Queen Mary, University of London Physics Undergraduate 2010

Queen Mary, University of LondonDepartment of PhysicsUndergraduate Studies

www.ph.qmul.ac.uk

Contents

Introduction 04

Queen Mary, University of London 05

Studying at the Department of Physics 06

Degree programmes 07• BSc/MSci Physics (F300/F303)

• BSc/MSci Astrophysics (F526/F523)

• BSc/MSci Theoretical Physics (F340/F323)

• BSc/MSci Physics with Particle Physics(F392/F393)

Modules in the Department of Physics 15

Entry requirements 16

The Science and Engineering Foundation Programme 17

Departmental facilities and support 18

Graduate opportunities 19

Frequently Asked Questions 20

Next steps 21

Living in London 22

The information given in this brochure is correct at the time of goingto press. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel anystatement in it and accepts no responsibility for the consequences ofany such changes.

We also offer financial support, with agenerous scholarships programme thatawards £3000 per annum to high achievingstudents. I encourage you to read more aboutour scholarships on page 18.

You will be taught by academics active inground-breaking fundamental research andby the end of your degree will have attainednot only knowledge of modern physics, buthigh level analytical, problem-solving andresearch skills. These will open up continuingcareer opportunities across a spectrum frompostgraduate research to diverse careers inbusiness. In addition to undergraduatemodules during the academic year, weprovide opportunities for paid summerresearch internships within our researchcentres, as well as in a range of otheruniversities, plus a wide variety of paidsummer employer placements. OurDepartment is a partner in the South EastPhysics Network (www.sepnet.ac.uk), which supports many of these initiatives.

More than half of our students are fromoutside London, and the rest spread acrossall areas of Greater London. Students maychoose to live at home, or in sharedaccommodation according to need. Queen

Mary is a genuine campus university, andmany students take advantage of theaccommodation in our award-winningStudent Village, which has over 1200 rooms.Here all undergraduates have access tonumerous cafes and restaurants, theStudents’ Union, with a wide variety of clubsand events, the new QMotion gym, as well asstudy areas and library facilities equippedwith computers or wireless access. You canread more about the facilities on campus andin the department on page 18.

Our reputation is built on the quality of ourgraduates, and whatever their choice ofdegree programme, career aims, or otherinterests, our graduates have reported highlevels of satisfaction with our teaching andsupport, and have gone on to buildsuccessful careers in many professions.Should you enrol at Queen Mary I have every confidence that you would join them.

Professor William J Spence Head of Department

The Physics Department atQueen Mary maintains along tradition of excellencein research in ground-breaking fields, combinedwith a commitment tomaintaining the higheststandards of studenteducation, giving ourgraduates the best possiblepreparation for theirchosen careers.Research in the Department is focussed inresearch centres in high-energy particlephysics, condensed matter physics andtheoretical physics. In addition we have veryclose teaching and research links with theAstronomy Unit in the School ofMathematical Sciences. All of these groupscontribute to teaching on our degreeprogrammes, which cover the key areas ofPhysics, Particle Physics, Astrophysics andTheoretical Physics, all at BSc or MSci level.In the following section you will find detaileddescriptions of the programmes we offer,which are all accredited by the Institute ofPhysics. Opportunities for Study Abroad arealso available in all programmes.

The reputation of the department and Collegeis reflected in the prestigious ShanghaiJiatong university rankings which placed thedepartment 8th in the UK and also by TheGuardian which ranked the department 7th in the UK. In the UK Government’s latest Research Assessment Exercise theCollege was placed 11th (The Guardian).

We have dedicated support staff, covering allacademic and pastoral areas, to help andadvise you during your time at university.Studying at university is an opportunity and a challenge, and can be a very rewardingexperience both intellectually and personally.We are committed to helping you to benefit asmuch as possible during your time with us.

Introduction

4 Queen Mary, University of London


As a member of the 1994 Group of research-focused universities, Queen Mary has made astrategic commitment to the highest quality ofresearch. Indeed, we believe that a vibrantresearch environment means that ourstudents have access to the world's leadingexperts in their chosen subjects.

We have invested in this principle through a systematic programme of recruiting toQueen Mary the best academic staff in theirdisciplines from around the world. We areinterested in academics at the peak of theircareers who have made a substantialcommitment to their field, as well as thosewho show promise. This creates an inspiringand dynamic atmosphere designed tointellectually awaken undergraduates in theirfirst in-depth study of their chosen field.

Queen Mary is one of the UK’s topuniversities, ranked 11th nationally out of132 universities in the official 2008 ResearchAssessment Exercise (Guardian).

Queen Mary has been ranked in the top 20 universities in England according to The Times Higher Education 2009 WorldRankings and graduates are in the top 10for the highest starting salaries accordingto The Sunday Times.

The College made extensive preparations to achieve the best possible profile in RAE2008. All three sectors of the College(Humanities and Social Sciences, the Schoolof Medicine and Dentistry, Science andEngineering) have shown significant growthand development across all areas of researchactivity. This is based on numbers ofpostgraduate students, researchassistants,post-doctoral research fellows and research grants. The full results areavailable online at: www.qmul.ac.uk/RAE

One of the UK’s leadingresearch-focuseduniversities, Queen Mary,University of London is an inspiring place to work and study

Among the three largest of the colleges of theUniversity of London, Queen Mary's 3,000staff deliver world class degree programmesand research across a wide range of subjectsin Humanities, Social Sciences and Laws, inMedicine and Dentistry and in Science andEngineering.

With a budget of over £220 million perannum and a yearly economic impact on theUK economy of over £600 million, QueenMary offers a vibrant and intellectuallystimulating environment to its 15,000students.

The 2009 National Student Survey showedoverall high levels of satisfaction amongQueen Mary students (average 86.5 per cent)and in the Department of Physics ninety-three per cent of students were satisfied with the quality of the course. Queen Maryalso won the prestigious ‘Most ImprovedStudent Experience of the Year’ award in The Times Higher Education Awards 2009

All of our academic staff are engaged invaluable research – bringing benefits to their chosen field of expertise, as well as the students with whom they share the fruit of their knowledge.

A university is, by its very essence, a placededicated to learning, and everything we doreflects that reality. This focus enables staffand students alike to realise their fullpotential. For each generation of students,this means being well-prepared for futuresuccess; and for staff, being supported intheir valuable and ongoing research activity.

Queen Mary, University of LondonLondon’s only campus-based university

In the final year of the MSci you will have theopportunity to take modules selected from a large range of current research topics in physics. This year is taught as anintercollegiate year and you will be able to take modules taught by lecturers fromColleges throughout the University of London.

Study abroadQueen Mary students can take part in aninternational exchange programme spendingeither the autumn semester or full academicyear at one of our partner institutions. Theacademic work completed abroad is creditedtowards your Queen Mary degree. Tuitionfees will still be paid to Queen Mary for yourperiod abroad and you do not have to paytuition fees at the host institution but you arestill responsible for all travel, accommodationand living expenses. Full eligibility details and other conditions for participation in thisprogramme are laid out on our website:www.qmul.ac.uk/qmlearning/exchanges

Our partner universities with physicsspecialities are:• Hunter College (City University of New York)

• University of Miami

• University of Richmond

• University of California (with severalcampuses and different specialities)

It is also possible to study in Europe within the Erasmus programme. This presents a great opportunity for students to immersethemselves in the language, lifestyle andculture of another country. Students areselected by their Department at Queen Maryand the criteria for selection includeacademic ability, proficiency in the languageof the host country and the desire toparticipate in an exchange. The LanguageLearning Unit provides courses to givestudents practical skills in a foreign languageand help prepare them for the exchange.Students are given credit for courses passedat the host institution. More information canbe found on the British Council website:www.britishcouncil.org/erasmus.htm

Entry requirementsFor our BSc programmes we ask for 300UCAS points, including a grade B in physicsand mathematics. Our MSci requirementsare 340 UCAS points and a grade A and B in physics and mathematics in any order. We accept a wide variety of qualifications and detailed entry requirements can befound on page 16.

Fiona Crawley, 1st year undergraduate: In a typical day we will usually have amixture of lectures and exercise classes or tutorials. This is good as it gives a nicevariation to the day. In general we onlyhave about 4 hours of class a day, spreadout between 9 and 5. This gives you achance to get coursework done, to askquestions and to socialise. I find that youmake friends best during the day whenyou are trying to get your coursework done in the physics museum.

“A lecture is where you acquire theknowledge to answer the questions givenin the tutorial. The tutorial is also smaller,around 20 people who you know well, so you can ask questions and it is morepersonal. I find tutorials really useful asthey allow you to apply the knowledgeacquired in lectures and there is no fear of getting it wrong as tutorials are meant to help you learn.

Degree structureYour studying is arranged so that you take eight different modules in each academicyear. You are required to take four in eachsemester. Semester A runs from Septemberto December and Semester B runs fromJanuary until April.

Generally for each module you will have threeor four hours of lectures per week and one ortwo hours of tutorials or exercise classes. Ifyou are taking a practical module, such asScientific Measurement in the first year, youwill spend two afternoons a week in ourundergraduate laboratory.

Our degrees are structured so that you take a number of compulsory modules. Theseensure that you graduate with the requisiteknowledge of Physics as a subject. Thecompulsory modules in the first year arecommon across all degree programmes.From second year onwards, programmesdiverge and you have a number of optionsavailable. The exact number of options will depend on your degree programme. For example, if you have applied to studyAstrophysics you will have less choice thansomeone studying Physics, as there are anumber of Astrophysics modules that youneed to take to meet the requirements of thedegree. A full outline of the structure of eachof our degrees programmes can be found inthe following pages. A fuller description ofsome of the modules on offer is on page 15.

BSc/MSciYou will notice that we offer two differenttypes of qualification: BSc or MSci. The BSctakes 3 years to complete whilst the MScitakes 4 years. An MSci will provide you with more advanced training and projectexperience which could lead to a PhD orprovide you with an advantage if you wish toenter a career at a higher level. The BSc andMSci courses have common programmesand options over the first two years andtransfer between the programmes is possibleduring this time, subject to satisfactoryperformance.

Studying at the Department of Physics


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Degree programmesPhysics

Aimei Lam 2nd Year BSc Physics:Electric & Magnetic Fields is my favouritemodule, because the lecturer makes surethat you understand everything beforemoving on to the next topic and they also make it interesting to study.“”

PhysicsThe range of research in our department reflects the breadth of this subject: fromunderstanding the most basic building blocks in our universe through particle physics, tobuilding structures and manipulating matter on a molecular scale with condensed matterphysics to understanding the formation of stars and galaxies. A degree in physics gives youknowledge of theories, techniques and mathematical approaches which can be applied inmany different careers (see page 19 for information on what our graduates go on to do).

BSc Physics – F300 (three years)

1st Year 2nd Year 3rd Year

Compulsory modulesScientific Measurement

Condensed Matter

From Newton to Einstein

Mathematical Techniques 1


Electric and Magnetic Fields

Quantum Physics

Suggested modulesOur Universe

Compulsory modulesThermal and KineticPhysics

Vibrations and Waves

Nuclear Physics and Astrophysics

Physics Laboratory

Electromagnetic Waves and Optics

Quantum Mechanics A

Suggested modulesMathematical Techniques 3

Condensed Matter 2

Physics of Energy and theEnvironment

Physical Dynamics

Planetary Systems

Compulsory modulesSynoptic Physics

Statistical Physics

Elementary Particle Physics

Space Time and Gravity

Quantum Mechanics B

Extended IndependentProject (2 modules)

Suggested modulesModern Computation and Physical Science

Physics of Galaxies

Quantum Mechanics B

Solid State Physics

Stars

Quantum Mechanics and Symmetry

Degree programmesPhysics


MSci Physics – F303 (four years)

1st Year 2nd Year 3rd Year 4th Year

Compulsory modules

Scientific Measurement

Condensed Matter






Compulsory modulesThermal and Kinetic Physics



Physics Laboratory


Quantum Mechanics A

Suggested modulesSpace Time and Gravity


Modern Computation in PhysicalScience

Condensed Matter 2

Physics of Energy and the Environment

Compulsory modulesSynoptic Physics

Quantum Mechanics B

Solid State Physics

Physics Review Project

Quantum Mechanics andSymmetry

Statistical Physics


Suggested modulesCondensed Matter 2

Physical Dynamics

Compulsory modulesPhysics Investigative Project OR

Physics Research Project (2modules)

Suggested modulesPlus six modules, examplesinclude:

Plasma Physics

Atom and Photon Physics

Low Temperature Physics andNanotechnology

Electromagnetic Theory

Advanced Quantum Theory

Electrons in Solids


Degree programmesAstrophysics

AstrophysicsThere are lots of questions about the origin and evolution of the universe that we do not have answers to yet. However, Astrophysics can help usinvestigate our surroundings by applying our knowledge of physics and mathematics to the observations of stars, galaxies and planets. Thisallows us to investigate how old we think the universe is, how and why it is expanding, how the planets formed and if there is potential for life onother planets.

BSc Astrophysics – F526 (three years)



Condensed Matter



Our Universe



Quantum Physics



Planetary Systems


Stars


Quantum Mechanics A

Suggested modulesPhysics Laboratory

Condensed Matter 2


Physical Dynamics

Compulsory modulesSpace Time and Gravity

Synoptic Physics

Physics of Galaxies

Statistical Physics


Suggested modulesModern Computation in Physical Science

Quantum Mechanics B


Mathematical Aspects of Cosmology

Degree programmesAstrophysics


MSci Astrophysics – F523 (four years)



Condensed Matter



Our Universe



Quantum Physics




Planetary Systems

Nuclear Physics andAstrophysics

Stars

Electromagnetic Waves andOptics

Quantum Mechanics A


Condensed Matter 2


Physical Dynamics


Synoptic Physics

Physics of Galaxies


Statistical Physics

Suggested modulesModern Computation in PhysicalScience

Quantum Mechanics B

Solid State Physics

Physical Dynamics


Compulsory modulesPhysics Investigative Project OR

Physics Research Project

Suggested modulesPlus six MSci modules includingat least two from:

Extrasolar planets andAstrophysical Discs

Galaxy and Cluster Dynamics

Astrophysical Plasmas

Solar System

Planetary Atmospheres

Mathematics Aspects ofCosmology

Space Plasmas andMagnetospheric Physics

Solar Physics


Degree programmesTheoretical Physics

Theoretical PhysicsThe most fundamental questions about the universe are examined using the tools of theoreticalphysics. What is the origin of mass? What is dark matter? Do more than four dimensions exist?These kinds of questions can be considered by examining current theories, identifying theirweaknesses and proposing new solutions. Investigations by members of the Centre for Researchin String Theory are having an impact on areas such as particle physics: Twistor String Theory isgiving us a new simplified understanding of particle scattering in the Large Hadron Collider.

BSc Theoretical Physics – F340 (three years)



Condensed Matter





Quantum Physics







Physical Dynamics

Quantum Mechanics A


Condensed Matter 2



Synoptic Physics

Quantum Mechanics B

Statistical Physics



Suggested modulesPhysics of Galaxies


Mathematical Aspects of Cosmology

Asmi Barot, 2nd year Theoretical Physicsundergraduate:My favourite module isQuantum Physics, which I did in my firstyear and Quantum Mechanics which I amcurrently studying. Quantum Mechanicsis a more detailed version of QuantumPhysics. I would say that these are myfavourite modules because you learn about interesting concepts like theHeisenberg Uncertainty Principle and The Schroedinger Equation. Also, I lovemaths and these modules really developyour skills in mathematics. In addition, the lecturers are great!

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Degree programmesTheoretical Physics


MSci Theoretical Physics – F323 (four years)


Compulsory modules

Scientific Measurement

Condensed Matter





Quantum Physics






Electromagnetic Waves andOptics

Physical Dynamics

Quantum Mechanics A


Condensed Matter 2



Synoptic Physics

Quantum Mechanics B



Statistical Physics


Suggested modulesPhysics of Galaxies


Mathematical Aspects ofCosmology

Compulsory modulesRelativistic Waves and QuantumFields

Statistical Mechanics


Advanced Quantum Theory

Physics Investigative Project OR

Physics Research Project

Suggested modulesPlus further MSci coursestotalling 8 modules


Degree programmesPhysics with Particle Physics

Physics with Particle PhysicsUnderstanding what the universe is made from and how the particles interact is the goal ofparticle physics research. We can design, build and analyse data from leading experimentsworldwide to help achieve this. Specialist modules have been designed specifically for thisdegree programme and your research project will be with an academic member of staff fromthe Particle Physics Research Centre, so you could find yourself working on experimentalresults from the ATLAS experiment in CERN or the T2K experiment sited in Japan.

BSci Physics with Particle Physics – F392 (three years)



Condensed Matter





Quantum Physics


Introductory JavaProgramming




Modern Computation in Physical Science


Quantum Mechanics A

Physics Laboratory

Suggested modulesPhysical Dynamics

Stars

Condensed Matter 2

Physics of Energy andthe Environment

Compulsory modulesExtended IndependentProject

Synoptic Physics

Quantum Mechanics B

Statistical Data Analysis

Statistical Physics




Physics of Galaxies

Solid State Physics


Degree programmesPhysics with Particle Physics


MSci Physics with Particle Physics – F393 (four years)



Condensed Matter





Quantum Physics


Introductory JavaProgramming




Modern Computation in PhysicalScience


Quantum Mechanics A

Physics Laboratory

Suggested modulesPhysical Dynamics

Stars

Condensed Matter 2


Compulsory modulesExtended Independent Project

Synoptic Physics

Quantum Mechanics B

Statistical Data Analysis

Statistical Physics




Physics of Galaxies

Solid State Physics


Compulsory modulesPhysics Research Project

Particle Physics

Particle Accelerator Physics

Relativistic Waves and Quantum Fields

Suggested modulesAdvanced Quantum Theory






Modules in the Department of Physics

Our modular degreestructure means that youhave a choice of whichmodules to take alongsidethe compulsory modulesfor your degreeprogramme. These can be modules in the Department ofPhysics, as well as from other Schools, forexample, a language. You will need to haveyour module choices approved as well asmake sure there are no timetable clashes.

The Physics modules detailed on this pageare a selection of what is available – not acomplete list.

Electric and Magnetic FieldsThis is an introduction to the basic laws ofelectricity and magnetism, including Maxwell’sequations. By the end of the module you willbe able to mathematically state the laws, whilstalso be able to explain and apply the laws tosolve a variety of problems.

Electromagnetic Waves and OpticsA triumph of Nineteenth-Century Physicswas the unification of the theories ofelectricity and magnetism. This module willgive you an understanding of Maxwell’sequations, the electromagnetic waveequation, diffraction, interference effectsand polarisation.

From Newton to EinsteinThis module reviews the developments inour understanding of the laws of space, timeand motion, from the seventeenth century tothe present day. Topics from Classicalmechanics include kinematics anddynamics, gravity and planetary orbits.Special relativity, length contraction and timedilation, General Relativity and Black Holesare covered in Relativistic Mechanics.

Modern Computation in Physical ScienceYou are introduced to C++, which is amodern general purpose programminglanguage. You will be trained in techniques

of modern scientific programming and basicobject oriented programming.

Nuclear Physics and AstrophysicsYou will be introduced to the concept of theatomic nucleus along with the various formsof radioactivity and their properties. Weexplore the possible decay modes(radioactive decay and fission) of the nucleiand learn how these properties help explainthe cosmological abundances of nuclides viathe Big Bang and Stellar Nucleo-synthesis.

Our UniverseThis module is intended to make you familiarwith the components which make up ouruniverse: from stars and planets to solarsystems and galaxies. The role of the knownlaws of physics in understandingobservations is investigated.

Physics Investigative ProjectThis project runs throughout the final twosemesters of your degree programme. Youwill be expected to study a problem inphysics and develop your design,experimental, computational and analyticalskills through independent study. You willproduce a final written report on your projectwhich could involve things such assimulating a physical process, carrying outexperiments to test a current hypothesis orbuilding a piece of equipment.

Physics LaboratoryThis practical course requires you to carryout experiments whilst maintaining a log ofyour work before producing two formalreports which will be marked alongside yourlog book. Examples of experiments whichhave run in the past include ‘Building aHelium- Neon Laser’ and ‘X-ray diffractionspectroscopy’.

Physics of GalaxiesThere are a variety of different types ofgalaxies and you will learn their categories andhow to estimate properties such as mass andluminosity. As well as exploring the propertiesof galaxies, you will also learn about theevolution of structure in the universe.

Physics Review ProjectYou will use scientific research literature toexamine a specialised area of physics. Thiswill be a combination of directed reading andindependent study. By the end of this projectyou will have investigated an area of physicsof interest to you to a deeper degree than isnormally possible in conventional modules.

Quantum PhysicsHere you will study the evidence for particle-like properties of waves and wave-likeproperties of particles. This is followed by astudy of their consequences and their formalexpression in physical law: topics includeHeisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle andSchroedinger’s equation.

Relativistic Waves and Quantum FieldsHere you will be given an introduction intothe unification of quantum mechanics andspecial relativity. You will review both of thesetopics before going on to investigate therelativistic wave equations and quantumfield theory.

Scientific MeasurementIn this module you will learn valuablelaboratory techniques and skills: frommeasurement techniques to data analysisand reporting; you will find all of these skillsnecessary to carry out experimentalinvestigations into concepts in physics.

Statistical PhysicsWe use this subject to help us to bridge thegap between microscopic quantummechanics and the behaviour of matter aswe observe it daily on a macroscopic scale.This module will teach you the theoreticalbasis of statistical physics. You will alsodevelop the valuable skill of usingspreadsheets to calculate and visualisecomplex algorithmic expressions.

Thermal and Kinetic PhysicsHere you will learn about the four Laws ofThermodynamics and their applications tophysical processes occurring in simplefluids, for example. You will also learn aboutheat engines, heat pumps and refrigeratorsand you will look into how the Second Lawlimits the efficiency of all engines.


Subjects and grades required: Overall DMM.Must have high physics and mathematicscontent.

InternationalBaccalaureateAcceptability: Acceptable on its own andcombined with other qualifications.

Subjects and grades required: BScprogrammes: 28 points overall with 6 in bothHL Physics and HL Mathematics.

MSci programmes: 32 points overall with 6 inboth HL Physics and HL Mathematics.

European BaccalaureateAcceptability: Acceptable on its own andcombined with other qualifications.

Subjects and grades required: BSc programmes: 65 per cent overall with 6in both Physics and Mathematics.

MSci programmes: 75 per cent overall with 7in Physics or Mathematics and 6 in Physicsor Mathematics.

Access to HE DiplomaCredits required: 60 credits, including at least45 at level 3

Grade required: Distinction

Additional Information:Must be Physics andMathematics based

Recognised by the Quality Assurance Agencyfor HE

European and internationalqualificationsThe University accepts a wide range of EUand International qualifications, forinformation please contact the AdmissionsOffice, or visit: www.qmul.ac.uk/international/countries

Other qualificationsThe College welcomes applications fromthose holding qualifications not listed above.Staff in the Admissions and RecruitmentOffice will be happy to advise you as to theacceptability of your qualification.

A/AS-levelsTariff/Grades Requirement:BSc programmes: applicants should aim toachieve grade Bs at A-level in both Physicsand Mathematics. We ask for a total of 300tariff points.

MSci programmes: applicants should aim toachieve grade A and grade B at A-level inPhysics and Mathematics in either order. We ask for a total of 340 tariff points.

If you do not perform as well in one subjectand do better in others, then that isacceptable, providing you gain the minimumnumber of points required for the degreeprogramme.

Additional information: General Studiesshould not be included in the tariff points.

Vocational or applied A-levelsAcceptability: Acceptable only whencombined with other A2-equivalent Physics and Mathematics qualifications.

Key SkillsResults of key skills tests may be offered but will not normally form part of the offer of a place.

BTEC National Certificate(12 units)Acceptability: Acceptable only whencombined with other A2-equivalent Physicsand Mathematics qualifications.

Subjects and grades required: Overall inDouble Award DD. Must have high Physicsand mathematics content.

BTEC National Diploma(18 units)Acceptability: Acceptable on its own andcombined with other A2-equivalent Physicsand Mathematics qualifications.

Entry requirements


programme with the first year providing athorough grounding and preparation for thesubsequent three years leading to a BSc(Honours) degree.

If you are interested in our FoundationProgramme you should apply for UCAS codeFFX3 for a BSc degree (this will take you 4years to complete) or FFY3 for an MScidegree (which will take 5 years to complete).

When you successfully complete the first yearof the SEFP, you will be awarded a certificateand be guaranteed entry to the normal firstyear of your chosen degree programme. Ifyou enter the programme intending to studyphysics or astrophysics, the Department ofPhysics will be your parent department,providing individual advice and tutoring.

SEFP entry requirementsUK applicants are normally expected to havea minimum of 180 - 200 UCAS points.International applicants must have theequivalent of a high school diploma, grade12, with science or mathematics to anadvanced level, as well as IELTS 5.0/TOEFL510/CB TOEFL 180.

Physics or AstronomyFoundation YearThe foundation programme has beendesigned for students who do not have thequalifications to enter science-basedprogrammes at university. It is a flexible,modular programme aiming to provide abroad education in mathematics and thesciences at a standard equivalent to A-level.

It will suit you if you: • Took arts A-levels but now wish to read for a

science degree

• Are from overseas and have not yetobtained qualifications to enter a Britishuniversity

• Took courses with insufficientphysics/mathematics

• Have already taken mathematics andscience A-levels but failed to attain thestandard for admission to university.

The SEFP is not an alternative A-level course.It is the first part of an integrated four-year

The Science and Engineering Foundation Programme

Curran Vora completed the foundation yearbefore pursuing a BSc degree in Physics:I found that the SEFP year allowed thetransition into real university life. I stronglyrecommend it to students who do not feelcomfortable in their current mathematicalor scientific abilities. Also, it is a goodperiod of time to adjust to the universitylifestyle and allows sufficient time to setgood goals for your degree.

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We have a departmental Facebook page tokeep students up to date with news and it is agood way for us to keep in touch with alumni,which benefits current students.

The Advice and Counselling Service cansupport you with any issues you may havewhilst at university. We also provide a numberof different services for our disabled anddyslexic students. www.welfare.qmul.ac.uk

Your AdviserWhen you begin your studies with us you willbe allocated an Adviser. This person is anacademic member of staff who will beresponsible for giving you advice on modulechoices and they will also meet with you todiscuss your progress. If you have any issueswhilst at university, your Adviser or the StudentSupport Officer should be your first point ofcontact. They can act on your behalf to find asolution to whatever your problem may be.

Undergraduate Teaching LaboratoriesOur undergraduate teaching laboratories haverecently been refurbished and contain a mainlab with 46 spacious work stations, two opticsrooms providing a further 11 work stationsand 4 specialist vibration free surfaces forsensitive experiment. The laboratories areopen access and we have two members ofstaff offering technical support for all physicsstudents during normal working hours. Eachwork station has a PC with internet access andhas an adjustable height function. It is a wellfunded resource with a mix of traditional andmodern equipment. The modules ScientificMeasurement and Physics Laboratory aretaught here.

ScholarshipsFor UK students we will award three £3000per annum scholarships to undergraduatesbased on a variety of criteria, including:

• Grade A is expected at Physics A-level

• Offered to students who place Queen Maryas firm choice

• Other progression requirements arespecified and full details can be found onour website.

We also have a number of awards of £1000per annum available to internationalstudents. Our criteria include:

• Minimum 60 per cent in Physicsqualification taken

• Offered to students who place Queen Maryas firm choice

• As with the UK scholarship we have placedsome progression requirements. Full detailsare available online.

AccommodationWe currently have over 2000 bed spaces tooffer to new and returning students in mixedand same sex accommodation. There are twostyles of housing on campus: en-suite andnon en-suite. Each bedroom is furnished witha single bed, wardrobe, desk and chair aswell as storage space and bookshelves. Thecommunal kitchens are fully equipped with afridge freezer, cooker, microwave oven (flatsof 6 people or more), storage cupboards anddining areas. All en-suite bedrooms have apersonal refrigerator. Basic insurance isincluded as part of your tenancy agreement.This licence agreement runs September toJune for 38 weeks. Laundrettes, shops, cafesand restaurants are all easily accessible fromour residences. All of our rooms have internetaccess at no extra cost.

In addition to our on campus accommodationwe offer advice and support on findinghousing in the private sector. We run aunique in-house service with talks and lists ofavailable properties of which there is anabundant supply in East London.

For up to date accommodation prices pleasevisit the Residences website:www.residences.qmul.ac.uk

Whilst lectures and tutorialsmay be held in otherbuildings around campus,there are many facilitieswithin the G.O. Jonesbuilding for your use. These include the Physics Museum whereundergraduates worktogether on material coveredin lectures, the Hive studyarea, the undergraduateTeaching Laboratories andthe central administrationarea where you can hand inyour coursework and talk tosupport staff such as theStudent Support Officer.

The HiveThe Hive provides a relaxed and informalenvironment for group and social study. It hasaround 300 seats across two spaces and isthe main focus for group and social study oncampus. The area is aimed at large and smallgroups and those who wish to mix work withsocialising.

Student SupportWe have a full-time Student Support Officer whois there to help with any queries or problemsduring the academic year. They are the firstpoint of contact for any student concerns, bethey academic or pastoral. They are available toprovide advice and guidance on matters suchas Student Funding, Bursaries and FinancialSupport, Accommodation and Welfareconcerns, help with special exam arrangementsfor those students in need of additional supportand offers advice on careers and further study.

Departmental facilities and support

The Careers ServiceThe Queen Mary Careers Service is availableto help you with any career-related issuethroughout your time at university. If you arenot sure what you want to do, a discussionwith a careers adviser will help you to beclearer about your options for work or furtherstudy, and our resources will help you tobegin investigating the careers open tograduates.

Queen Mary students have access to a widerange of events organised locally by theQueen Mary Careers Service and London-wide by The Careers Group giving you achance to talk to employers and take part ininteractive activities, enabling you to get abetter taste of what the jobs are really like.There are also a number of talks and eventsoffered by the Careers Service and theDepartment of Physics.

Our graduates have well-developed transferableskills, much in demandfrom employers. Forexample, as a physicsgraduate you will:• have a practical approach to problemsolving

• have developed high level research skills

• be able to reason and communicate complexideas

• have excellent IT skills through the use of word processing and spreadsheets with additional knowledge of computerprogramming

• be able to manage your time effectively

• have experience of working with others

• be comfortable reporting/presenting yourwork to others in the form of projects, essays or seminars.

In recent years over 20 per cent of ourgraduates have gone on to some form offurther study, this can be a one year Mastersdegree or PhD. The remaining students go oninto employment in a wide range of fields,including roles such as Market ResearchAnalyst, Accountant and AdvertisingExecutive in the Business and Finance fieldand Computer Analyst, Programmer and ICTManager in IT. They have also taken ontechnical physics roles in engineering firmsand medical and non-medical laboratories.

Your potential earnings also reflect thecontribution you can make: according to areport by PriceWaterhouseCoopers, physicsgraduates earn around £187,000 moreduring their career than non-graduates.

Graduate opportunities


Samuel Etienne, 3rd year physicsundergraduate: In my third year already I’ve learned quite a bit about careers fromthe Careers Service in terms of what I wantto do after my degree. Perhaps a PhD, go into finance or into medical physics.There’s so much you can do.“”

sessions by dedicated technicians, academicstaff and postgraduate students.

How is the academic year structured?You will take four modules in each of the twosemesters in every year of study. Theacademic year runs from September to June.There are typically 3 or 4 lectures per weekfor each module. You will also have 1 or 2hours scheduled for tutorial work for eachmodule. You are expected to do someindependent study outside of your timetabledhours. Modules often have an element ofcoursework to them therefore you will beexpected to spend time preparing your hand-ins and these count towards your final mark.Some modules have a class test and mosthave an end of year examination whichmakes up the bulk of your mark for thatmodule.

Can I take modules fromoutside of the Departmentof Physics?You will have a number of options available to you each year, but the exact number willdepend on which degree programme you are registered on. Our modular system allowsyou take a subject from another departmentwhich will still count towards your degree. For example, you may choose to study alanguage with choices from beginner toadvanced level in a variety of languages. Visit the Language and Learning Unit website for more details:www.languageandlearning.qmul.ac.uk

Who can I go to for advice and help?When you start at Queen Mary, you will beallocated an Academic Adviser. This personwill talk to you about your module options and will discuss with you what is best for your needs before registering you on theappropriate modules. If you need support or advice on personal or academic matters,then your Adviser is there to help you.

We have a full-time Student Support Officer(SSO) who acts as the first point of contact forany student concerns, be they academic orpastoral. The SSO is available to provideadvice and guidance on matters such asStudent Funding, Bursaries and FinancialSupport, Accommodation and Welfareconcerns, help with special examarrangements for those students in need to additional support and offers advice on careers and further study.

If you wish to you will be able to take part in asupplemental study program in your first yearof study. The Peer Assisted Study Support(PASS) scheme supports new studentsthrough weekly one hour sessions led bysecond and third year students.

If I want to be consideredfor a scholarship do I needto make an application tothe department?No, all students are considered for this. Threeawards of £3,000 per annum are made to UKand European students whilst for overseasstudents we have scholarships of £1,000 perannum available. We look at your record oncewe have received your examination results anda decision is based on the following criteria:

• They are given to students with the highestA-level UCAS tariff

• Grade A is expected at A-level or a minimumof 60 per cent in Physics qualification foroverseas students

• Offered to students who place us as their firmchoice

• Progression criterion of 70 per cent isplaced

• Minimum of 70 per cent attendance isrequired

What does studyingPhysics at Universityinvolve?You will be expected to devote yourself full-time to your studies. With regards to yourtimetabled hours, in the first semester of yourfirst year you should expect to spend onaverage each week:

• 3 or 4 hours in lectures for each module

• 3-6 hours in the laboratory

• 3 hours in exercise classes or tutorials

However, overall you should be devotingaround 40 hours a week to your degree. Thiswill include your timetabled lessons, studyingand preparation for laboratory sessions andexercise classes.

How will I be taught?The teaching in the Department of Physics iscarried out through lectures and exerciseclasses backed up by a practical element.Lectures take place in various locationsaround the campus and will not always beheld in the Department of Physics. This willgive you a chance to get to know the differentareas of the College.

Tutorials and exercise classes are used tosupport the lectures. These classes will betaken by the lecturer and postgraduatestudents They are an opportunity for you to ask questions and work through anyproblems you have with the material.

We have laboratories which are reservedsolely for the use of our undergraduatestudents. In the first year you are required to take the module Scientific Measurement,(see page 15 for a description) which willillustrate the basic concepts in physics: you will carry out experiments and interpretresults. This gives you valuable knowledge onhow certain laboratory instruments work andit will also give you the opportunity to developyour time management and reporting skills.You are supported in these laboratory

Frequently Asked Questions


We run two annual Open Days (find out when the next one is at:www.qmul.ac.uk/visitus/, as well as CampusTours throughout the year. You’ll be shownaround by one of our students in a smallgroup – so you’ll have the chance to ask asmany questions as you like.

Find out more about visiting the College atwww.qmul.ac.uk/visitus/

Applying to Queen Mary For all full-time higher educationprogrammes at universities and colleges in the UK, students must apply online atwww.ucas.com

You’ll find full instructions to help you fill inyour online application, plus help text whereappropriate. UCAS also has a comprehensiveguide called Applying Online, which can bedownloaded from the website

Visit us The best way to find out about Queen Mary isto visit; talk to Professors and Doctors in thedepartment you are interested in, see thehalls of residence, sample a sandwich from a campus café.

The Department of Physics holdsvarious events and lectures

for A-level students. For a taste of physics at university visitwww.ph.qmul.ac.uk/schools

There are three types of applicant:

1 Students at a school or college registeredwith UCASAll UK schools and colleges (and manyestablishments overseas) are registeredwith UCAS to manage their students’applications. Advice is available from yourteacher or a careers adviser at your schoolor college. You fill in an online applicationand submit it to a member of staff. After checking your details, and havingadded the academic reference, your schoolor college submits the completedapplication online to UCAS. You pay onlineusing a credit card or debit card. You mayalso be able to pay through your school orcollege.

2 Independent applicants in the UKOther UK applicants, who are not at schoolor college, apply online independently. It islikely that you are a mature applicant, who,unlike school and college students, cannotreadily seek advice from your teacher, butcan instead consult with various careersorganisations (such as Connexions). You are responsible for paying the correctapplication fee, for obtaining and attachingthe academic reference and for submittingthe completed application online to UCAS.

3 International applicants outside the UK (EU and worldwide)Except for those whose school or college isregistered with UCAS, individuals from theEU (excluding the UK), and worldwide, applyonline independently. Advice is availablefrom British Council offices and other centresoverseas, such as your school or college orone of our overseas representatives.

You will find a step-by-step guide to applyingat: www.qmul.ac.uk/international/howtoapply/index.htm

Next steps


With eight million residents, London is upthere with Tokyo and NYC in terms of sheersize. Yet rather than a single city, London isactually a patchwork of different areas –many of them former villages in their ownright. Many retain their own centres, with aparade of shops, bars and restaurants thatreflects its own particular and historiccharacter.

Depending on your mood, the occasion andthe kind of place you are looking for, you canmake this diversity work to your advantage –there’s always somewhere that will suit yourmood, budget, and the kind of occasion youare looking for.

Queen Mary’s main campus is at Mile End,well connected to the rest of the city by tube.Mile End (Central line) and Stepney Green(Hammersmith and City, and District lines)are both a short walk away.

Living in London

1 Old Street, andsurrounding

EAT… Yelo, on Hoxton Square (Thai food)Shish, an upmarket kebab restaurant.VISIT…White Cube2 Gallery. This area is the epicentre of the East End’s artisticcommunity.

SHOP… The Hoxton Boutique.

The Sunday Flower Market at Columbia Road is legendary amongst Londoners.

2 Shoreditch, and Brick Lane

EAT… Brick Lane is London’s ‘Curry Capital’– an entire street lined with Indianand Bangladeshi restaurants. Brick Lane Beigel Bake, open 24-hours (great for bagelemergencies).

VISIT… The Old Truman Brewery, a convertedbrewery and home to numerous fashiondesigners, artists and DJs.

A world-famous city and the nation’s capital, London is an exciting place to live. If you’re new to the city, you’re in for a treat; and if you’ve lived here before, then you’llknow there’s always more to explore. Either way, student life in London promises to be an adventure.

3 Bow WharfThe complex includes: The Fat Cat Café Bar;The Thai Room; and Jongleurs Comedy Club,which, as well as the comedy, has a bar andrestaurant plus post-comedy disco on Fridayand Saturday nights.

4 Docklands, and Canary Wharf

EAT…Ubon by Nobu (the sister restaurant to the West End favourite of the stars), or Carluccio’s, an Italian chain servingexceptional food. Wagamama in the JubileePlace Mall. Bene Bene, which offers a hugeselection of seriously cheap sandwiches,salads, bagels and desserts.

VISIT… The Museum in Docklands, whichexplores the story of the docks from Romansettlement through to recent regeneration.

5 Bethnal Green, and Victoria Park

EAT… E Pellici, on Bethnal Green Road, anItalian greasy spoon café which has been around since 1900. Nando’s, HackneyVillage for a range of other restaurants andcafes, including Frocks, Mojo’s and Déjà Vu.

VISIT…Modern Art and Vilma Gold gallerieson Vyner Street, just north of Bethnal Green.


VISIT…Mile End Park, 90 acres of greeneryin the heart of the East End where you’ll findan ecology park; an arts park; and a terracedgarden and a sports park.

The Mile End Stadium, includes an eight lane athletics track, artificial hockey/footballpitches and grass football pitches. TheGenesis Cinema, go on Wednesday night fora student discount. The Whitechapel Gallery:famous for exhibitions by big name artists.

Tower Hill

Monument

Blackfriars

Mansion House

St Paul’s

Bank

Holborn

Chancery Lane

Temple

BarbicanLiverpool

Street

Shoreditch

Whitechapel

Aldgate

Stepney Green

Bethnal Green

London Bridge

Waterloo

Mile End

Charing Cross

Canary Wharf

Wapping

Limehouse

Tower of London

Mile EndPark

EAST LONDONTo Olympic

Stadium

TOWER HAMLETS

CITY OFLONDONHOLBORN

St James’Park

1

2

6

4

3VictoriaPark

5

SOUTHWARK

Leicester Square

Clerkenwell

IslingtonBloomsbury

ULU: Students’ Union

Kings CrossBritish Library

Euston

To O2 Arena

The Morgan Arms, a bit more of an up-marketpub. The Golden Bird (Chinese), The Pride ofAsia (Indian), Matsu (Japanese) restaurants,if you like to eat your way around the world.Roastars coffee shop, for a small caffeinebuzz at the start of the day.

6 Mile End, andsurrounding area

EAT…with Mile End’s big range of eatingplaces, our students never go hungry,whatever their culinary skills. Wetherspoon'spub, offering the ‘cheap and cheerful’ deals.


This guide has been produced by the Publications and Web Office for The Department of Physics – Pub6708

For further information contact:The Department of Physics Queen Mary, University of LondonMile End RoadLondon E1 4NSTel: +44 (0)20 7882 5051Fax: +44 (0) 20 8981 9465email: [email protected]

This brochure has been printed onenvironmentally friendly material

from sustainable sources.

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Queen Mary, University of London Physics Undergraduate 2010