14Jun
UndergraduateDurham University has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework.These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Open days
Course summary
If you are fascinated by the relationship between mathematics, the cosmos and the scientific world this MPhys could be for you. This integrated Master's degree is the first step towards Chartered Physicist status. It will suit those looking for an accredited course that leads to higher level education or a research role in physics, while also providing the knowledge, analytical and problem-solving skills for a career in the sciences, engineering, finance or IT. Physics degrees at Durham offer a high level of flexibility. We offer four Institute of Physics accredited courses - MPhys qualifications in Physics, Physics and Astronomy, and Theoretical Physics and the three-year BSc in Physics - which follow the same core curriculum in Year 1. Subject to the optional modules chosen, it is possible to switch to one of the other courses until the end of the second year. You can also apply for a one-year work placement or study abroad opportunity with one of our partner organisations, increasing the course from four years to five or substituting the existing Year 3. The first year lays the foundation in physics theory, mathematical skills and laboratory skills that you will need to tackle more complex content later in the course. From Year 2 the focus on astronomy and astrophysics increases. As you progress through the course, learning is more closely aligned to real-world issues through project work and optional modules that are tailored to your interests and aspirations. Your knowledge is further extended with a project based on a live research topic, and higher-level modules which take your study of physics and astronomy to a greater depth.
Modules
Year 1 Core modules: Foundations of Physics introduces classical aspects of wave phenomena and electromagnetism, plus basic concepts in Newtonian mechanics, quantum mechanics, special relativity and optical physics. Discovery Skills in Physics - practical introduction to laboratory skills development with emphasis on measurement uncertainty, data analysis and written and oral communication skills. Includes an introduction to programming. Year 2 Core modules: Foundations of Physics A develops knowledge of quantum mechanics and electromagnetism, applying the principles of physics to predictable and unpredictable problems and produce a well-structured solution, with clear reasoning and appropriate presentation. Foundations of Physics B extends knowledge of thermodynamics, condensed matter physics and optics. Stars and Galaxies introduces astronomy and astrophysics, developing understanding of the basic physics of stellar interiors and learning why we see stars of differing colours and brightness. The module extends knowledge of pulsating and binary stars and introduces galactic and extragalactic astronomy. Mathematical Methods in Physics provides the necessary mathematical knowledge to successfully tackle the Foundations of Physics modules. It covers vectors, vector integral and vector differential calculus, multivariable calculus and orthogonal curvilinear coordinates, Fourier analysis, orthogonal functions, the use of matrices, and the mathematical tools for solving ordinary and partial differential equations occurring in a variety of physical problems. Laboratory Skills and Electronics builds lab-based skills, such as experiment planning, data analysis, scientific communication and specific practical skills. It aims to teach electronics as a theoretical and a practical subject, the techniques of computational physics and numerical methods and to provide experience of a research-led investigation in physics in preparation for post-university life. Year 3 Core modules: Foundations of Physics A further develops knowledge to include quantum mechanics and nuclear and particle physics, applying the principles of physics to complex problems and produce a well-structured solution, with clear reasoning and appropriate presentation. Foundations of Physics B extends knowledge to include statistical physics and condensed matter physics. Planets and Cosmology explains the astrophysical origin of planetary systems and the cosmological origin of the Universe, including the formation and workings of our Solar System, its orbital dynamics and the basic physics of planetary interiors and atmospheres. The Computing Project develops your computational and problem-solving skills, working on advanced computational physics problems using a variety of modern computing techniques and presenting your findings in a project report, poster and oral presentation. Year 4 Core modules: The research-based MPhys Project provides experience of work in a research environment on a topic at the forefront of developments in a branch of either physics, applied physics, theoretical physics or astronomy, and develops transferable skills for the oral and written presentation of research. The project can be completed individually or in a small group, in one of the Department's research groups or in collaboration with an external organisation. Advanced Astrophysics covers astronomical techniques and radiative processes in astrophysics, providing a working knowledge of the advanced optical techniques used in modern astronomy and of the radiative processes that generate the emission that is studied in a wide range of astronomical observations. Theoretical Astrophysics examines cosmic structure formation and general relativity, including an overview of our current understanding of the formation and evolution of cosmic structure and an introduction to Einstein's general theory of relativity. For examples of optional modules refer 2 www.durham.ac.uk/study/courses/ff3n/
Assessment method
Assessment is mainly by end-of-year examinations and by project reports and presentations. The range of assessment methods is designed to assess your knowledge and understanding of the course content, test your capacity to solve problems, enhance your written and oral communication skills, and assess your ability to relate your learning to real-world scenarios.
How to apply
This course has limited vacancies, and is no longer accepting applications from some students. See the list below for where you normally live, to check if you’re eligible to apply.
EU
Wales
England
International
Scotland
Northern Ireland
Republic of Ireland
31Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- FF3N
- Institution code:
- D86
- Campus name:
- Durham City
- Campus code:
- O
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - Not accepted
A level - A*A*A
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - D*DD
Access to HE Diploma - Not accepted
Scottish Higher
Scottish Advanced Higher - AAA
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - 38 points
Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) - Not accepted
Extended Project - Not accepted
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017) - H1, H1, H2, H2, H2
Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate - Principal - D2, D2, D3
OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma - D*DD
T Level
Our contextual offer for this programme is A level A*A in Mathematics and Physics and B (or equivalent). To find out if you’re eligible, please visit: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/how-to-apply/what-happens-to-your-application/contextual-offers/
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
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/
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
Go onto work and study
The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Republic of Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £9250 | Year 1 |
| EU | £30500 | Year 1 |
| England | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9250 | Year 1 |
| International | £30500 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
The tuition fees for 2024/25 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed here once approved.
Provider information
Durham University
The Palatine Centre
Stockton Road
Durham
DH1 3LE