Fundamentals of Physics A
Undergraduate
BSc (Hons)
Physics
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Attendance
Full-time
With placement
Course
Three year
Four year
Next enrolment
September 2021
In a nutshell
Physics underpins everyday life, from the structure of the universe to the smartphone in your hand. A BSc Physics degree at Salford will put you in position for a career where you can discover the next scientific breakthroughs and innovations.
Career-focused
BSc Physics at Salford is accredited by the Institute of Physics. The course will provide you with advanced subject knowledge so that you are ready to build a career in teaching, research or industry. Delivered over three years – or four with an industry placement year - you will study a suite of modules designed to help you become a future world-class physicist.
Supportive learning
Studying Physics is rewarding but it can be challenging. We use small group teaching so that you feel supported and able to ask the questions that satisfy your enquiring mind. In the NSS 2020 survey, our Physics courses received 90% overall satisfaction [University of Salford analysis of unpublished NSS 2020 data].
Knowledge-building
As you experience engaging tutorial and laboratory activities, you will develop a greater understanding of waves, and properties of matter. You will build advanced knowledge in fields of nuclear and particle physics. As you progress, you can add specialisms in acoustics or nanotechnology.
You will:
- Explore physics fundamentals, including classical dynamics, static and dynamic charges, quantum mechanics, fundamentals of relativity and atomic and nuclear physics
- Expand your knowledge and systematic understanding in quantum mechanics of atoms, molecules and solids, including the origin and limitations of the associated laws
- Understand the laws of physics that govern the behaviour of all systems, with application in modern technologies
- Experience computer laboratory sessions and learn the importance of mathematics in a quantitative description of physics, using symbolic computing and programming
- Develop skills desired by industry and academia, including team working, problem solving, communication and presentation skills
Placement
options available
International
students accepted
Course accreditations
This is for you if...
1.
You’re excited about mathematics and physics with a strong academic background that you want to take into higher education
2.
You’re a problem-solver with an enquiring mind and a fascination about the world around you
3.
You want to take your interest in physics into your future career, whether that is in industry, teaching or research
All about the course
BSc (Hons) Physics is built around a core of compulsory modules that give you a thorough grounding in physics. The course combines a fundamental understanding of the laws of physics that govern the behaviour of systems of all sizes, alongside an understanding of their applications in modern industry.
Developing applied knowledge and skills is at the heart of Salford’s values, so we embed this as a core learning objective.
- In year one, you will explore the whole breadth of physics, including classical physics, quantum physics, particle physics, and relativity. You will study mathematical techniques and use computers to solve problems.
- As you progress to year two, you will develop a deeper understanding of physics specialisms, such as classical and quantum waves, and properties of matter. You’ll also complete a group project where you will build and demonstrate a piece of physics-related equipment.
- In your final year, you will study advanced topics including quantum mechanics of atoms, molecules, nuclear physics, relativity, electromagnetic theory, and wave optics. You will also demonstrate and apply the knowledge and skills you have developed during your studies in your final research-based project.
INDUSTRY PLACEMENTS
Placements are a great way to expand you knowledge and apply theory to real-life practice. On this course, you'll have the option to take an industrial placement year between year two and three. Although you'll be responsible for securing your placement, a tutor will support you, monitor your progress and assess your final placement report. Industry placements have a number of benefits. You can improve your employment prospects after graduation, see physics in action and receive a salary. Evidence suggests that many of our students who choose an industry placement year improve their final degree classification.
Year one
Delivered through lectures, problem-based learning and laboratory sessions, in this module you will be introduced to the following subjects: classical dynamics, static and dynamic charges, fundamentals of quantum mechanics, fundamentals of relativity and atomic and nuclear physics.
Fundamentals of Physics B
Delivered through key note lectures, tutorial and problem-based learning classes and practical laboratory sessions, in this module you will be introduced to the following subjects: thermodynamics, microscopic and macroscopic properties of matter, fundamentals of waves and geometrical optics and wave optics.
Fundamentals of Physics C
In this module you will develop the knowledge and understanding in the area of Electricity, Electronics, Optics and Optoelectronics including the origin and limitations of the associated laws. You will also develop analytical, numerical and computer based problem solving skills in the above areas. This module will also develop your practical laboratory skills.
Mathematics and Computing
Building on the subject knowledge from the Mathematics module you will further you knowledge of differential equations and series with emphasis on their applications to physics and develop your awareness of the importance of mathematics in a quantitative description of physics. You will be introduced to the use of spreadsheets, computing programming and symbolic computing.
Mathematics
An understanding and ability to use mathematics are essential skills for success in physics this module will review A level mathematics covering the following subjects: algebra, trigonometry, functions, geometry, vectors, complex numbers and calculus, with emphasis on their applications to physics.
Frontiers of Physics and Entrepreneurial Skills
Being able to apply your scientific knowledge and thinking to unfamiliar problems is a key skill for success in industry and research. By introducing you to this skill, along with other important skills identified by our industrial and academic partners, they will become second nature, giving you a head start in your chosen career.
Year two
Classical and Quantum Waves
You will develop a knowledge and critical understanding in the area of classical and quantum waves including the origin and limitations of the associated laws. You will also gain analytical and numerical problem solving skills in this topic.
Computing Laboratory
The Computing Laboratory module will help you build computer programming skills, so you can tackle simple non-analytic physical and engineering problems. You will use the numerical methods and techniques frequently encountered in physical and engineering challenges, and learn how to implement these them on the computer. You will also learn about interfacing sensors to computers and computer control of experiments.
Physics Laboratory
Gain breadth and depth in experimental techniques in the Physics laboratory. You will strengthen you knowledge and analytical technique around the physical principles associated with electrons and physics. You will develop your team-work skills within the context of project-based experiments and acquire effective and impactful report writing skills.
Mathematical Methods and Applications
In this module you will develop a knowledge and critical understanding in the area of Mathematics Methods for Physics including the origin and limitations of the associated laws. You will also develop analytical, numerical and computer based problem solving skills in the area of Mathematical Methods for Physics.
Properties of Matter
Through this module you will develop a knowledge and critical understanding in the area of the properties of matter including the origin and limitations of the associated laws. You will also develop analytical and numerical problem solving skills in the area of the properties of matter.
Plus one module from below:
Principles of Acoustics
You will build on your knowledge and skills from the Introduction to acoustics module, to give you a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of acoustics. Subjects include: Fourier's theorem, solutions of 1-D wave equation, acoustic impedance, reflection factor and absorption coefficient, 3-D wave equation, radiation impedance, and behaviour of sound in 3D enclosures.
Physics Universe: Introduction to Astrophysics
Gain knowledge and critical understanding of astrophysics including the origin and limitations of the associated laws.
University Wide Language Programme
Choose to study a world language in a friendly, supportive environment. Delivered over two semesters, with additional resources available via Blackboard, you will receive around 50 hours of supported learning to help you progress and consolidate your listening, reading, speaking and writing core skills. Available languages include Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.
Year three
Maxwell's Equat and Wave Optics
You will develop a knowledge and systematic understanding in the area of Maxwell’s Equations and Wave Optics, including the origin and limitations of the associated laws. You will also develop expertise in analytical, numerical and computer based problem solving skills in the area of Maxwell’s Equations and Wave Optics.
Project in Physics
This project will allow you to carry out a research or development project individually, under the guidance of a personal supervisor.
Nuclear and Particle Physics
You will receive an overview of Nuclear Physics and gain an understanding of nuclear stability in terms of the Liquid Drop Model and of nuclear reactions involving neutrons, protons, electrons and neutrinos, and major experimental techniques and practical applications. The particle physics element will cover the basic discoveries of modern Particle Physics and introduce the ideas of Grand Unified Theory.
Quantum Mechanics Atoms Mole and Solid
Develop your knowledge and systematic understanding in quantum mechanics of atoms, molecules and solids including the origin and limitations of the associated laws. You will develop expertise in analytical, numerical and computer based problem solving skills in quantum mechanics of atoms, molecules and solids.
Plus one module from below:
Theoretical Physics
You will develop a knowledge and systematic understanding in the area of Theoretical Physics, including the origin and limitations of the associated laws.
Photonics and Nanotechnology
This module will enable you to develop a knowledge and systematic understanding in the area of Photonics and Nanotechnology including the origin and limitations of the associated laws.
Speech and Musical Acoustics
You will be introduced to speech production and modelling, speech analysis and synthesis with particular reference to the application of speech technology in modern communication devices. You will develop a systematic understanding of human perception of sound and its application in a musical context.
University Wide Language Programme
Choose to study a world language in a friendly, supportive environment. Delivered over two semesters, with additional resources available via Blackboard, you will receive around 50 hours of supported learning to help you progress and consolidate your listening, reading, speaking and writing core skills. Available languages include Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENT
Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our degree courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers and industry leaders.
Driven by industry, and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to become unstoppable in your career.
Facilities
You will experience a modern learning environment, enriched with accessible lecture theatres and AV-equipped classrooms, computing suites and multimedia libraries, with access to industry journals, databases, and simulation software.
As a physics student, you will use our specialist laboratories for electronics, optics, lasers, computing and composite materials. The Joule Physics Laboratories include a purpose-built suite of large, open-space teaching laboratories.
What about after uni?
EMPLOYMENT
As a Salford physics graduate, you'll have no shortage of exciting career options. Due to the analytical and problem-solving nature of physics, this degree opens up a wide range of career pathways.
Previous Salford physics graduates have secured roles in a diverse range of sectors, including medical physics, defense, finance, research, education, engineering and the nuclear industry.
FURTHER STUDY
You might find you want to learn more about physics and related subjects, so we offer a range of specialism postgraduate study options to help you take your career and interests even further. Salford graduates and alumni also receive a significant fees discount.
Career Links
We work with a range of organisations to ensure the course content remains relevant, but they also contribute annual seminars, research project opportunities and work placements. Recent organisations include:
Atkins Global, Technium OpTIC, Pilkington, Nuvia, Royal Navy, Astrium, BPD Acoustics, Nanoco Technologies, Salford Royal Hospital, BAE Systems, Centre for Alternative Technology, IOP (Institute of Physics) Publishing, NPower, Serco and TDA (Training and Development Agency for Schools).
These organisations add value to the course by sharing industrial skills and knowledge with you from the very start of your degree.
What you need to know
APPLICANT PROFILE
This course is designed for someone who is passionate about physics and science in general. We're looking for applicants with an aptitude for mathematics and problem-solving.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0, with no band below 5.5, is proof of this.
Please note: The entry criteria below are related to entry onto this course in the 2021/22 academic year.
Standard entry requirements
GCSE
English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below
UCAS tariff points
104-112 points including Mathematics and Physics
A Level
104-112 points
BTEC National Diploma
DMM in Engineering or Science
BTEC Higher National Diploma
DMM in Engineering or Science
Foundation Degree
104-112 points
Scottish Highers
104-112 points; Advanced Higher Mathematics at grade C and Physics at grade C; Higher CSYS Mathematics and Physics also required
Irish Leaving Certificate
104-112 points including Physics, Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Higher Level
European Baccalaureate
Pass in Diploma of at least 60% from Science or Engineering
International Baccalaureate
30 Points to include Grade 5 in Physics and Maths at Higher Level
Access to HE
QAA Approved - Pass with 104-112 UCAS points including Engineering or Science.
Other Qualifications
104-112 points
Alternative entry requirements
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
We positively welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we receive your application, we'll assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.
To be considered for the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme you must have already achieved or be working towards GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4 (or equivalent).
Please contact Admissions for further information.
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2021/22 | £9,250per year |
| Full-time international | 2021/22 | £15,600per year |
| Part-time | 2021/22 | Your annual fee will be calculated pro rata to the full-time fee according to the number of credits you are studying. |
Additional costs
You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
Scholarships for international students
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships.
We have a range of scholarships available for students applying for courses in 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. Our Global Gold Excellence Scholarship is worth £3,500 and our Global Silver Excellence Scholarship is worth £3,000 - both are available for students studying in our 2021/22 intakes.
We also offer the Salford International Excellence Scholarship which offers up to £5,000 discount on tuition fees. As this is a prestigious award we have a limited number of these scholarships available.
See the full range of our International Scholarships.
Interested in starting university in September 2021? Book your place on our next Open Day.