Course summary
Our MSc Physics by Research course is ideal both for graduates who would like to undertake original research without committing themselves to a three-year PhD, and for students who want to gain a research-based Masters before embarking on their PhD. The Department of Physics is known internationally for its top-class research. Our staff carry out research at the cutting edge of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Experimental Quantum Computing, Quantum Matter at Low Temperatures, Theoretical Physics, Dark Matter, Particle Physics and Biophysics, as well as other areas. Together they form a vibrant, intrernational community dedicated to collaborative research that has a global impact. Royal Holloway's Physics Department has strong links with leading international facilities, including Rutherford Appleton and the National Physical Laboratory, Oxford Instruments, SNOLAB, CERN, ISIS and Diamond. Our Masters courses are taught in collaboration with other University of London Colleges, providing you with a wide range of options.
- You'll join a major centre for Physics research-led teaching in the University of London and be part of a friendly, close-knit community.
- Our research portfolio continues to expand through the exploration of exciting new research directions and strategic research partnerships.
- We hold a regular series of colloquia and seminars on important research topics and host a number of guest lectures from external organisations.
Modules
Modules include: Major project and 3 course units from: research review; statistical mechanics; advanced quantum theory; relativistic waves and quantum fields; advanced quantum field theory; electromagnetic theory; galaxy and cluster dynamics; atom and photon physics; quantum computation and communication; molecular physics; particle physics; particle accelerator physics; order and excitations in condensed matter; theoretical treatments of nano-systems; physics at the nanoscale; superfluids, condensates and superconductors; standard model physics and beyond; nuclear magnetic resonance; statistical data analysis; string theory and branes; supersymmetry; stellar structure and evolution; advanced cosmology; relativity and gravitation; astrophysical fluid dynamics; planetary atmospheres; solar physics; solar system; the galaxy; space plasma and magnetospheric physics; extrasolar planets and astrophysical discs; astrophysical plasmas; molecular biophysics; theory of complex networks; equilibrium analysis of complex systems; dynamical analysis of complex systems; mathematical biology; elements of statistical learning.
Assessment method
This course is assessed by the completion of a major research project (75% of the final mark) as well as other coursework assignments (25% of the final mark).
How to apply
International applicants
With almost a third of our students joining us from outside the UK, Royal Holloway is a diverse community with a strong international spirit. Ranked highly in the UK and the world for international outlook in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Royal Holloway’s position recognises our global research impact and partnerships as well as student and staff diversity. Our alumni are found in 160 countries, working in industry, the arts, public sector and other areas, Royal Holloway is truly international both in ethos and impact. Within the 9,850 students enrolled at Royal Holloway, over 130 nationalities are represented, making our campus truly cosmopolitan. In addition, of the 104 societies and associations which enrich the post-study social life of our students, a quarter have an international flavour. We know a diverse community makes for a more creative and harder-working environment which benefits all our students, wherever they are from. Students from overseas can apply for all of our undergraduate degrees. We offer a range of additional support specifically for international students, including through our Centre for the Development of Academic Skills. For example, ‘Academic English’ for international students is provided for non-native speakers of English. The courses are designed to help you meet the challenges of academic work, including writing essays, following lectures, taking part in academic discussion and giving presentations. We also offer additional degree preparation courses for international students. See our website for full details. We have a number of scholarships that are dedicated to international students to help with tuition fees for undergraduate degrees. You can find a list of our current scholarship opportunities on our website.
Entry requirements
UK 2:1 (Honours) degree or equivalent in a relevant subject. English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all other subscores
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
EU | £23400 | Year 1 |
International | £23400 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
Royal Holloway, University of London
Egham
TW20 0EX