MSc Physics

Why Surrey?
Our Physics MSc enables you to obtain a postgraduate qualification in Physics by following a customised programme of taught modules tailored specifically, in agreement with the Programme Director, to suit your interests and previous knowledge.

Programme overview
The MSc Physics is a one year (90 ECTS credits) programme.

Students select eight modules (one taught compulsory module and seven optional taught modules) from a wide range of fundamental and applied physics topics, offered in the first year from the Department of Physics’ internationally-respected fundamental physics taught provision, as well as from the vocationally-oriented MSc programmes. Students tailor their study programme to suit their interests and needs in discussion with the Course Director (and subject to timetabling). The skills learnt are then used and applied during the summer, when you will undertake an eleven-week research project. The project may be undertaken in collaboration with an external partner organisation, which might be an industrial company or a national or international research facility such as the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.

Research projects can open the door to many careers, not just further research, and will give you tangible experience of working independently and communicating your work effectively and efficiently in written form, which are key requirements in many professions.

Why not discover more about our programme in our video?

Scholarships for this MSc programme

Teaching Assistantships (up to £3,000pa)
Our department-led scholarships enable you to assist with the teaching of Physics undergraduate students through laboratory sessions, tutorials, problem-solving classes, computing and other teaching activities depending on suitability. Open to home or international, full-time or part-time students, the University of Surrey gives out approximately six of these awards per annum. The Teaching Assistantship award is available on all MSc Physics programmes, and if successful, you can earn up to £3,000 throughout the year. Eligible MSc applicants will be sent an application form by email in August 2015 and the application procedure includes an interview (which can be completed by telephone).

Programme structure
The Physics MSc consists of one taught compulsory module (below) and seven optional taught modules from a wide selection. The dissertation project is undertaken in the summer.

Compulsory modules:

- Research Skills

Research project and dissertation:

You will carry out independent research that demonstrates an advanced level of knowledge and understanding in the field of study. Under the guidance of your academic supervisor, you will design and manage a programme of research, embedded within the discipline context and through this, be able to demonstrate well-developed written, numerical, and analytical skills.

Optional modules:

- Radiation Physics
- Radiation Measurement
- Radiation Laboratory Skills
- Introduction to Radiation Biology
- Non Linear Physics
- Topics in Theoretical Physics
- Imaging and Remote Sensing
- Non-ionising Radiation Imaging
- Therapy Physics
- Diagnostic Applications of Ionising Radiation Physics
- Radiation Protection
- Nuclear Power and Non-ionising Radiation
- Environmental Physics and Environmental Protection
- Extended group project

Entry requirements
A minimum 2.2 honours degree (or overseas equivalent) in the physical sciences or in a relevant engineering discipline. For direct entry to the second year, students are required to have achieved the equivalent of a Postgraduate Diploma in Physics (120 credits at Level M). Applicants with suitable industrial experience will also be considered.

How to apply
For more information on the course and how to apply please visit the course website.

General enquiries:
+44 (0)1483 681 681

Admissions enquiries:
+44 (0)1483 682 222
admissions@surrey.ac.uk