MPyhs (Hons) Physics

at University of St Andrews

Modules
In the first two years of your degree (known as sub-honours), you will take the required modules in physics and mathematics, with the possibility of modules in another subject as well.

Typically, you will take one or two physics modules per semester during your first two years, and four to five modules per semester during your third, fourth and fifth year (known as Honours).

Find out more about the modular Scottish degree system.

First year
Students are required to take the following compulsory modules in their first year:

• Physics 1A: covers the core elements of mechanics, waves and optics, and the physical properties of matter, including laboratory skills.
• Physics 1B: covers an introduction to quantum physics, the mechanics of rotation and gravity, and lasers, including laboratory skills.
• Mathematics: introduces the ideas and techniques required for further study of mathematics or applications to other sciences.

Second year

Students are required to take the following compulsory modules in their second year:

• Physics 2A: covers mechanics, special relativity, oscillations and thermal physics, including laboratory skills.
• Physics 2B: covers quantum physics, electricity, magnetism and classical waves, including laboratory skills.
• Linear Mathematics: introduces the theory of vector spaces, linear independence, linear transformations and diagonalisation.
• Multivariate Calculus: extends the techniques of calculus in a single variable to the setting of real functions of several variables.

These grades are the overall standards required to consider you for entry. Find out more about Standard, Minimum and Gateway entry requirements using academic entry explained and see which entry requirements you need to look at using the entry requirements indicator.

• Home-funded  -  £1820
• RUK (England, Wales, Northern Ireland) and Republic of Ireland  -  £9250
• Islands (Channel Islands, Isle of Man)  -  £9250
• EU and overseas  -  £26350

Graduates from the School enjoy a range of career options. Some use their physics knowledge and skills every day, for example, in research and development. Others use the more general problem solving, programming and mathematical skills developed in the course in finance and management careers.

At the end of your degree, you will be equipped with the following skills that are valued in a wide range of occupations:

• the ability to determine what information is needed to solve a problem, and a knowledge of where to find or generate such information
• applicable mathematical and computational techniques and where to use them
• knowledge and understanding of fundamental physical laws and principles
• the ability to analyse data and evaluate the level of uncertainty in results
• skills to identify relevant principles and laws of physics when dealing with problems
• communication skills including the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.