21Oct
PostgraduateCourse summary
From the fundamental constituents that form the building blocks of the universe to the study of the vast structures that populate it, Durham’s MSc in Particles, Strings and Cosmology explores some of the most important questions in science today. Developed and delivered by experts in the field, you will have the opportunity to work with internationally recognised researchers as you explore advanced theories and emerging techniques in these closely related areas. This 12-month taught MSc is an ideal choice if you achieved a good first degree in either physics or a mathematics degree which included modules in quantum mechanics and relativity. You will receive a thorough training in theoretical high-energy physics through a combination of structured lectures and individual supervision with much of your learning shaped by the research taking place in the Centre for Particle Theory – a combined research group in the mathematics and physics departments that forms one of the largest and most highly regarded particle theory groups in the UK. The course comprises a series of lecture-based modules covering areas from astroparticle physics to superstring theory. You will also complete a dissertation on a topic of current research, prepared under the guidance of a supervisor with expertise in the specific area. The MSc is a rigorous course that offers a springboard for a PhD in Theoretical Particle Physics within the Centre for Particle Theory. By the end of the course, we aim to develop highly specialised skills that will equip you with the knowledge to understand advanced theoretical physics, the tools to solve complex problems and the confidence to draw your own conclusions.
Modules
Core modules: Elementary Particle Theory I A introduces the areas of quantum field theory (path integrals for quantum mechanics), general relativity, and group theory at an appropriate level for the study of particle physics, string theory and cosmology at MSc. Elementary Particle Theory I B introduces quantum electrodynamics, particle theory, the standard model, and its interplay with cosmology at an appropriate level for MSc study. Elementary Particle Theory II A explores the ideas, the mathematical methods and the experimental underpinnings of modern theoretical particle physics in greater depth. You will master a coherent body of knowledge from a selection of; conformal field theory, quantum chromodynamics, astroparticle physics, neutrino physics, renormalisation group, and supersymmetry. Elementary Particle Theory II B explores the ideas, the mathematical methods and the experimental underpinnings of modern theoretical particle physics in greater depth. You will master a coherent body of knowledge from a selection of; flavour physics, superstring theory, scattering amplitudes, non-perturbative physics, Higgs physics, and cosmology II (advanced topics in cosmology). The Dissertation, of up to 20,000 words, is a supervised extended report into a current area of research in elementary particle theory. It will develop your skills in creative and critical thinking, your ability to conduct research into a specialist area and present your findings clearly. You can choose to focus your dissertation on either physics or mathematics.
Assessment method
The course is structured around a series of lectures, starting with a general survey of particle physics and introductory courses on quantum field theory and group theory, leading on to more specialised topics, including string theory, cosmology, supersymmetry and more detailed aspects of the standard model. The main lectures take place during the first two terms, comprising of two teaching periods of 4 weeks. There are 14 lectures per week during these terms, the content of which is explored in depth in weekly tutorials. You will also be set a number of assignments to reinforce your understanding of the material. We offer additional optional lectures in the third term, introducing advanced topics which are intended as preparation for research in these areas. The final component of the course is a dissertation on a topic of current research, prepared under the guidance of a supervisor with expertise in the area. The dissertation must be submitted by mid-September, the end of the 12-month course period. There are also 8 hours of learning related to scientific computing during this period. The lecture-based modules make up two-thirds of the course and are assessed by a 3-hour examination per module, with the final third of your marks gained through the research and writing of a dissertation of up to 20,000 words.
How to apply
International applicants
If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take a pre-Masters pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.
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 Honours in either Physics or Mathematics.
English language requirements
Durham University welcomes applications from all students irrespective of background. We encourage the recruitment of academically well-qualified and highly motivated students, who are non-native speakers of English, whose full potential can be realised with a limited amount of English Language training either prior to entry or through pre-sessional and/or in-sessional courses. It is the normal expectation that candidates for admission should be able to demonstrate satisfactory English proficiency before the start of a programme of study, whether via the submission of an appropriate English language qualification or by attendance on an appropriate pre-sessional course. Acceptable evidence and levels required can be viewed by following the link provided.
English language requirements
https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £12250 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £12250 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £12250 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £12250 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £12250 | Year 1 |
| EU | £27900 | Year 1 |
| International | £27900 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £27900 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).
Sponsorship information
For further information see the course listing.
Provider information
Durham University
The Palatine Centre
Stockton Road
Durham
DH1 3LE