Physics - MPhys

This is an archived course for 2021 entry
2023 courses

Physics reaches from the quark out to the largest of galaxies, and encompasses all the matter and timescales within these extremes. As a Physicist you acquire practical experience and scientific knowledge as well as developing a wider range of skills that open the door to a wide range of careers.

At Kent you learn from academics making the discoveries that shape our world and our four-year Integrated Master's in Physics gives you the opportunity to work with these researchers, in an area of your choosing. This gives you a valuable postgraduate qualification which can help to give you the edge in the job market.

Overview

We have a strong focus on your future career and how to get you there, and to ensure you are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today's job market, our curriculum changes and adapts. You also benefit from our expert careers advice to give you the best possible start when deciding on your future career and a flexible approach that enable you to move between our range of Physics based programmes.

This programme is fully accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).

Our degree programme

In your first year, you get to grips with the broad knowledge base on which physical science is built, including electricity and light, mathematics, mechanics, thermodynamics and matter. You also develop your experimental, statistical and analytical skills.

Your second year covers a broad range of subjects including medical physics, quantum physics, atomic and nuclear physics, electromagnetism and optics, and mathematical techniques.

In your third year, the combination of specialist modules and an attachment to one of our research teams opens avenues for even deeper exploration: for example, in space probe instrumentation, fibre optics, the atomic-scale structure of a new engineering material, or neutron scattering work.

The final year of the MPhys programme brings your core knowledge and skills up to an advanced level. This stage concentrates on the in-depth training required for a science-based career, including the practical aspects of the research processes and a major project within the School's research group.

Your degree, your way

Our degrees are not only designed to give the best possible start to your career, they are also flexible so that you do the best degree for you. Up until your second year you are able to move between our programmes which, as well as our three-year BSc, include the opportunity to complete a professional placement to put into practice the skills you learnt and make valuable industry contacts, or include a year abroad as part of your integrated Master's courses.

If you do not have the grades or scientific background for direct entry, you can take the Physics Foundation Year. Upon successful completion of this year, you are able to to move onto any of our Physics, Physics with Astrophysics, or Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics degrees.

Fantastic facilities

You have access to first-class research facilities in new laboratories. These are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including a full characterisation suite for materials, including:

  • three powder diffractometers
  • a single crystal diffractometer
  • x-ray fluorescence
  • instruments to measure magnetic and transport properties
  • a Raman spectrometer
  • scanning electron microscopes
  • optical coherence tomography imaging equipment
  • optical spectrum analysers
  • two-stage light gas gun for impact studies
  • on-campus Beacon Observatory.

An excellent student experience

As well as a fascinating course with great opportunities to further your career potential, we work hard to give you the best possible wider student experience.

You will be part of an international scientific community of physics and astronomy, chemistry and forensic science, bioscience and medical and sport science students, as well as being able to join a range of student-led societies and groups.

As well as inspiring you to realise your potential, we are here to support this with excellent in-house student support to assist with pastoral issues and careers experts with specialist knowledge as well as Academic advisors and peer mentors to help with your studies.

Professional networks

You are encouraged to participate in conferences and professional events to build up your knowledge of the science community and enhance your professional development.

The University is a member of the South East Physics Network (SEPnet), which offers a competitive programme of summer internships to Stage 2 and 3 undergraduates.

Our department also has links with:

  • the Home Office
  • optical laboratories
  • local health authorities
  • aerospace/defence industries
  • software and engineering companies
  • Interpol

Featured video

Every day I just look around and think I'm so lucky to be here.

Anthony Quinlan - Physics MPhys

Entry requirements

Please also see our general entry requirements.

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    A level

    BBB, including A level Mathematics and Physics (not Use of Mathematics)

  • medal-empty Access to HE Diploma

    The University will not necessarily make conditional offers to all Access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. 

    If we make you an offer, you will need to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

  • medal-empty BTEC Nationals

    The University will consider applicants holding/studying BTEC Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) in a relevant Science or Engineering subject at 180 credits or more, on a case by case basis. Please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances

  • medal-empty International Baccalaureate

    34 points overall or 15 at Higher, including Mathematics 5 at HL or 6 at SL (not Mathematics Studies)

  • medal-empty International Foundation Programme

    N/A

Please contact the School for more information at study-physics@kent.ac.uk.  

The University welcomes applications from international students. Our international recruitment team can guide you on entry requirements. See our International Student website for further information about entry requirements for your country.

If you need to increase your level of science/mathematics ready for undergraduate study, we offer a Foundation Year programme which can help boost your previous scientific experience.

Meet our staff in your country

For more advice about applying to Kent, you can meet our staff at a range of international events. 

English Language Requirements

Please see our English language entry requirements web page.

If you need to improve your English language standard as a condition of your offer, you can attend one of our pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes before starting your degree programme. You attend these courses before starting your degree programme.

Course structure

Duration: 4 years full-time

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.

Stage 1

Compulsory modules currently include

This module provides an introduction to astronomy, beginning with our own solar system and extending to objects at the limits of the universe. Straightforward mathematics is used to develop a geometrical optics model for imaging with lenses and mirrors, and this is then used to explore the principles of astronomical telescopes.

This module builds on prior knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, and trigonometry. It will cover key areas of mathematics which are widely used throughout undergraduate university physics. In the first part it will look at functions, series, derivatives and integrals. In the second part it will look at vectors, matrices and complex numbers.

This module builds on the Mathematics I module to develop key mathematical techniques involving multiple independent variables. These include the topics of differential equations, multivariate calculus, non-Cartesian coordinates, and vector calculus that are needed for Physics modules in Stages 2 and 3.

In this module the mathematics of vectors and calculus are used to describe motion, the effects of forces in accordance with Newton's laws, and the relation to momentum and energy. This description is extended to rotational motion, and the force of gravity. In addition, the modern topic of special relativity is introduced.

This module examines key physical phenomena of waves and fields which extend over time and space. The first part presents a mathematical description of oscillations and develops this to a description of wave phenomena. The second part is an introduction to electromagnetism which includes electric and magnetic fields before providing an introduction to the topic of electrical circuits.

This module develops the principles of mechanics to describe mechanical properties of liquids and solids. It also introduces the principles of thermodynamics and uses them to describe properties of gases. The module also introduces the modern description of atoms and molecules based on quantum mechanics.

This module gives students experience in using laboratory apparatus and equipment to carry out physics experiments. They will also learn how to record and analyse data and write a report. The module also introduce students to using programming/scripting languages to analyse data, and the mathematics of probability and statistics.

Stage 2

You take all compulsory modules and then choose one from a list of optional modules.

Compulsory modules currently include

This module builds on the students' previous introduction to quantum phenomena taught in stage 1. Students develop and enhance their knowledge of quantum physics through the study of the theory, formalism and fundamental principles. This module covers for example the Schödinger equation, its meaning and how to solve it for simple models, the superposition principle and probability amplitudes.

This module applies some of the fundamental principles of physics to the study of atomic physics. Students build on their knowledge of quantum mechanics through the study of the theory, formalism, and fundamental principles in topics such as the hydrogen atom, the effect of a magnetic field on the atomic structure or the X-ray spectra of an atom.

This module builds on the brief introduction to electromagnetic fields previously taught in earlier stages. Students develop and enhance their knowledge of electromagnetism through the study of the theory, formalism and fundamental principles. This module covers for example the principles of electrostatics, magnetostatics and Maxwell’s equations.

In this module students develop their experience of the practical nature of physics, including developing their ability to execute an experiment, and to use programming scripts to process data. Students also develop their skill in analysis of uncertainties, and comparison with theory. The module strengthens students’ communication skills and knowledge of, and ability to write, all components of laboratory reports.

This module gives students experience of group work in the context of a physics investigation in an unfamiliar area. The module includes workshops for advice about successful group project work, and culminates in each group producing a report and presentation.

This module introduces and develops a knowledge of numerical approximations to solve problems in physics, building on the programming skills gained in earlier stages. In addition, it complements the analytical methods students are trained to use and extends the range of tools that they can use in later stages of the degree. This module covers for example how to solve linear equations, how to find eigenvalues and numerical integration and differentiation.

This module builds on the mathematics taught in earlier stages. Students will develop and enhance their knowledge of mathematical methods used in the physical sciences. This module covers for example how to solve linear differential equations and Fourier transforms.

Optional modules may include

To provide a basic but rigorous grounding in observational, computational and theoretical aspects of astrophysics to build on the descriptive course in Part I, and to consider evidence for the existence of exoplanets in other Solar Systems. NB Check wit Silvia as this is the old module title.

In this module you will gain a basic understanding of the major subsystems of a spacecraft system; knowledge of frameworks for understanding spacecraft trajectory and orbits, including interplanetary orbits, launch phase and attitude control; and awareness of the basic ideas of how space is a business/commercial opportunity and some of the management tools required in business.

Stage 3

Compulsory modules currently include

Students develop and enhance their skills of solving and discussing general problems in Physics (and its related disciplines of mathematics and engineering). For this module, only physical and mathematical concepts with which the students at this level are already familiar are used and required. Problems are presented and solutions discussed spanning several topics in the undergraduate physics curriculum (mechanics and statics, thermodynamics, and optics, etc). Problems are also discussed that primarily involve the application of formal logic and reasoning, simple probability, statistics, estimation and linear mathematics.

This module gives the student a brief introduction to the key aspects of optics fields. Students develop an ability to accurately deploy techniques of analysis in optics and photonics through the study of the theory, formalism, and fundamental principles. This enables students to describe, and solve problems with light interference and diffraction, fundamentals of lasers and fibre optics.

This module gives the student a systematic understanding of the key aspects of thermal and statistical physics, building on their previous introduction to thermodynamics. Students develop an ability to accurately deploy techniques of analysis in thermal and statistical physics through the study of the theory, formalism, and fundamental principles. This enables students to describe and solve problems related to advanced statistical concepts in thermodynamics and quantum mechanics.

This module builds on the students' previous introduction to the properties of matter, and electric and magnetic properties. Students develop and enhance their knowledge of condensed matter physics through the study of the theory, formalism and fundamental principles. The module provides foundations for the further study of materials and condensed matter, and detail of solid state electronic and opto-electronic devices. This module covers for example the structure of solids, free electron theory of metals and the study of semiconductors.

This module aims to develop the ability to undertake investigations where, as part of the exercise, the goals and methods have to be defined by the investigator. It will develop skills to perform literature searches, reviews and to plan, monitor and report on a project. These projects are open ended tasks, with an element of independent learning.

This module enhances student skills in planning, executing, and analysing a laboratory experiment. Experiments are performed to greater depths than ever before, with extensive use of laboratory notebooks, comprehensive data analysis, and a greater emphasis on understanding the relation to theory. In addition, the module enhances students’ ability to prepare the more detailed laboratory reports.

The aim of this module is to provide a primer into this important physics specialisation. Students develop and enhance their knowledge of medical imaging and radiology through the study of the theory, formalism, and fundamental principles. The range of subjects covered is intended to give a balanced introduction to Medical Physics, with emphasis on the core principles of medical imaging, radiation therapy and radiation safety. A small number of lectures is also allocated to the growing field of optical techniques.

The aim of this module is to provide a primer into this important physics specialisation. Students develop and enhance their knowledge of medical imaging and radiology through the study of the theory, formalism, and fundamental principles. The range of subjects covered is intended to give a balanced introduction to Medical Physics, with emphasis on the core principles of medical imaging, radiation therapy and radiation safety. A small number of lectures is also allocated to the growing field of optical techniques.

Stage 4

You take all compulsory modules and then one from the list of options.

Compulsory modules currently include

All MPhys students undertake a substantial, open-ended, individual, laboratory, theoretical or computationally-based project. The majority of the projects are directly related to the research conducted in the department and are undertaken within the various SPS research teams. Students must undertake a research project in an area relevant to their degree specialism, with project options tailored to the Physics, Physics with Astrophysics and Astronomy Space Science and Astrophysics programmes.

his module provides students with an appreciation of more advanced formulations of classical mechanics, including the Lagrange and Hamiltonian formulations, as well as other topics in mechanics and dynamics, including chaos.

This advanced level module provides students with an understanding of two emergent properties of matter: magnetism and superconductivity. In addition to studying the rich physics underpinning these phenomena, students will also gain an appreciation of their important applications in the modern world.

Quantum mechanics is the theoretical basis of much of modern physics. Building on the introductory quantum theory studied in earlier stages, this module will review some key foundational ideas before developing more advanced topics of quantum mechanics and quantum field theory.

Optional modules may include

This advanced specialist module provides students with in-depth knowledge of astrobiology as well as the science of the solar system’s formation and evolution. This includes the methods by which we explore our solar system

Fees

The 2021/22 annual tuition fees for this programme are:

  • Home full-time £9,250
  • EU full-time £15,400
  • International full-time £20,500

For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.

For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.* 

Your fee status

The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.

Additional costs

General additional costs

Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.

Funding

We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.

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University funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details. 

Government funding

You may be eligible for government finance to help pay for the costs of studying. See the Government's student finance website.

Scholarships

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence. 

The scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of A*AA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching is by lectures, practical classes, tutorials and workshops. You have an average of nine one-hour lectures, one or two days of practical or project work and a number of workshops each week. The practical modules include specific study skills in physics and general communication skills. In the MPhys final year, you work with a member of staff on an experimental or computing project.

Assessment is by written examinations at the end of each year and by continuous assessment of practical classes and other written assignments. Your final degree result is made up of a combined mark from the Stage 2/3/4 assessments with maximum weight applied to the final stage.

Please note that there are degree thresholds at stages 2 and 3 that you will be required to pass in order to continue onto the next stages.

Contact hours

For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours.  The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules.  Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.

Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules.  Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.

Programme aims

The programme aims to:

  • Foster an enthusiasm for physics by exploring the ways in which it is core to our understanding of nature and fundamental to many other scientific disciplines.
  • Enhance an appreciation of the application of physics in different contexts.
  • Involve students in a stimulating and satisfying experience of learning within a research-led environment.
  • Motivate and support a wide range of students in their endeavours to realise their academic potential.
  • Provide students with a balanced foundation of physics knowledge and practical skills and an understanding of scientific methodology.
  • Enable students to undertake and report on an experimental and/or theoretical investigation based in part on an extended research project.
  • Develop in students a range of transferable skills of general value.
  • Enable students to apply their skills and understanding to the solution of theoretical and practical problems.
  • Provide students with a knowledge base that allows them to progress into more specialised areas of physics, or into multi-disciplinary areas involving physical principles; the MPhys is particularly useful for those wishing to undertake physics research.
  • Generate in students an appreciation of the importance of physics in the industrial, economic, environmental and social contexts.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain a systematic understanding of most fundamental laws and principles of physics, along with their application to a variety of areas in physics, some of which are at the forefront of the discipline.

The areas covered include:

  • Electromagnetism.
  • Classical and quantum mechanics.
  • Statistical physics and thermodynamics.
  • Wave phenomena and the properties of matter as fundamental aspects.
  • Nuclear and particle physics.
  • Condensed matter physics.
  • Materials.
  • Plasmas and fluids.

Intellectual skills

You gain intellectual skills in how to:

  • Identify relevant principles and laws when dealing with problems and make approximations necessary to obtain solutions.
  • Solve problems in physics using appropriate mathematical tools.
  • Execute an experiment or investigation, analyse the results and draw valid conclusions.
  • Evaluate the level of uncertainty in experimental results and compare the results to expected outcomes, theoretical predictions or published data in order to evaluate their significance.
  • Use mathematical techniques and analysis to model physical phenomena.
  • Solve advanced problems in physics using mathematical tools, translate problems into mathematical statements and apply knowledge to obtain order of magnitude or more precise solutions.
  • Interpret mathematical descriptions of physical phenomena.
  • Plan an experiment or investigation under supervision and understand the significance of error analysis.
  • A working knowledge of a variety of experimental, mathematical and/or computational techniques applicable to current research within physics.

Subject-specific skills

You gain subject-specific skills in:

  • The use of communications and IT packages for the retrieval of information and analysis of data.
  • How to present and interpret information graphically.
  • The use of laboratory apparatus and techniques, including aspects of health and safety.
  • The systematic and reliable recording of experimental data.
  • Communications and IT skills which show fluency at the level needed for project work, such as familiarity with a programming language, simulation software or the use of mathematical packages for the manipulation and numerical solution of equations.
  • An ability to communicate complex scientific ideas, the conclusion of an experiment, investigation or project concisely, accurately and informatively.
  • Experimental skills showing the competent use of specialised equipment, the ability to identify appropriate pieces of equipment and master new techniques.
  • An ability to make use of appropriate texts, research-based materials or other learning resources as part of managing your own learning; an ability to make use of research articles and other primary sources.

Transferable skills

You gain transferable skills in:

  • Problem-solving including the ability to formulate problems in precise terms, identify key issues and have the confidence to try different approaches.
  • Independent investigative skills including the use of textbooks, other literature, databases and interaction with colleagues.
  • Communication skills when dealing with surprising ideas and difficult concepts, including listening carefully, reading demanding texts and presenting complex information in a clear and concise manner.
  • Analytical skills including the ability to manipulate precise and intricate ideas,  construct logical arguments, use technical language correctly and pay attention to detail.
  • Personal skills including the ability to work independently, use initiative, organise your time to meet deadlines and interact constructively with other people.

Independent rankings

Physics and Astronomy at Kent scored 89% overall in The Complete University Guide 2021.

Careers

Graduate destinations

Kent Physics graduates have an excellent employment record with recent graduates going on to work for employers:

  • Defence Science and Technology
  • Rolls Royce
  • Siemens
  • IBM

Career-enhancing skills

You graduate with an excellent grounding in scientific knowledge and extensive laboratory experience. In addition, you also develop the key transferable skills sought by employers, such as:

  • excellent communication skills
  • work independently or as part of a team
  • the ability to solve problems and think analytically
  • time management.

You can also enhance your degree studies by signing up for one of our Kent Extra activities, such as learning a language or volunteering.

Help finding a job

The University has a friendly Careers and Employability Service which can give you advice on how to:

  • apply for jobs
  • write a good CV
  • perform well in interviews.

Professional recognition

Fully accredited by the Institute of Physics.

Apply for Physics - MPhys

This course page is for the 2021/22 academic year. Please visit the current online prospectus for a list of undergraduate courses we offer.

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