Course overview
This course allows you to study both physics and philosophy to degree level. It emphasises the interplay between these closely related subjects by allowing you the time to address some of the deeper philosophical questions that modern physics raises, such as the implications of the probabilistic interpretations of quantum mechanics. The degree offers a broad range of core physics modules with a reduced laboratory component, coupled with a mix of general and specific philosophy modules.
Year one
You will take a selected sub-sample of the core physics modules that connect to philosophy and a complementary selection of philosophy modules. You will also be taught the general mathematics that you will need to take physics to a higher level. Finally, there is a laboratory component specifically designed for joint-honours students.
Year two
You will study more advanced areas in current physics (such as quantum mechanics), and choose from a selection of philosophy modules. To fit both programmes within the available schedule, there is no laboratory component in this year.
Year three
In the first semester, you will finish the core syllabus of physics, and in the second semester, you will choose from a wide range of options in advanced physics and related subjects such as astrophysics. On the philosophy side, you will have a wide range of choices from among the more advanced options offered by the University. You will also complete a dissertation-style project in the third year.
More information
See also the Department of Philosophy
Entry requirements
A levels: AAA-AAB, including physics and maths at A level
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element)
TOEFL iBT 87 (no less than 21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking)
Alternative qualifications
For details see the alternative qualifications page
Notes for applicants
Scholarships - we offer a range of scholarships designed to assist you in settling in to your studies and meeting the financial requirements of your course. Some of these are means-tested but we also offer special scholarships that reward academic achievement.
One is offered on the basis of performance in the qualifying examinations for university entrance (eg A levels). A scholarship package is also offered to reward good performance in the qualifying (first-) year examinations. This scheme includes special prizes that have been inaugarated in collaboration with our commercial partners. Full details of all scholarship prizes will be provided at the UCAS open days.
Each year we also offer scholarships to well-qualified international applicants. These are worth approximately £2,500 in each year of study.
For more details about scholarships, please see www.nottingham.ac.uk/physics
Modules
The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.
Typical year-one modules
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Self, Mind and Body
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Reasoning and Argument: An Introduction to Philosophical Method
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From Newton to Einstein
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Locke: Appearance and Reality
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Elementary Logic
Typical year-two modules
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The Nature of Meaning
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The Quantum World
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Thermal and Statistical Physics
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Classical Fields
Typical year-three modules
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Atoms, Photons and Fundamental Particles
Typical optional modules
Here is a small sample of modules you will be able to choose from:
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Reasons for Action
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Philosophy of Religion
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Introduction to Ethics
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Political Philosophy
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Metaphysics
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Philosophy of Science: from Positivism to Postmodernism
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Marx
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The Structure of Stars
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Symmetry and Action Principles in Physics
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Theoretical Elementary Particle Physics
Skills and careers
You will have a sound knowledge of both subjects and an understanding of how the two relate. Throughout the course you will have developed a range of transferable skills including the ability to communicate effectively, study independently, develop and sustain a reasoned argument, process complex information, and to critically analyse data and information.
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2009/10 full-time graduates of the School of Physics and Astronomy was £21, 335.71.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2009/10.
Professional accreditation
This course is accredited by the Institute of Physics.