Physics and astronomy Undergraduate study

Transcription

1 Physics and astronomy Undergraduate study

2 The University is part of the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance which aims to place Scotland at the international forefront of research in physics. Choose Glasgow Introduction The University of Glasgow is rated as one of the top 100 universities in the world (Times Higher Education QS World University Rankings). All of our students study for degrees that are recognised and respected by employers throughout the world, but we can guarantee you will receive a lot more besides. Some of the key benefits of student life at Glasgow are Satisfied students Our students report high levels of satisfaction with their studies. According to the independent National Student Survey, an impressive 90% of the University s final-year students rated themselves as satisfied with their course in 2009, well above the national average of 81%. Flexible course choices We offer more than 900 degree programme combinations and our flexible system allows you to study a broad range of during your time at university and, in many cases, makes it possible to delay choosing specialist until the end of second year. Teaching based on research Glasgow is a research-led university, which means that you will be taught by academics at the forefront of knowledge in their subject areas. A student experience worth having You will take away more than a degree from Glasgow. Over the last 550 years our students have built up a fantastic array of initiatives to keep you engaged, entertained and energised. The result is a student experience to be proud of. We have four award-winning student media teams over 100 clubs and societies two undergraduate student unions sporting facilities for all levels of fitness a study abroad and exchange programme that offers opportunities to study across the world as part of your undergraduate degree. All programmes containing physics are fully accredited by the Institute of Physics. Our campus The University s compact main campus combines grand historical buildings with up-to-the-minute facilities. It s centred on a neogothic building with a spire offering breathtaking views across the city. Come and visit us Open Day In June and September we hold an Open Day to allow you, your family and teachers to visit us on campus and see a little of the city. Open Day allows you to speak to academic staff, find out more about courses, tour the facilities, visit student accommodation and see for yourself what life would be like as a student at Glasgow. If you have a long way to travel you can also stay in one of our student residences. Alternative visiting arrangements Open Day is the best way for you to get a comprehensive picture of what being a student here would be like. However, if for any reason you can t make it on that date, then we will be able to make alternative arrangements. To find out more visit: Applicants Visit Day At Glasgow we go the extra mile. If you receive an offer of a place at Glasgow, we will invite you to visit us before making your final decision. Applicants Visit Day usually takes place in March. Details will be sent to you together with your offer of a place. Where can I find out more? More information on our degrees can be obtained online at Alternatively, you can contact us on +44 (0) or enquiries@physics.gla. ac.uk (general enquiries) or ugadmissions@ physics.gla.ac.uk (undergraduate course queries).

3 Astronomy lectures are complemented by our observatory, planetarium and telescope facilities. The University has close links with the Glasgow Science Centre, home to one of the UK s best planetariums, and Glasgow s Professor of Astronomy, John Brown, is also the Astronomer Royal for Scotland. Physics is the study of the physical properties of the world around us. An understanding of the structure of matter and the forces of nature provides fascinating insights into the world in which we live. Invisible fundamental particles are the ultimate building blocks of nature, and their behaviour determines the properties of nuclei, atoms, molecules and all the larger structures of our material world. Astronomy extends this study beyond the Earth s atmosphere to the solar system, stars, galaxies and, ultimately, to the Universe itself. A myriad of cosmic phenomena from planets and stars to galaxies and black holes owe their origin to the same laws of physics that apply here on Earth. Degree structure What will I study? The University offers a wide selection of BSc and MSci programmes in all branches of physics and astronomy. Many are combined degrees with other, for example, Astronomy and Mathematics. The BSc offers considerable breadth takes four years to complete (three year Designated BSc degrees are also available for those not proceeding to Honours). The MSci pursues a number of topics, including the very latest research breakthroughs, in greater depth is generally more demanding than the corresponding BSc and students entering the third year of the MSci require good passes at Level-2 takes five years to complete, with the option of an accelerated four year variant for extremely able students. The range of single and joint degree courses offered are principally: Single Honours Physics Theoretical Physics Physics with Astrophysics Chemical Physics. Combined Honours Physics and Astronomy Physics and Mathematics Physics and Applied Mathematics Astronomy and Mathematics Astronomy and Applied Mathematics Physics and Computing Science. Flexibility of choice It is not compulsory for you to start your degree at Level-1. In principle, there is the option of direct entry to Level-2 courses for students with very good A-Level or Advanced Higher Physics qualifications. In the first year of an Honours Physics course you will study: Physics Mathematics one other subject chosen from a wide selection, for example, Astronomy, Exploring the Cosmos, Computing Science, Biology or French. The courses are very flexible and it is often possible to change between them after first or second year. For example, a student initially intending to study Astronomy & Mathematics to degree level, but who also studied Physics at Level-1 and Level-2, could change to a degree in: Physics & Astronomy Physics with Astrophysics Physics Theoretical Physics. Exploring the Cosmos We run a very popular Level-1 course Exploring the Cosmos. This covers similar topics to those in the Level-1 Astronomy course, but presented in a less mathematical context. You may wish to consider this course if you have an interest in astronomy, but are not planning to pursue it to degree level. It is also an excellent third subject choice for students intending to study Physics with Astrophysics to degree level. Faster Route programmes These might be of interest to you if you are highly qualified at A-level or Advanced Higher level in relevant ; are motivated and keen to pursue an Engineering/Science degree with maximum concentration on the subject; wish to complete your degree faster than the normal time frame. For further information about entry requirements visit degrees/entryrequirements. Astronomy Astronomy is the study of the physical universe, from the Earth and the solar system to galaxies at the edge of the cosmos. Astronomers observe the universe across the entire electromagnetic spectrum modelling objects (such as pulsars and quasars) interpreting these observations in terms of the known laws of physics. What can I expect in first year? In first year (Level-1) you will: survey the observable universe on all scales from planets through stars and galaxies to cosmology gain a basic understanding of the core theoretical and observational principles of modern astronomy. Courses you will typically study are: Dynamical and positional astronomy Observational astronomy The solar system The stars Compact objects Galaxies Quasars Cosmology. What can I expect in second year? In second year (Level-2) you will: study key aspects of astronomy and astrophysics in greater depth undergo further training in the use of optical and radio telescopes. Typical courses include: Theoretical astrophysics Observational astrophysics Stars and their spectra Relativity and cosmology. If you progess to Honours you will: study in greater depth courses which span the entire cosmos from planetary systems to cosmology and general relativity study in detail modern observational methods

4 My course has amazing teaching, fantastic facilities and the experience is one I am never going to forget as the people are so inviting and helpful. Julia Kennedy, Chemical Physics (pictured right) undertake project work using advanced astronomical instrumentation and data analysis techniques. Astronomy can only be taken as a Combined Honours degree with either Physics, Mathematics or Applied Mathmatics it cannot be taken as a single Honours degree. When you enter the Honours years you will undertake a series of core topics plus a range of optional courses. Some of these options courses can be taken in either your third, fourth or fifth years. Core and optional courses are: Instruments for optical and radio astronomy Cosmology Astronomical data analysis Exploring planetary systems General relativity and gravitation Stellar structure and evolution High energy astrophysics Galaxies Circumstellar matter Plasma theory and diagnostics Pulsars and supernovae Statistical astronomy. Chemical Physics Chemical physics is concerned with electrons, nuclei, atoms and molecules in all states of matter, and how they interact with their environment. This degree programme covers the area in which chemistry and physics overlap. What can I expect in first and second years? In first year, you will study physics, chemistry and mathematics. The physics courses are the same as those studied in the first year of the Single Honours Physics degree. In your second year you will continue your physics and chemistry studies. The physics courses are the same as those studied in the second year of the Single Honours Physics degree. If you progress to Honours you will study: In physics electromagnetism and four other chosen from a wide selection which includes modern optics, solid state physics, nuclear and particle physics, semiconductor physics and medical imaging. In chemistry various aspects of physical and inorganic chemistry including catalysis, solid state chemistry, coordination chemistry, quantum mechanics and symmetry, spectroscopy, thermodynamics and diffraction. You will gain an in-depth knowledge of chemistry, physics, mathematics and computing, and will be able to tackle most problems in chemistry and physics. In the final year, you will work closely with a member of staff on a research project. Physics/ Theoretical Physics Physics is the experimental and theoretical study of matter and energy and their interactions, ranging from the domain of elementary particles, through nuclear and atomic physics, to the physics of solids and, ultimately, to the origins of the universe itself. The laws of physics form the basis of most branches of science and engineering and are the foundation of modern technology. If you choose the Theoretical Physics degree your Honours programme will focus on more advanced theoretical topics, including general relativity and quantum field theory. Additionally, you will undertake specialised computational project work. What can I expect in first year? In first year (Level-1) you will: gain a basic understanding of the core topics in theoretical physics receive an introduction to the methods of experimental physics obtain a solid foundation for further study of the subject.

5 Outstanding physicist William Thomson Lord Kelvin joined the University as a student aged just ten years old. A professor at Glasgow for over 50 years, his contributions to the world of science range from thermal physics, electromagnetism and optics through to practical developments in domestic lighting, refrigeration, cable telegraph and marine compasses. Courses you will typically study are: Dynamics Wave motion Properties of matter Thermal physics Optics Electricity and magnetism. Atomic theory. What can I expect in second year? In second year (Level-2) you will: extend and deepen your broad physics education undergo further training in more specialised experimental techniques expand your awareness of the latest developments in modern physics research. Courses you will typically study are: Physics of waves Dynamics Physics of solids Thermal physics Electricity and magnetism Nuclear and particle physics Physics of optics Mathematical techniques. If you progress to Honours you will: continue to study in greater depth core topics spanning all areas of physics, from sub-atomic particles to optics and electromagnetism explore a range of specialist topics of your choice including highlights of the very latest cutting-edge research undertake project work, often within a worldleading research group. When you enter the Honours years you will undertake a series of core topics plus a range of optional courses. Some of these options courses can be taken in either your third, fourth or fifth years. Core and optional courses include: Waves and diffraction Circuits and systems Quantum mechanics Thermal physics Electromagnetism Modern optics Medical imaging Numerical methods Solid state physics Nuclear and particle physics Atomic systems Semiconductor physics Electronic signal transmission Statistical mechanics Dynamics and relativity Mathematical methods. Physics with Astrophysics In this degree programme the study of physics is pursued with particular focus on astrophysical phenomena: from stars and planets to galaxies and cosmology. Astrophysics provides a natural laboratory in which to explore the laws of physics, and in certain astrophysical objects such as pulsars, quasars and black holes to test those laws under extreme conditions. What can I expect in first year? In first year (Level-1) you will gain a basic understanding of the main topics in theoretical physics and will be introduced to the methods of experimental physics, thereby providing a solid foundation for further study in physics. The courses you will study are the same as those studied in the first year of the Single Honours Physics degree. If you choose to take Level-1 Astronomy, the courses are as listed in that section. What can I expect in second year? The second year (Level-2) will extend your broad physics education, providing training in more specialised experimental techniques and expanding your awareness of the latest developments in modern physics research. The physics courses you will study are the same as those of a Level-2 Single Honours Physics degree. You will also be introduced to the foundations of astronomy, covering topics including the physics of our solar system, dynamical astronomy and the potential for life in the universe. (This astronomy content can be covered in first year.) If you progress to Honours you will continue to study core topics in greater depth but will also study specialist of your choice in depth and will undertake project work, often within a world-leading research group. The main astrophysics components of the Honours programme include: Stellar structure and evolution High energy astrophysics Cosmology and general relativity Instruments for optical and radio telescopes Plasma theory and diagnostics. Can I study abroad? The University takes part in the Socrates Erasmus and International Exchange programmes. Students are given the opportunity to undertake part of their second or third years of study, usually one semester or one academic year, at an institution in another country. In recent years, students have studied in France, Germany, the United States, Canada and Australia. The benefits are huge. You will not only be able to gain an entirely new perspective on your academic subject and enhance your employability, you will also find out new things about yourself, increase your independence, develop self-confidence, learn to live and work with people from different backgrounds and cultures and form a large circle of international friends. The University holds a Study Abroad Fair every November. Information is also available on our website: What are my career prospects? Employers are competing for good physics graduates at a time when there is a worldwide shortage, making employment prospects for physics and astronomy graduates very good. The scientific knowledge and mathematical and analytical skills you acquire could find you working across a wide range of industries including: aerospace electronics semiconductors petroleum communications computing medical physics education commerce civil service both in scientific and administrative areas. Many of our graduates choose to continue their studies for a higher degree such as an MSc or a PhD in a specialised area of physics or astronomy, or a related subject, before entering the job market.

6 Scotland at its artsy, riotous, high-octane, good-time best. Lonely Planet City of Glasgow What is it like living and studying in Glasgow? Named as one of the world s top ten cities by independent travel guide Lonely Planet, Glasgow attracts the largest student population in Scotland. The city s reputation for friendliness means that wherever you come from, you ll soon treat it as your second home. Music and nightlife In an average week Glasgow hosts 123 bands, 72 classical composers, 49 choirs, 38 orchestras and 21 jazz bands. Renowned for discovering acts from Franz Ferdinand to Primal Scream, the city has fantastic venues for live music including King Tut s Wah Wah Hut voted UK s best live venue by listeners of Radio 1 three years in a row. More than 700 bars, pubs and nightclubs mean no two nights in Glasgow are the same. Whether you re after a record-breaking 100-foot long bar where everyone can be a barfly (the Horseshoe), or a pub with a log fire, stuffed stags heads and kilted staff that s as appealing as it is unpronounceable (Uisge Beatha), Glasgow has a venue to suit. Dance until you drop at the Subclub, or travel back to 1920s America at the Vegas clubnight on the Renfrew Ferry, it s up to you. Festivals At least one festival every month of the year shows Glasgow loves to celebrate. Some of our favourites include Glasgow International Comedy Festival, Celtic Connections folk music festival, Glasgay, Piping Live!, Glasgow Film Festival and Aye Write!, the city s book festival. Culture The city of Glasgow owns one of the richest collections in Europe, displayed in 13 museums and art galleries and admission is free. You are spoilt for choice, with the city s famous Burrell collection vying for attention beside Scotland s most visited attraction, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, located next door to the University. Sport The city will host the Commonwealth Games in Across the world people know Glasgow as home of Celtic and Rangers football clubs, but with no fewer than 27 public fitness centres including swimming pools, running tracks, 11-a-side pitches and tennis courts, you re guaranteed to find something to get involved with, whatever your level of fitness. Campus culture Are you craving cosy campus living or do you prefer big city excitement. Whichever is your style, you ll be impressed by the University s excellent location in the compact West End. Just two miles from the city centre, with great bus and underground links, the West End has a reputation as the bohemian, trendy and cosmopolitan quarter of Glasgow. What our students say Glasgow is such a diverse and vibrant city with lots to offer and a great social scene with a fantastic range of bars, clubs and music venues. Alexander Hutchison I chose Glasgow because compared to the other cities I visited it just seemed like a much more lively place. I think the high student population makes it a very young city. Elizabeth Ritz The campus at Glasgow is unbelievably beautiful. It s hard to believe sometimes when walking down busy Byres Road and turning into University Avenue, that this Hogwarts is situated right in the heart of the West End. Beverley Simpson University of Glasgow, May Produced by Corporate Communications, University of Glasgow. Printed by CCB. University of Glasgow charity no: SC Glasgow is very vibrant. The West End is like the village within the city. Sarah Gibson