The Master of Science (MSc) programme enables you to pursue advanced study in your area of interest with the opportunity to work on independent research.

Programme overview

Studying for an MSc is an opportunity for committed scientists to focus on a relevant area of interest or practise and pursue an advanced qualification. While taught masters will provide you with specialist training in your chosen field, a research masters will develop advanced research skills, working alongside Faculty of Science researchers - many of whom are major contributors in their field. Late Year Semester will start in December.

120-point MSc

Most students enter an MSc following completion of a PGDipSci. You will need to complete 120 points (maximum of 160 points) in a specialisation within one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study (research masters) or four years of part-time study (taught masters). Not all specialisations offer both taught and research options.

240-point MSc

If you enter a MSc directly from an undergraduate degree you will need to complete 240 points (maximum of 280 points) in a specialisation in two years of full-time study or four years of part-time study (research masters) or six years of part-time study (taught masters). Not all specialisations offer both taught and research options.

Physics

Whether your interest lies in pure physics or a multidisciplinary field, postgraduate study in Physics offers you a wide-range of research options.

From inventing new kinds of lasers, creating innovative technologies to diagnose illness in living tissue, understanding the Earth’s changing climate, searching for planets around distant stars, to understanding the connections between particle physics and the Big Bang - our graduates are well-equipped to work in industry and academia.

You will gain an understanding of the nature of the physical world, alongside training in experimental methods, and the mathematical analysis of physical processes.

Areas of research interests open to exploration include:

• Physics of the Environment
• Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Optics
• Particle Physics and Astrophysics
• Statistical and Condensed Matter Physics
• Complex Systems and Biophysics
• Medical physics and imaging technologies

All of modern science and technology is underpinned by physics and postgraduate study is a good foundation for a career in research, business, finance, IT and the engineering sector.

Jobs related to Physics include:

• Geophysicist/field seismologist
• Investment analyst
• Metallurgist
• Meteorologist
• Nanotechnologist
• Nuclear engineer
• Radiation protection practitioner
• Researcher
• Scientific instrument manufacture
• Software engineer

Where could this programme take you?

As a graduate of the MSc programme you will be skilled in a focused area of expertise, and better equipped to find employment in your chosen field. The MSc is a vital qualification if you want to pursue employment in a research-led area, or progress further academically.

Further study options

Doctor of Philosophy

1 December start available for 120-point research masters only, subject to supervisor availability.