Physics modules

Browse Physics to find descriptions, what you will learn, how you will be taught, and how you will be assessed.

Level 1

  • Module

    Mechanics module (EG11008)

    Learn how and why things move, from falling objects to spinning wheels, through forces, energy, and motion

    • Module code: EG11008
    • Credits: 10
    • Level: 1
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Professional Skills module (PH11002)

    Develop confidence in critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and teamwork. Acquire the professional skills all mathematicians and physicists require to succeed

    • Module code: PH11002
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 1
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Space Physics and Astronomy module (PH12003)

    Explore stars, galaxies, black holes, and the structure of the universe in this introductory module on space physics and astronomy.

    • Module code: PH12003
    • Credits: 10
    • Level: 1
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Light and Matter module (PH12004)

    Learn about light and matter, which form the foundations of modern physics.

    • Module code: PH12004
    • Credits: 10
    • Level: 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Waves and Mechanics module (PH12005)

    Learn the core physics of balance, fluids, and waves in this module exploring mechanics, oscillations, and the behaviour of sound.

    • Module code: PH12005
    • Credits: 10
    • Level: 1
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics

Level 2

  • Module

    Fundamentals of Programming module (CE21005)

    Focus on the development of basic programming skills. These will be suitable for use in Civil Engineering through hands-on experience of the use of Python

    • Module code: CE21005
    • Credits: 10
    • Level: 2
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Electromagnetism and Light module (PH21001)

    Learn about electricity, electromagnetism, and light to gain an understanding of the physics underpinning most technology

    • Module code: PH21001
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 2
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Introduction to Programming module (PH21002)

    Learn to code in Python and MATLAB, two of the most in-demand tools for science, engineering, and data-driven industries

    • Module code: PH21002
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 2
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Classical and Quantum Matter and Radiation module (PH22001)

    Develop your understanding of thermal and condensed matter physics, as well as nuclear and particle physics

    • Module code: PH22001
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 2
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics

Level 3

  • Module

    Quantum Mechanics I module (PH31005)

    Learn about the behaviour of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level

    • Module code: PH31005
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 3
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Electrodynamics I module (PH31007)

    Investigate fundamental aspects of electricity and magnetism, including Maxwell’s equations.

    • Module code: PH31007
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 3
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Mathematical Methods for Physics module (PH31008)

    Master the advanced maths used in physics, from vector calculus to Fourier transforms and matrix methods

    • Module code: PH31008
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 3
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Optics and Photonics module (PH31017)

    Explore the science of light and its use in lasers, sensors, and optical systems through wave theory, photonics, and practical optical design

    • Module code: PH31017
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 3
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Advanced Experimental Physics module (PH32006)

    Build upon your learning from Level 2. You will test theories of the physical world around us. This will cover from sub-atomic structure to universe scale effects

    • Module code: PH32006
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 3
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Classical Mechanics and Relativity module (PH32017)

    Learn how to model motion, rotation, and relativity in this advanced module connecting Newton’s laws to Einstein’s theory of space and time

    • Module code: PH32017
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 3
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics

Level 4

  • Module

    Physics Project module (PH40006)

    Undertake a supervised, independent project that is laboratory-based, computational, or theoretical

    • Module code: PH40006
    • Credits: 30
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Both Semester 1 and 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Optics and Photonics I module (PH41005)

    Learn about the nature of light and its interactions with matter, lenses, and lasers. Explore all the optics concepts expected for a physics graduate

    • Module code: PH41005
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Condensed Matter Physics I module (PH41007)

    Explore the atomic structure of materials, from crystals to semiconductors, and learn how condensed matter physics explains the world of modern devices

    • Module code: PH41007
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Stars and Planetary Systems module (PH41008)

    Discover the fundamental principles and observational techniques used to study stars and planetary systems

    • Module code: PH41008
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Galaxies and The Universe module (PH41009)

    Explore galaxies, black holes, and the expanding universe in this advanced astrophysics module on cosmic structure and cosmology

    • Module code: PH41009
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Nuclear and Particle Physics module (PH42006)

    Study the physics of nuclei, particles, and fusion, and explore how nuclear science helps power the universe and our future

    • Module code: PH42006
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Classical Mechanics and Relativity module (PH42008)

    Learn how to model motion, rotation, and relativity in this advanced module connecting Newton’s laws to Einstein’s theory of space and time

    • Module code: PH42008
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Thermal Physics module (PH42009)

    Explore how heat, energy, and entropy shape the universe through the powerful principles of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics

    • Module code: PH42009
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Solar Energy module (RE41002)

    Learn how solar energy is a vital part of renewable energies and discover the cutting edge physics and technology behind harvesting solar energy.

    • Module code: RE41002
    • Credits: 15
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics

Level 5

  • Module

    Independent Investigations module (PH50006)

    Choose your own topic, study it independently, and present it clearly. Develop industry-ready skills in research, communication, and self-directed learning.

    • Module code: PH50006
    • Credits: 25
    • Level: 5
    • Semester: Both Semester 1 and 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Physics Research Project II (MSci) module (PH50007)

    Continue your supervised, independent project started in the module Physics Research Project I (PH50009) and show greater independence and understanding.

    • Module code: PH50007
    • Credits: 45
    • Level: 5
    • Semester: Both Semester 1 and 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Machine Learning for Scientists module (PH51001)

    Gain industry-relevant skills in Python, machine learning, and data science in this hands-on, lab-based module for scientists

    • Module code: PH51001
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 5
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Programming for Scientists module (PH51010)

    You will learn the core concepts of how software works. You will also develop basic programming skills to tackle problems in science and engineering

    • Module code: PH51010
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 5
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Renewable Energy Systems, Applications and Developments module (RE51002)

    You will focus on solar, wind, hydro, biomass, and other renewable technologies. You will learn to develop the roadmap and strategies towards a net-zero future

    • Module code: RE51002
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 5
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Renewable Resource Modelling and Assessment module (RE52003)

    Learn about advanced energy modelling tools to develop sustainable strategies. These strategies aim to achieve a net-zero future nationally and internationally

    • Module code: RE52003
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 5
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics