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)

    Discover how electric and magnetic fields combine to form light and power modern technologies, from circuits to communication systems

    • 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)

    Discover how thermal physics, quantum mechanics, and particle physics explain the behaviour of matter, from everyday materials to fundamental particles

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

    Fundamental Experimental Physics module (PH22003)

    Study experimental physics, focusing on data analysis, uncertainty, measurement techniques, and laboratory investigations across core physics topics

    • Module code: PH22003
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 2
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics

Level 3

  • Module

    Quantum Mechanics I module (PH31005)

    Learn how quantum mechanics describes the strange behaviour of particles and atoms, and how it powers modern technologies

    • 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)

    Develop advanced experimental physics skills, analyse data using Python and MATLAB, and present interactive experiments at a public science fair

    • 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
  • Module

    Advanced Experimental Astrophysics module (PH32018)

    Analyse real astrophysical data using Python and MATLAB from ground- and space-based observations, and present experiments at a public science fair

    • Module code: PH32018
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 3
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Power Engineering and the Grid module (RE32003)

    Explore how electricity is generated, transmitted, and managed in the grid, including renewable energy, power systems, and modern energy technologies

    • Module code: RE32003
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 3
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics

Level 4

  • Module

    Physics Project module (PH40006)

    Carry out a physics research project and tackle a real scientific problem using experimental, computational, or theoretical methods

    • 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)

    Explore how stars form, evolve, and die, and discover how planetary systems and exoplanets are created across the universe

    • 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 1
    • 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
  • Module

    Solar Energy module (RE41007)

    Explore how sunlight is converted into electricity and heat and learn the physics and technology behind solar energy and modern photovoltaic systems

    • Module code: RE41007
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 1
    • School: School of Science and Engineering
    • Discipline: Physics
  • Module

    Wind and Marine Energy module (RE42004)

    Explore how wind, hydro, wave, and tidal energy generate electricity, and learn the physics and engineering behind modern renewable energy systems

    • Module code: RE42004
    • Credits: 20
    • Level: 4
    • Semester: Semester 2
    • 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)

    Carry out your own physics research project and tackle real scientific problems at the forefront of modern research

    • 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

    Statistical Physics module (PH51011)

    Discover how the behaviour of countless particles explains thermodynamics, quantum statistics, and the properties of materials

    • Module code: PH51011
    • Credits: 15
    • 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