Undergraduate student measuring resonance with a rubidium optical pump in our dark room in the Physics Building

Physics MSci

University Park Campus, Nottingham, UK

Course overview

We have a proud history of learning and innovation. Research undertaken within the School of Physics and Astronomy, by Professor Sir Peter Mansfield, was recognised with a 2003 Nobel Prize for the invention of Magnetic Resonance Imaging body scanners. This technology has already helped more than half a billion people worldwide. More recently, our use of quantum technologies to understand how the brain works is changing the way that neurological conditions are detected and treated.

Our research activities cover cutting-edge topics ranging from probing quantum mechanics at ultralow temperatures to understanding the largest structures in the Universe. 

We prepare you for life after university - we have an international Work Experience Showcase, which is an opportunity for you to find out about work experience, and our Faculty of Science Careers Team provides lifelong careers support, expert advice and guidance, individual appointments and help with CVs and job applications.

 

Indicative modules

Mandatory

Year 1

Mathematical Methods and Modelling for Physicists

Mandatory

Year 1

Fundamentals of Classical and Modern Physics

Mandatory

Year 1

Investigations in Physics I

Mandatory

Year 2

Electromagnetism and Optics

Mandatory

Year 2

Investigations in Physics II

Mandatory

Year 2

Professional Skills for Physicists

Mandatory

Year 2

Quantum and Statistical Physics

Optional

Year 2

Dynamics and Symmetries

Optional

Year 2

Ionizing Radiation in Medicine

Optional

Year 2

Soft Matter and Nanoscience

Optional

Year 2

Stars and Their Exoplanets

Mandatory

Year 3

From Quarks to Crystals

Mandatory

Year 3

Physics Group Project

Optional

Year 3

Advanced Quantum Physics

Optional

Year 3

Bioelectrical Processes and Measurements

Optional

Year 3

Elementary Particle Physics

Optional

Year 3

Astrophysics at the Extremes

Optional

Year 3

Galaxies and Cosmology

Optional

Year 3

Imaging with Non-Ionizing Radiation

Optional

Year 3

Methods of Computational Physics

Optional

Year 3

Methods of Experimental Physics

Optional

Year 3

Phases of Matter

Optional

Year 3

Spacetime and Gravity

Optional

Year 3

The Physics of Semiconductors

Mandatory

Year 4

Physics Research Project

Optional

Year 4

Applications of Modern Physics

Optional

Year 4

Frontiers in Astrophysics

Optional

Year 4

Advanced Gravity: from Gravitational Waves to String Theory

Optional

Year 4

Big Data and Image Processing

Optional

Year 4

Light-Matter Interactions

Optional

Year 4

Modern Ideas in Cosmology

Optional

Year 4

Quantum Coherent Phenomena and Devices

Optional

Year 4

Quantum Matter

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About modules

The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer, but is not intended to be construed or relied on as a definitive list of what might be available in any given year. This content was last updated on Tuesday 15 April 2025. Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.

Teaching methods

  • Computer labs
  • Lab sessions
  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • Workshops
  • Problem classes

 

 

For a typical core module the examination carries a weight of 80%, the remaining 20% usually being allocated for regular coursework and workshop assignments throughout the year.

Experimental and other practical work is continually assessed through laboratory notebooks and formal reports.

Assessment methods

  • Coursework
  • Group project
  • Lab reports
  • Written exam
  • Research project

Typically in the first year, there are 10 lectures per week with associated problem sheets and directed reading. Some modules are supplemented by additional workshops where you will have the opportunity to put your learning into practice.

You will take part in weekly small group tutorials (typically five students), where your tutor will provide support and guidance. The practical module involves working three hours per week in laboratories. Subsequent years will vary with the largest change being fewer group tutorials but more time spent in laboratories and workshops.

Studying advanced physics will enable you to become more adaptable and better at problem solving. These are invaluable traits for any career. Our students go on to work in a variety of industries, including engineering, aerospace, IT, and finance, as well as academic research. Others use their training in communication skills to enter teaching or science communication careers.

Employers of our graduates include Accenture, BBC, EDF Energy, Jaguar Land Rover, and various NHS Trusts. Roles include Trainee Clinical Scientist, Medical Physicist, Systems Engineer, Data Analyst and Software Development Engineer.

The student-centred nature of the fourth year will give you additional experience in communication, group work, and project management.

Average starting salary and career progression

86.40% of undergraduates from the Faculty of Science secured employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £27,834.

HESA Graduate Outcomes (2017-2021 cohorts). The Graduate Outcomes % is calculated using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.

Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.

Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.

Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.

The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2020, High Fliers Research).

University undergraduate student studying in Nightingale Hall accommodation's library, University Park

In the summer of 2017 during my degree, I had a 12 week summer internship with the defence and aerospace company BAE Systems. I graduated in July 2018, and started my new role at BAE Systems in September that year. A physics degree teaches you to have a strong mathematical and logical grounding. This in turn gives you the ability to approach complex problems in a certain way, and therefore means you can solve them efficiently and effectively. "

Jake

MSci Physics graduate

Course data

Open Day June 2022