Course summary
The Masters in Theoretical Physics provides an introduction to advanced topics in theoretical physics, ranging across the research frontier from quantum computing and optics, to theoretical astrophysics and cosmology, and calculations for elementary-particle physics. The constituent courses and research projects are delivered by experts in these areas, including members of the teams responsible for the discoveries and theoretical exploitations of the Higgs-boson discovery at the LHC, and of gravitational waves by the LIGO collaboration. It is suitable both for students who want a more advanced knowledge of theoretical concepts than possible at undergraduate level (and real research experience), and as an ideal preparation for applications to PhDs in theoretical physics. WHY THIS PROGRAMME
- Theoretical research in the School ranges from fundamental physics to experimental applications, and includes cutting edge topics such as quantum information and computing, and chirality and light-matter interactions.
- You will gain the theoretical, observational and computational skills necessary to analyse and solve advanced physics problems, from quantum theory to cosmology, providing you with an excellent foundation for a scientific career in academia or industry.
- You will benefit from direct contact with our group of international experts who will teach you cutting-edge physics and work closely with you on a novel, 3-month research project.
- Fundamental-physics researchers in the School play leading roles in theory calculations for the Large Hadron Collider and other particle physics, and for gravitational wave searches with Advanced LIGO and future GW detectors.
- You will develop transferable skills that will improve your career prospects, such as project management, team-working, advanced data analysis, problem-solving, critical evaluation of scientific literature, advanced laboratory and computing skills, and how to effectively communicate with different audiences.
- You will also benefit from our membership of the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance. The alliance brings together internationally leading physics research across Scotland to form the largest physics grouping in the UK.
- The School of Physics and Astronomy is active in research and knowledge transfer projects with industry. Our Masters students have opportunities to engage with industry through seminars and research projects.
- This programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics. Accredited MSc programmes automatically meet the master’s level education requirement for Chartered Physicist (CPhys) status. To fully meet the educational requirements for CPhys graduates must also possess an IOP accredited undergraduate degree or equivalent.
- The School has IoP Juno Champion and Athena Swan Silver Awards, demonstrating its support for women and under-represented groups in scientific studies and careers, with the goal to improve the working environment for all.
How to apply
International applicants
International applicant information can be found via gla.ac.uk by searching for 'international'. Classes start September 2021 and you may be expected to attend induction sessions the week before.
This course has a subject classification which requires students whose nationality is outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland to have an ATAS certificate, irrespective of country of residence at the point of application.
Further information can be found on the UK Government's website: www.gov.uk/academic-technology-approval-scheme
Entry requirements
2.1 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in Theoretical Physics with at least 4 credit bearing modules in Modern Physics at an average grade of pass. We may also accept degrees in Mathematics with content in Physics or Joint Physics in Mathematics or Chemistry. A 2.2 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in Theoretical Physics/Physics followed by substantial relevant experience may be considered on an individual basis. A personal statement is required for this programme. Prerequisite experience needed: Assumed knowledge for the core courses in this degree include: Basic mathematics for physics: single and multi-variable calculus (differentiation and integration), trigonometry, complex numbers, vectors, vector calculus, Taylor and Fourier series, Fourier transforms. Introductory scientific computing: data handling, simple statistics (computing means and variances), plotting functions and histograms, writing simple programs in a general-purpose programming language e.g. Python or C++. You must also have an understanding of the following: Familiarity with basic quantum mechanics, e.g. the meaning of wavefunctions, solving the time-independent Schrodinger equation for a set of simple potentials. Experience of electromagnetism calculations, in particular working with Maxwell's equations, and solving the Laplace equation for some simple geometries. Experience with special relativity (length contraction, time dilation, four-vectors). Familiarity with Newtonian dynamics, and solving dynamical systems using forces and accelerations; an awareness of Lagrangian dynamics and the link between symmetries and conserved quantities.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
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
All fees are published on the University of Glasgow website.
https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/feesandfunding/
Sponsorship information
Sponsorship and funding information can be found via gla.ac.uk by searching for 'scholarships'.
Provider information
University of Glasgow
Berkeley Square
Pavilion 3
99 Berkeley Street
Glasgow
G3 7HR