Key Information

Full-time

4-5 years

Part-time

Part-time study is available

Typical Offer

View

School

School of Mathematics and Physics

Campus

Brayford Pool

Validation Status

Validated

Fees

View

UCAS Code

F303

Course Code

PHYPHYUM

MPhys Physics

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Key Information

Full-time

4-5 years

Part-time

Part-time study is available

Typical Offer

View

School

School of Mathematics and Physics

Campus

Brayford Pool

Validation Status

Validated

Fees

View

UCAS Code

F303

Course Code

PHYPHYUM

Dr Matthew Booth - Programme Leader

Dr Matthew Booth - Programme Leader

Dr Matthew Booth is the Programme Leader for Physics in the School of Mathematics and Physics. His research interests are primarily in the synthesis and characterisation of nanomaterials.

Academic Staff List

Welcome to MPhys Physics

Physics is a fundamental science which underpins our understanding of the world around us, from distant galaxies to the smallest particles. The knowledge and problem-solving skills of physicists are vital to new discoveries and advances in science and technology.

This course offers the opportunity to study a combination of fundamental and applied physics alongside rigorous mathematics and computational training. Teaching is informed by research, with the chance for students to work on real-world research projects alongside our academic staff.

The four year MPhys course is designed for those seeking to develop thorough skills as an independent physicist. It features further in-depth study and significant project work. Students may have the opportunity to contribute to researching and writing an academic paper.

How You Study

This programme combines theory with practical laboratory work and substantial research training. Throughout the course there are extensive opportunities for students to hone practical skills in preparation for a career in a variety of sectors.

The programme includes a combination of compulsory and elective modules covering all components of core physics, as defined by the UK Institute of Physics (IOP).

In the first year students have the chance to benefit from an additional three hours per week of problem solving tutorials. In addition, the School of Mathematics and Physics runs a tutor system for first year students, providing one hour weekly tutor sessions in small groups.

Students on this MPhys programme will continue to study for a fourth year at an advanced level where they can examine topics in greater depth and undertake substantial additional project work

The course is taught through lectures, problem-solving classes, computer-based classes, and seminars.

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. To help you choose the course that’s right for you, we aim to bring to your attention all the important information you may need. Our What You Need to Know page offers detailed information on key areas including contact hours, assessment, optional modules, and additional costs.

Find out More

An Introduction to Your Modules

† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Calculus 2022-23MTH1002MLevel 42022-23This module focuses on the concepts of the derivative and the Riemann integral, which are indispensable in modern sciences. Two approaches are used: both intuitive-geometric, and mathematically rigorous, based on the definition of continuous limits. Important results are the Mean Value Theorem, leading to the representation of some functions as power series (the Taylor series), and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus which establishes the relationship between differentiation and integration. Further calculus tools are explored, such as the general properties of the derivative and the Riemann integral, as well as the techniques of integration. In this module, students may deal with many "popular" functions used throughout mathematics.CoreComputer Algebra and Technical Computing 2022-23MTH1006MLevel 42022-23This module presents an introduction to computer packages for analytic formulas manipulation (computer algebra) and technical computing. Students will also have the opportunity to develop skills including; utilising a logbook as a factual record and as reflective self-assessment to support their learning.CoreElectricity, Magnetism, Thermal and Quantum Physics 2022-23PHY1003MLevel 42022-23This module covers basic notions of modern physics. In electricity and magnetism these include Coulombs law, electrostatic vector and potential fields, magnetic fields, motion of charges and currents in electromagnetic fields, and the basics of electric circuits. In thermal physics these include the zeroth, and first and second laws of thermodynamics applied to different model situations. The quantum physics part introduces notions such as wave-particle duality, the concept of a wavefunction, energy quantization, and simple models of the atom.CoreGeometrical Optics, Waves and Mechanics 2022-23PHY1002MLevel 42022-23 This module introduces established theories describing optical, acoustic, and mechanical phenomena. The optics part includes Fermats principle of light propagation, Snells laws of reflection and refraction, thin lenses and Huygenss principle. The mechanics part includes the basic mathematical tools used to describe the motion of objects (kinematics) and the laws of Newton (dynamics) underpinning these observed motions. The wave part of the module includes a discussion of propagating waves, the Doppler effect, phase and group velocities and standing waves.CoreLaboratory 1 2022-23PHY1004MLevel 42022-23This module will provide students with the opportunity to learn practical skills needed for physical laboratory experiments. The module provides a structured introduction to laboratory skills development with particular emphasis on measurement uncertainty. This module explores measurement and estimation followed by techniques in data analysis and presentation of data. Students will also have the opportunity to develop practical skills in a set of experiments which examples may include: basic electronic circuits, pendulum, Hooke's law, heat capacity, lenses.CoreLinear Algebra 2022-23MTH1004MLevel 42022-23This module describes vector spaces and matrices. Matrices are regarded as representations of linear mappings between vector spaces. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors are introduced, which lead to diagonalisation and reduction to other canonical forms. Special types of mappings and matrices (orthogonal, symmetric) are also introduced.CoreProbability and Statistics 2022-23MTH1005MLevel 42022-23This module begins with an introduction of a probability space, which models the possible outcomes of a random experiment. Basic concepts such as statistical independence and conditional probability are introduced, with various practical examples used as illustrations. Random variables are introduced, and certain well-known probability distributions are explored. Further study includes discrete distributions, independence of random variables, mathematical expectation, random vectors, covariance and correlation, conditional distributions and the law of total expectation. The ideas developed for discrete distributions are applied to continuous distributions. Probability theory is a basis of mathematical statistics, which has so many important applications in science, industry, government and commerce. Students will have the opportunity to gain a basic understanding of statistics and its tools. It is important that these tools are used correctly when, for example, the full picture of a problem (population) must be inferred from collected data (random sample).CoreProfessional Skills and Group Study 2022-23MTH1007MLevel 42022-23This module provides students the opportunity to learn a variety of transferable skills: to communicate scientific ideas via a variety of media, to work in groups, to manage and plan projects, to keep record of work. Students have the opportunity to develop an understanding of general and specialized databases, their uses and searches. Group study can develop Students' skills in team-working around investigating a topic from literature. Students have the opportunity to take on administrative roles within the team and work towards common aims and objectives.CoreCondensed Matter Physics 2023-24PHY2001MLevel 52023-24In contemporary research, condensed matter physics pertains to the physics of condensed phases of matter such as solid and liquids. Depending on the properties of interest, condensed matter physics is traditionally split into two different sub-fields: solid state physics dealing primarily with the behavior of electrons in periodic solids, and soft-matter physics dealing with the properties of assemblies of atoms in a somewhat confined space. This module introduces the basic ideas of these two worlds from Drudes model and the band theory of electrical conductivity in solids to the physics of colloidal and polymeric systems.CoreDifferential Equations 2023-24MTH2004MLevel 52023-24Calculus techniques already provide solutions of simple first-order differential equations. Solution of second-order differential equations can sometimes be achieved by certain manipulations. Students may learn about existence and geometric interpretations of solutions, even when calculus techniques do not yield solutions in a simple form. This is a part of the existence theory of ordinary differential equations and leads to fundamental techniques of the asymptotic and qualitative study of their solutions, including the important question of stability. Fourier series and Fourier transform are introduced. This module provides an introduction to the classical second-order linear partial differential equations and techniques for their solution. The basic concepts and methods are introduced for typical partial differential equations representing the three classes: parabolic, elliptic, and hyperbolic.CoreElectrodynamics 2023-24PHY2002MLevel 52023-24This module covers the first established classical theory of fields, namely the theory of electromagnetic fields. After introducing the necessary mathematical tools such as curl, divergence, and gradient, the module discusses the macroscopic and microscopic Maxwells equations of electromagnetism as well as their solutions for some model problems in vacuum and in some materials. Topics covered include Gausss law, Maxwells law of induction, Faradays law, time-dependent electromagnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and dielectric and magnetic materials.CoreGroup Project 2023-24MTH2005MLevel 52023-24This module aims to provide students with the experience of working as part of a team on a project. Students will have the opportunity to produce a set of deliverables relevant to their programme of study. Final deliverables will be negotiated between the group and their supervisor, the module coordinator will be responsible for ensuring that each project covers the learning outcomes of the module. Groups are expected to manage their own processes, and to hold regular meetings both with and without their supervisor. Groups will be allocated by the module coordinator and other members of staff. The process of development of the topic under study and the interaction and management of group members underpins the assessment of skills in the module.CoreIndustrial and Econo-Physics 2023-24PHY2003MLevel 52023-24This module describes how modern physics is used in everyday industrial practice. Examples used in this module will be aligned with the interests of the university's industrial partners and collaborators. The module also introduces how theoretical apparatus developed initially in physics finds its application in the field of economy.CoreLaboratory 2 2023-24PHY2004MLevel 52023-24This module builds on level 1 Laboratory 1 module. It provides students with a broad experience in mastering a range of more complex experimental techniques and offers the opportunity to develop skills in data collection and analysis.CoreLagrangian and Hamiltonian Mechanics 2023-24MTH2007MLevel 52023-24This module is concerned with a modern formulation of mechanics called Lagrangian mechanics in which the actually observed motion of an object is viewed as one among many potentially conceivable motions. The selection process of the actual motion satisfies the so-called Principle of Minimum Action. The corresponding formalism allows us to tackle very intricate mechanical problems and has many technical advantages with regards to changes of variables. A dual theory called Hamiltonian mechanics is also introduced and has its own advantages for addressing problems in mechanics. These two theories constitute the foundation on which quantum mechanics, statistical, and quantum field theories are based. The module delivery includes the Minimum Action Principle, Euler-Lagrange equations, Noethers theorem, Hamiltons equations, and Poisson brackets.CoreScientific Computing 2023-24MTH2008MLevel 52023-24Students will have the opportunity to utilise computers for the numerical solution and simulation of models of physical and mathematical systems, including the use of computer procedural programming languages to solve computational problems. Numerical algorithms will be introduced to exemplify key concepts in computational programming, with the emphasis on understanding the nature of the algorithm and the features and limitations of its computational implementation. In creating programs, the emphasis will be on using effective programming techniques and on efficient debugging, testing and validation methods. Students may also develop skills at using a logbook as a factual record and as reflective self-assessment to support their learning.CoreAdvanced Topics of Physics and Physics Seminar 2024-25PHY3001MLevel 62024-25The module will cover several advanced topics of modern physics. The choice of the topics will be governed by the current research interests of academic staff and/or visiting scientists. Students may also participate in physics research seminars.CoreNumerical Methods 2024-25MTH3007MLevel 62024-25The module aims to equip students with knowledge of various numerical methods for solving applied mathematics problems, their algorithms and implementation in programming languages.CorePhysics of the Universe 2024-25PHY3006MLevel 62024-25This module covers the physics of astronomical, astrophysical, and cosmological phenomena. Topics covered include distance measures in the universe, planetary formation, stellar physics, and some elements of cosmology.CorePhysics Project 2024-25PHY3007MLevel 62024-25In this module the students have the opportunity to conduct modern physics research in a research group of the school, university or an external collaborating establishment.CoreQuantum Mechanics 2024-25PHY3004MLevel 62024-25This module covers the formalism of quantum mechanics, which underpins a substantial part of our current understanding of the microscopic world. Topics covered include commutators, operators and observables, Shrodingers equation, Born rule, spin, Hydrogen atom, time-independent perturbation theory, time-dependent perturbation theory, and identical particles.CoreStatistical Mechanics 2024-25PHY3005MLevel 62024-25This module is concerned with bridging a microscopic description of the world (via classical or quantum Hamiltonian mechanics) with a macroscopic description of the world (via thermodynamics). This is done by considering a probability measure on the space of possible mechanical (micro)states of a system. Topics covered include basics of probability theory, notions of statistical equilibrium, statistical ensembles (canonical and microcanonical) applied to model systems, thermodynamic potentials and partition functions, and the statistical mechanics of identical particles.CoreFluid Dynamics 2024-25MTH3002MLevel 62024-25This module gives a mathematical foundation of ideal and viscous fluid dynamics and their application to describing various flows in nature and technology. Students are taught methods of analysing and solving equations of fluid dynamics using analytic and most modern computational tools.OptionalMethods of Mathematical Physics 2024-25MTH3006MLevel 62024-25The module aims to equip students with methods to analyse and solve various mathematical equations found in physics and technology.OptionalPhysics Pedagogy 2024-25PHY3002MLevel 62024-25This module is designed to provide students with an insight into the teaching of science at secondary school level and does this by combining university lectures with an experience of a placement in a secondary school science department. The module is particularly aimed at those considering a career in science teaching and provides students with an opportunity to engage with cutting edge science education research and will examine how this research impacts directly on classroom practice. Students will have the opportunity to gain an insight into some of the key ideas in science pedagogy and how these are implemented in the school science lessons and will develop an understanding about the barriers to learning science that many students experience.OptionalFinancial Kinetics 2025-26MTH9001MLevel 72025-26This module brings together the main ideas and methods of the mathematical theory of financial markets. In addition, the methods of practical calculations of volatilities of traded assets from historical data are discussed. The influence of randomness of the interest rate and volatilities on price of options is studied.CoreMolecular Modelling 2025-26PHY9002MLevel 72025-26This module introduces modern computational techniques for molecular modelling in condensed matter physics.CoreNano-Physics 2025-26PHY9003MLevel 72025-26This module covers several sub-disciplines of nano-physics from solid state physics till soft matter physics and their interface. Students have the opportunity to gain insights into theoretical and experimental aspects of nano-physics, one of most rapidly developing field of modern physics.CorePhysics Masters Project 2025-26PHY9004MLevel 72025-26In this module, students have the opportunity to undertake a substantial project under the supervision of a research-active member of staff. Projects can be undertaken at an external collaborating establishment. Students are expected to conduct independent research in modern physics, working in a research group of the school, the university or in an external collaborating establishment.CoreAdvanced Instrumentation 2025-26PHY9001MLevel 72025-26The aim of this module is to enhance students experimental skills with a range of advanced experimental problems. The module may be conducted at university laboratory facilities or at an external collaborating establishment.OptionalTheoretical Physics Laboratory 2025-26PHY9005MLevel 72025-26The aim of this module is to enhance students theoretical skills with a range of advanced theoretical physics problems.Optional

Features

Research Informed

Research is a critical part of the academic environment at the University of Lincoln, and as one of our students you can expect to be taught by research academics in the field. Under our “student as producer” initiative you will be expected to contribute to new knowledge yourself. Research will form a part of your study from your first year in a variety of ways such as individual and team projects, and will culminate in the final year project.

Teaching on this course is conducted by academic members of staff who are active researchers in their fields. This research informs teaching at all levels of the programme. Staff conduct cutting-edge research in fundamental and applied mathematics and physics, ranging from pure mathematics to applied nano-science at the interface between biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. The School collaborates with top research institutions in Germany, Japan, Norway, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, and the USA.

Visiting Speakers

The School of Mathematics and Physics regularly welcomes guest speakers from around the world. Recent visitors to the University of Lincoln have included former vice president of the Royal Astronomical Society Professor Don Kurtz, mathematician and author Professor Marcus du Sautoy OBE, and operations research specialist Ruth Kaufman OBE.

Placements

Students on this course are encouraged to obtain and undertake work placements independently in the UK or overseas during their studies, providing hands-on experience in industry. These can range from a few weeks to a full year if students choose the sandwich year option. Placements may be conducted with external research institutions (which can be overseas). The option is subject to availability and selection criteria set by the industry or external institution. When undertaking optional placements, students will be required to cover their transport, accommodation, and general living costs.

Fees and Scholarships

Going to university is a life-changing step and it's important to understand the costs involved and the funding options available before you start. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found on our course fees pages.

Course Fees

For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.

Entry Requirements 2022-23

United Kingdom

A Level: ABB to include a grade B from A Level Maths and Physics (128 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 3 A Levels or equivalent qualifications).

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 128 UCAS Tariff points, including 40 points from 15 credits in Maths and 15 credits in Physics.

International Baccalaureate: 32 points overall, with Higher Level Grade 5 in Maths and Physics.

BTEC qualifications may be considered with a grade B in A Level Maths and Physics. Please contact our Admissions team for further information (admissions@lincoln.ac.uk).

A combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTEC, EPQ, etc.

Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English and Maths. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry. We will also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.

International

Non UK Qualifications:

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.

For applicants who do not meet our standard entry requirements, our Science Foundation Year can provide an alternative route of entry onto our full degree programmes:https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/course/sfysfyub/lifesciences/

If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk

“I thoroughly enjoyed my studies at the University, mainly due to the ever-patient staff and academics who were there every step of the way, no matter how small the problem.”

Sorcha Hulme, BSc (Hons) Physics graduate

Career Opportunities

Physics graduates are well-placed for careers in research and development, process control, and regulatory roles in organisations around the world. Some may go on to roles in education or further study at postgraduate level. Additionally, transferable skills such as communications, problem-solving, and decision-making, which students are expected to develop throughout their studies, are valuable in many spheres of employment.

Visit Us in Person

The best way to find out what it is really like to live and learn at Lincoln is to join us for one of our Open Days. Discover our Isaac Newton Building, equipped with laboratories and workshops, as well as specialist robotics facilities and advanced research equipment.

Book Your Place

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Prioritising Face-to-Face Teaching

At Lincoln, we strive to make sure our student experience is engaging, supportive, and academically challenging. That is why, in response to the issues presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, we have been prioritising face-to-face teaching sessions for our new and returning students in areas where they are the most valuable, such as seminars, tutorials, workshops, and lab and practical sessions. Additional online opportunities have been introduced where they support learning and have been shown to be successful and popular with our current students.

Safety remains a key focus. We are fully prepared to adapt our plans if changes in Government guidance makes this necessary, and we will endeavour to keep current and prospective students informed. For more information about how we are working to keep our community safe, please visit our coronavirus web pages.

The University intends to provide its courses as outlined in these pages, although the University may make changes in accordance with the Student Admissions Terms and Conditions.