physics and of astrophysics, along with their application to a variety of areas in physics and/or astrophysics, some of which are at (or are informed by) the forefront of the discipline.
21. the ability to identify relevant principles and laws when dealing with problems, and to make approximations necessary to obtain solutions
22. the ability to solve problems in physics using appropriate mathematical tools
23. the ability to execute and analyse critically the results of an experiment or investigation and draw valid conclusions. To evaluate the level of uncertainty in these results and compare them with expected outcomes, theoretical predictions or with published data; thereby to evaluate the significance of their results in this context
24. the ability to use mathematical techniques and analysis to model physical behaviour
25. the ability to comment critically on specialised equipment and techniques, and their use in condensed matter, space science or astrophysics research
26. the ability to solve advanced problems in physics using appropriate mathematical tools, to translate problems into mathematical statements and to obtain order of magnitude or more precise solutions as appropriate
27. the ability to interpret mathematical descriptions of physical phenomena
28. the ability to plan an experiment or investigation under supervision and to understand the significance of error analysis
29. a variety of experimental, mathematical and/or computational techniques applicable to current research within physics
30. the ability to work within in the condensed matter or astrophysics area that is well-matched to the frontiers of knowledge, the science drivers that underpin government-funded research and the commercial activity that provides hardware or software solutions to challenging scientific problems in these fields.
31. the competent use of appropriate C&IT packages/systems for the analysis of data and the retrieval of appropriate and useful information
32. the ability to present and interpret information graphically
33. the ability to communicate scientific information, in particular to produce clear and accurate scientific reports
34. familiarity with laboratory apparatus and techniques, including relevant aspects of health and safety
35. the systematic and reliable recording of experimental data
36. an ability to make use of appropriate texts, research-based materials or other learning resources as part of managing your own learning
37. C&IT skills that show fluency at the level and range needed for project work, such as familiarity with a programming language, simulation software or the use of mathematical packages for manipulation and numerical solution of equations
38. the ability to communicate complex scientific ideas, the conclusion of an experiment, investigation or project concisely, and to do so accurately and informatively
39. an ability to make use of research articles and other primary sources
40. the competent use of specialised equipment, the ability to identify appropriate pieces of equipment and to master new techniques and equipment.
41. problem-solving skills, in the context of both problems with well-defined solutions and open-ended problems, an ability to formulate problems in precise terms and to identify key issues, and the confidence to try different approaches in order to make progress on challenging problems. Numeracy is subsumed within this area
42. investigative skills in the context of independent investigation including the use of textbooks and other available literature, databases, and the interaction with colleagues to extract important information
43. communication skills in the area of dealing with surprising ideas and difficult concepts, including listening carefully, reading demanding texts and presenting complex information in a clear and concise manner. C&IT skills are an important element of this
44. analytical skills: associated with the need to pay attention to detail and to develop an ability to manipulate precise and intricate ideas, to construct logical arguments and to use technical language correctly
45. personal skills: the ability to work independently, to use initiative, to organise yourself to meet deadlines and to interact constructively with other people.