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PHYSICS AND
ASTROPHYSICS
School of Chemical
Undergraduate and Physical Sciences
Programmes
2019 entry
2 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS Contents Introduction 03 Beyond the curriculum 21 Why Keele? 04 SPARK 21 Course Features 06 Research at Keele 23 Why Study Physics or Astrophysics? 07 Careers in Physics and Astrophysics 24 Course Information 07 What our students think of us 26 Single Honours Physics Course details 08 Some ideas for your degree... 27 Combined Honours Physics Course details 11 Entry Requirements 28 Single Honours Physics with Astrophysics Degree Titles and Application Codes 29 course details 14 How to apply 30 Combined Honours Physics with Astrophysics Meet us 31 course details 17 The Student Experience 20 Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication is correct at the time of going to press. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website www.keele.ac.uk keele.ac.uk/physics
PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 3
Introduction
Welcome to Physics and Astrophysics at Keele. This booklet gives you
an overview of the undergraduate degree programmes we offer and a
flavour of what it is like to study with us.
Keele is the leading interdisciplinary university We are proud of what our students have to
in the UK, and either Physics or Astrophysics say about us in return. In the National Student
may be studied together with another subject Survey, which gives final-year undergraduates
as part of a three-year Combined Honours BSc the chance to offer feedback on every aspect
degree. The opportunity to study two subjects of their courses, we consistently place among
simultaneously at degree level holds great the top handful of Physics/Astrophysics
appeal for many students; while the breadth departments in the UK. Our graduates gave
of knowledge and diversity of skills acquired us satisfaction ratings of 90%+ in each of
in such courses are valued by a large and the 2011-2015 surveys and we were the top-
growing cross-section of private and public ranked Physics/Astrophysics department in
sector employers. both the 2016 and 2017 surveys, with 100%
overall student satisfaction with their course.
Alternatively, many students choose to
specialise at an earlier stage and we offer All of the academic staff who teach on the
3-year Single Honours programmes in Physics and Astrophysics BSc courses at
“Physics” and in “Physics with Astrophysics”, Keele are active in research; a brief summary
where you will study just these subjects. of what we do is included later in this booklet.
These programmes allow a greater depth This enables us to inject some of the topicality
and breadth of study in your chosen field and and the excitement of our own scientific
may be a better choice for those more likely interests into the undergraduate degrees —
to go on to postgraduate study at Masters particularly within specialised lecture modules
Level and beyond. Both the Single Honours and project work in the third year. We also
and Combined Honours variants (whichever have thriving research PhD programmes,
second subject is chosen) cover the whole of and we draw on our postgraduate students to
the Core of Physics, a detailed set of concepts bolster the support we give in undergraduate
and topics laid out by the IOP for inclusion lab sessions and tutorials.
in all undergraduate physics degrees in the
Beyond Physics and Astrophysics specifically,
UK. When you graduate from one of our
Keele University as a whole makes a
programmes, you will be equally well-prepared Professor Rob Jeffries,
concerted effort to provide all of its students
either to undertake further study towards
with tools to maximise their achievements Head of Physics and Astrophysics
a higher degree or to enter graduate-level
during their time here and to communicate
employment directly.
those achievements most effectively. There
We work hard to deliver teaching and support are, for example, a number of University
of the highest quality to our students. There is services to support careers planning and
a minimum of 10 hours per week of lecture, lab personal development. There are also
and tutorial time in Combined Honours Physics opportunities to become involved in a range
or Astrophysics, or 17 hours per week in Single of activities, which can enhance both your
Honours and all of these are led directly by own experience of university and your appeal
members of the academic staff, with “an open to future employers: entrepreneurship,
door policy regarding student consultation”. We volunteering, work with students in local
participate in Keele’s well-developed personal schools, a Study Abroad programme, free
tutoring system. For each year of our degrees foreign language courses, a variety of student
there is a Physics/Astrophysics member of societies (including a Physics and Astronomy
staff responsible for keeping abreast of every Society), and much more.
student’s individual progress and ensuring
If you have any questions for us as you make
that academic programmes run smoothly. We
your choices about Physics or Astrophysics,
organise careers and postgraduate information
Keele and your university career, we would
sessions for our students and we have a
encourage you to get in touch using the details
student-staff voice committee, which meets
on the back cover. Whatever you ultimately
twice yearly with student representatives from
decide, we wish you every success in your Dr A. Mahendrasingam,
each of the three degree years.
current and future studies. Director of Undergraduate Courses
keele.ac.uk/physics
4 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Why eele?
Reasons to choose Keele
GOLD 96% No.1 97%
AWARD Graduate in England of our research
in the Teaching Employability for Course was classified as
Excellence HESA 2017 – graduates in Satisfaction world-leading or
work or further study within
Framework six months of graduation
Guardian University of international
Guide, 2018
HEFCE 2017 importance
Research Excellence
Framework 2014
keele.ac.uk/physics
PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 5
Travel Times
10mins
Stoke-on-Trent by car
40mins
To Manchester by train
50mins
To Birmingham by
Edinburgh train
Newcastle-upon-Tyne 1hr 30mins
To London by train
Manchester
Liverpool
1hr
1hr
600 GLOBAL Keele
Stoke-on-Trent
ACRES TOP 20
Birmingham
1hr
With over 600 for campus
London
acres we have the sustainability Oxford
1.5hr
largest single-site UI Green Metric ranking 2017
campus in the UK
keele.ac.uk/physics
6 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Course Features:
• Open-door policy with flexible
contact hours for excellent
access to staff when you need
advice or feedback
• Self-contained instruction
in all requisite mathematics
and computing
• Degrees accredited by the
Institute of Physics
• Top 5 ranking for student
satisfaction in the National
Student Survey
• Research-driven teaching
• Opportunity to study abroad
keele.ac.uk/physics
PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 7
Why Study Physics or Astrophysics?
What causes a superconductor to have no electrical resistance? When will we find an Earth-like planet
around another star? How big is a proton? Is there a black hole at the centre of every galaxy? Where does
mass come from? Why is the expansion of the Universe accelerating?
The fundamental aim of Physics and theories, methods and tools for a multitude of stimulating intellectually, and so rewarding to
Astrophysics is to achieve a unified description practical applications that underpin a great deal study. But they also mean that the knowledge
of matter and energy, their interactions and of modern life. As just a few examples, consider and skills gained with a Physics or Astrophysics
their interconnections in all forms and on solar cells; medical imaging; atomic clocks degree are both broad-based and far-reaching.
all scales, from sub-nuclear particles to the and GPS navigation; semiconductors and Graduates in these subjects have exceptional
Universe in its entirety. Pursuing such a goal integrated circuits; fibre optics and broadband range and flexibility and they are valued highly,
for its own sake has an undeniable appeal, internet; even the models and equations behind not only in academia but also by employers
and in many respects these are the epitome computer games and CGI, weather forecasts in science- and engineering-related industry,
of “curiosity-driven” subjects. But along the and sophisticated financial instruments. finance, business consulting and management,
way to answering some deceptively simple software development, health and medicine,
The breadth of enquiry and the variety of
and seemingly abstract questions, research education and law.
application are what make these subjects so
in Physics and Astrophysics has provided the
Course Information
Keele has a long experience and unparalleled expertise in running
Combined Honours degrees, which allow you to study two
subjects to degree level. For example, Physics and Mathematics
or Astrophysics and Geology or Physics and Computer Science
or Astrophysics and Forensic Science. You can do a combination
simply because both subjects interest you, or because you think
they will work particularly well together in your future career
or postgraduate studies. Alternatively, specialise in Physics/
Astrophysics and study your subject in greater breadth and depth
with our Single Honours degrees.
Single Honours BSc: Physics Combined Honours BSc:
or Physics with Astrophysics Physics or Astrophysics
The Single Honours routes incorporate all In a Combined Honours degree, you study There is a good deal of flexibility in
of the corresponding Combined Honours Physics or Astrophysics along with a second our programmes so you can change
courses, but as you are devoting all your time subject, in equal weight, over the first two years pathways, if you wish, once you are in-
in the three years to Physics/Astrophysics of your BSc. Typically you will take 4 modules course on a degree. For example, overlap
they offer additional time and space (4 more in each subject in each year. In year 3 you can built into the curriculums makes it easy to
modules/year) to increase both the depth and continue to study both subjects equally or you switch from Physics to Astrophysics, or
breadth of study. There is a special focus on may choose to specialise in one of them. To vice versa, in the first year of your BSc.
the applications of theoretical, mathematical attain an Institute of Physics accredited degree The choice of whether to specialise in
and computational techniques to solving you must study Physics/Astrophysics during all one or other of your two subjects in year
problems ranging from the physics of galaxies three years. 3 of a Combined Honours degree can be
to the properties of graphene, and additional made (or changed) at any time before the
opportunities for independent research and beginning of your third and final year.
learning in year 3.
keele.ac.uk/physics
8 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Single Honours Physics First Year
Your current studies will have introduced you to some of the central themes of Physics. These are
reinforced in your first-year modules, but you will also encounter new concepts and develop new skills.
Mathematics and Computing are taught both within specific modules and classes; problem classes and tutorial sessions, in smaller groups,
as part of the core physics that is studied in parallel. You will learn how focused on applying the material covered in lectures. All these
to apply your mathematical skills in topics such as calculus, complex sessions are delivered by members of academic staff. Postgraduate
numbers, statistics and differential equations to physical problems; demonstrators provide additional support in labs, tutorials and
practical laboratory work contains work that both supports your physics problem classes.
learning but also allows you to apply your IT skills and programming.
Each week there are 17-18 hours of directly taught classes featuring a
mixture of traditional lectures; practical and computational laboratory
Indicative Year 1 modules are:
Semester 1 Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity gives a calculus-based development of classical 2 hours lecture
mechanics, Kepler’s laws and Newtonian gravitation, and Einstein’s Special Theory of per week
Relativity.
Nature of Matter demonstrates that, while classical physics provides an adequate 2 hours lecture
description of the behaviour of matter under familiar, “everyday” circumstances, a quantum per week
treatment is necessary for a more complete understanding.
Semester Scientific Practice and Scientific Programming provide the core communication, 2 hours per week
1&2 writing, presentation and study skills required by the practising physicist and provide an + 2 hours practical
introduction to the essentials of computational analysis and programming. classes
Mathematics for Physics and Applied Mathematics and Statistics cover the 2 hours of lectures
fundamental mathematics required in the course – from calculus to complex numbers – + 2 hours of tutorial
and apply this to a variety of physical scenarios, with a mixture of lectures and problem- per week
based learning.
Laboratory 3 hours per week
Problem Classes supporting the Physics modules. 2 hours per week
Semester 2 Oscillations and Waves occur in virtually every branch of Physics, in the form of light and 2 hours lecture
sound waves, oscillations of bridges and of atoms in crystals, resonance in mechanical per week
systems and electrical circuits, quantum-mechanical waves, etc.
Electricity and Magnetism will expand your study of the static and dynamic aspects of 2 hours lecture
electricity, magnetism and their related fields. The transient and steady-state responses of per week
electrical networks are examined in lectures and in laboratory experiments.
Instrumentation Physics introduces concepts behind the measurement and analysis of 2-3 hours lectures
physical quantities, from temperature and pressure to light and sound, with a mixture of and laboratory
lecture and lab-based learning. per week
keele.ac.uk/physics
PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 9
Single Honours Physics Second Year
In your second year you continue with the study of core physics
and mathematics, but attention is also given to more advanced and Physics external examiner, 2017
applied topics. Each week there are approximately 8 1-hour lectures, I remain very impressed with the very
and a further 10-11 hours of taught classes in the form of laboratory high level of care the team takes to work
work, problem classes and tutorials, all led by academic members
with students to improve their learning.
of staff. Semester 1 contains laboratory work associated with optics
and computational physics; in the second semester students work in
This is evidenced from the very high
small groups on short investigations into electronic sensors, carry out standards and excellent feedback..
a mini-project in instrumentation and measurement and participate in
laboratory work on nuclear and radiation physics.
Indicative Year 2 modules are:
“
Semester 1 Optics and Thermodynamics considers the wave nature of radiation and the laws 2 hours lecture
governing the transfer of heat and entropy in macroscopic systems. You will study per week
polarisation and birefringence, interference and diffraction (including Fourier methods and
analysis), basic optical systems (including the Michelson-Morley interferometer), heat
capacities, work, internal and free energies, changes of state and entropy.
Quantum Mechanics gives an introduction to the fundamental methods of quantum 2 hours lecture
physics, the Schrödinger equation and its applications including the structure of the per week
hydrogen atom, emission and absorption spectra, electron spin, angular momentum,
magnetic moments, and aspects of multi-electron atoms.
Mathematical Physics looks at more advanced topics that are used in theoretical and 2 hours lecture plus
applied physics. You will study motion in symmetric potentials, Lagrangian mechanics and a 1 hour tutorial
the use of special functions. per week
Numerical Methods covers the application of computational techniques to solve problems 1 hour lecture and
in physics, including interpolation, optimisation, the solution of differential equations, 2 hour lab class
numerical integration and Monte Carlo simulations. per week
Semester Mathematics for Physics includes the core analysis methods and techniques such as 1 hour lecture
1&2 vector calculus, matrices and Fourier analysis that are used throughout physics. per week
Laboratory 3 hours per week
Problem Classes support the Physics modules 3 hours per week
Semester 2 Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics develops key statistical topics in Physics 2 hours lecture
such as bosons, fermions, phonon and photon gases and blackbody radiation, and per week
explores how these relate to thermodynamics and the structure of solids.
Nuclear and Particle Physics is divided into four main topics: nuclear models and the 2 hours lecture
strong force; radioactive decay and the weak force; nuclear reactions; and a brief study per week
of elementary particles, including quarks and gauge bosons, and the use of Feynman
diagrams to describe and analyse their interactions.
Applied Physics and Emerging Technologies examines the physics behind several 3 hours lectures
examples of developments and breakthroughs of topical interest (e.g. graphene, plus tutorials
gravitational waves). You will then have the opportunity to do your own research into a new per week
topic of your choice and present your findings.
Radiation Physics explores three main topics: the properties of ionising radiation and the 4 hours per week
interaction of photons with matter; detecting radiation, dosimetry and radiation safety; and including lectures,
the applications of radiation physics in medicine and diagnostic imaging. Laboratory work tutorials and lab
focuses on nuclear physics and radiation safety. classes
keele.ac.uk/physics
10 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Single Honours Physics Third Year
In your third year you will take core modules in Physics, plus a choice knowledge but develop their subjects as applications and extensions
of modules that reflect staff research interests. Single Honours students of the fundamental, core physics covered in years 1 and 2 by all
in Physics have a core of Electromagnetism, a Physics project, a Keele students.
dissertation and a further advanced module in Quantum Mechanics,
Each lecture module (whether core or option) involves 2 hours
together with a choice of 4 options. Student demand determines
per week of lectures and in most cases a regular tutorial session.
which options, out of the full array listed here, are run in any given
Project work takes roughly 6 hours per week and students might be
academic year.
expected to spend a similar amount of time researching and writing
All of the option modules are open to Physics or Astrophysics students. their dissertations.
Astrophysics-oriented modules do not assume prior astronomical
Indicative Year 3 modules are:
Core Option
Electromagnetism
Physics Project
Dissertation
Atmospheric Physics
Binary Stars and Exoplanets
Cosmology
Data Analysis and Model Testing
Life in the Universe
Particle Physics and Accelerators
Physics of Compact Objects
Physics of Fluids
Plasma Physics
Polymer Physics
Quantum Mechanics II
All Physics students carry out an independent research project, with
guidance from academic staff, throughout their third year. The project
can be experimental, computational or theoretical in nature. Students
can choose from a list of suggested topics, or they may (with staff Physics External Examiner, 2017
approval) develop one from scratch that fits their own interests. Projects
build on the knowledge base and the experimental, analytical and
I was extremely impressed to see the data analysis
reporting skills acquired during Years 1 and 2, and they also develop module in year 3 - which provided some very
new physics-specific expertise and transferable skills for employment. interesting and original ideas. It is unusual to see a
Single Honours students also write a dissertation on a Physics topic module of this kind delivered at a high level in an
chosen from an extensive list. undergraduate degree.
keele.ac.uk/physics
“PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 11
Combined Honours Physics First Year
Your current studies will give you a basic introduction to some of the central themes of Physics. These are
reinforced and developed by some of our first-year modules. You will also meet several new concepts.
Essential mathematics and computing are taught within the course, Each week there are four/five 1-hour lectures in Physics; one 3-hour
so prior study of them at A-level is, while certainly beneficial, not a laboratory class; one 1-hour tutorial in mathematical methods; and
requirement. Approximately 20% of lectures (and assessment) in the first one 2-hour problem class in which you apply the material covered in
year modules are devoted to maths, beginning with differentiation and lectures. All of these are delivered by members of the academic staff.
working through to multivariable calculus, with an emphasis on Physics Postgraduate demonstrators provide additional support in the labs,
applications. Practical labs contain work to develop computer and IT tutorials and problem classes.
skills, including basic programming.
Indicative Year 1 modules are:
Semester 1 Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity gives a calculus-based development of classical 2 hours lecture
mechanics, Kepler’s laws and Newtonian gravitation, and Einstein’s Special Theory per week
of Relativity.
Nature of Matter demonstrates that, while classical physics provides an adequate description 2 hours lecture
of the behaviour of matter under familiar, “everyday” circumstances, a quantum treatment is per week
necessary for a more complete understanding.
Semester Mathematics for Physics (lectures and tutorials) 2 hours
1&2 per week
Laboratory (including computing) 3 hours
per week
Problem Classes supporting the Physics modules 2 hours
per week
Semester 2 Oscillations and Waves occur in virtually every branch of Physics, in the form of light and 2 hours lecture
sound waves, oscillations of bridges and of atoms in crystals, resonance in mechanical per week
systems and electrical circuits, quantum-mechanical waves, etc.
Electricity and Magnetism will expand your study of the static and dynamic aspects of 2 hours lecture
electricity, magnetism and their related fields. The transient and steady-state responses of per week
electrical networks are examined in lectures and in laboratory experiments.
Steven Wye
(BSc Physics and Chemistry, 2007; PhD Physics,
2011) Physics Teaching Fellow at Keele
Studying Physics at Keele was challenging and
rewarding and prepared me very well for my PhD.
The course taught me many aspects of Physics
from the quantum and sub-atomic world to the
enormous scale and motions of
planets and galaxies.
“ keele.ac.uk/physics12 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Combined Honours Physics Second Year
In your second year you continue with the study of core Physics. Laboratory classes in the first semester support lectures in Optics; in
Each week there are four 1-hour lectures, 1-hour lecture in Mathematics the second semester, students work in pairs on short investigations
for Physics, plus one 3-hour laboratory class and one 3-hour problem into electronic sensors and instruments, and carry out a mini project in
class, all led by members of the academic staff. instrumentation and measurement.
Indicative Year 1 modules are:
Semester 1 Optics and Thermodynamics considers the wave nature of radiation and the laws 2 hours lecture
governing the transfer of heat and entropy in macroscopic systems. You will study per week
polarisation and birefringence, interference and diffraction (including Fourier methods and
analysis), basic optical systems (including the Michelson-Morley interferometer), heat
capacities, work, internal and free energies, changes of state and entropy.
Quantum Mechanics gives an introduction to the fundamental methods of quantum 2 hours lecture
physics, the Schrödinger equation and its applications including the structure of the per week
hydrogen atom, emission and absorption spectra, electron spin, angular momentum,
magnetic moments, and aspects of multi-electron atoms.
Semester Mathematics for Physics 1 hour lecture
1&2 per week
Laboratory 3 hours per week
Problem Classes supporting the Physics modules. 3 hours per week
Semester 2 Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics develops key statistical topics in Physics 2 hours lecture
such as bosons, fermions, phonon and photon gases and blackbody radiation, and per week
explores how these relate to thermodynamics and the structure of solids.
Nuclear and Particle Physics is divided into four main topics: nuclear models and the 2 hours lecture
strong force; radioactive decay and the weak force; nuclear reactions; and a brief study per week
of elementary particles, including quarks and gauge bosons, and the use of Feynman
diagrams to describe and analyse their interactions.
keele.ac.uk/physicsPHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 13
Combined Honours Physics Third Year
In your third year you will take core modules in Physics, plus a choice All of the option modules are open to any Physics or Astrophysics
of several option modules that reflect staff research interests. Students student. In particular, Astrophysics-oriented modules do not assume any
continuing with both subjects as part of their Combined Honours BSc prior knowledge of astronomy, but develop their subjects as applications
degree take a core module in Electromagnetism, do an individual project, and extensions of the fundamental, core physics covered at Levels 1 and
and take two option modules. Students specialising in Physics also 2 by all Keele students.
take Electromagnetism and do a project, plus they research and write
Each lecture module (whether core or option) involves 2 hours per week
a dissertation and take a total of five option modules. Student demand
of lectures. In many cases, the module lecturer will additionally offer
determines which options, out of the full array listed here, are run in any
regular tutorial sessions. Project work takes approximately 6 hours per
given academic year.
week, and the dissertation for students specialising in Physics another
6 hours per week.
Indicative Year 3 modules are:
Continuing with Specialising in
Two Subjects Physics
Core Option Core Option
Electromagnetism
Physics Project
Dissertation
Atmospheric Physics
Binary Stars and Exoplanets
Cosmology
Data Analysis and Model Testing
Life in the Universe
Particle Physics and Accelerators
Physics of Compact Objects
Physics of Fluids
Plasma Physics
Polymer Physics Connor Martin
(BSc Physics with Mathematics, 2016)
Quantum Mechanics II
My Physics course at Keele provided
me with answers to the mysterious,
from the weirdness of quantum
All Physics students carry out an independent research project, with guidance mechanics to the vastness of
from academic staff, throughout their third year. The project can be experimental, cosmology. I feel confident and ready
computational or theoretical in nature. Students can choose from a list of suggested to use the skills I have learned here to
topics, or they may (with staff approval) develop one from scratch that fits their own go further, in a postgraduate degree.
interests. Projects build on the knowledge base and the experimental, analytical and
“
reporting skills acquired during Years 1 and 2, and they also develop new physics-
specific expertise and transferable skills for employment.
keele.ac.uk/physics14 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Single Honours Physics with Astrophysics First Year
Your current studies will have introduced you to some of the central themes of Physics. These are
reinforced in your first-year modules, but you will also encounter new concepts and develop new skills
and some basic topics in astrophysics are introduced.
Mathematics and Computing are taught both within specific modules Each week there are 17-18 hours of directly taught classes featuring a
and as part of the core physics that is studied in parallel. You will mixture of traditional lectures; practical and computational laboratory
learn how to apply your mathematical skills in topics such as calculus, classes; problem classes and tutorial sessions, in smaller groups,
complex numbers, statistics and differential equations to physical focused on applying material covered in lectures. All these sessions are
problems; Practical laboratory work contains work that both supports delivered by members of academic staff. Postgraduate demonstrators
your (astro)physics learning but also allows you to apply your IT skills provide additional support in labs, tutorials and problem classes.
and programming. The semester 2 laboratory is specifically focused
on astrophysics.
Indicative Year 1 modules are:
Semester 1 Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity gives a calculus-based development of classical 2 hours lecture
mechanics, Kepler’s laws and Newtonian gravitation, and Einstein’s Special Theory of per week
Relativity.
Nature of Matter demonstrates that, while classical physics provides an adequate 2 hours lecture
description of the behaviour of matter under familiar, “everyday” circumstances, a per week
quantum treatment is necessary for a more complete understanding.
Physics Laboratory 3 hours per week
Semester Scientific Practice and Scientific Programming provide the core communication, 2 hours per week
1&2 writing, presentation and study skills required by the practising physicist and provide an + 2 hours practical
introduction to the essentials of computational analysis and programming. classes
Mathematics for Physics and Applied Mathematics and Statistics cover the 2 hours of lectures
fundamental mathematics required in the course – from calculus to complex numbers – + 2 hours of tutorial
and apply this to a variety of physical scenarios, with a mixture of lectures and problem- per week
based learning.
Problem Classes supporting the Physics/Astrophysics modules 2 hours per week
Semester 2 Oscillations and Waves occur in virtually every branch of Physics, in the form of light and 2 hours lecture
sound waves, oscillations of bridges and of atoms in crystals, resonance in mechanical per week
systems and electrical circuits, quantum-mechanical waves, etc.
Electricity and Magnetism will expand your study of the static and dynamic aspects of 2 hours lecture
electricity, magnetism and their related fields. The transient and steady-state responses of per week
electrical networks are examined in lectures and in laboratory experiments.
Introduction to Astronomy and Stellar Structure surveys the universe and the 2 hours lecture plus
measurements that are made in order to characterise its contents. You will learn the 2 hours practical
basics of stellar physics and stellar evolution and about the history of the universe as observing per week
a whole.
Astrophysics Laboratory 3 hours per week
keele.ac.uk/physicsPHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 15
Single Honours Physics with Astrophysics Second Year
In your second year you continue with the study of core physics and Semester 1 contains laboratory work associated with optics and
mathematics, but attention is also given to more advanced and applied computational physics; the second semester is dominated by
topics. Each week there are approximately 8 1-hour lectures, and a astrophysics - students work on astrophysical measurements of stars
further 10-11 hours of taught classes in the form of laboratory work, in the laboratory, make their own observations at our on-campus
problem classes and tutorials, all led by academic members of staff. observatory and learn about the formation, structure and evolution of
stars and galaxies.
Indicative Year 2 modules are:
Semester 1 Optics and Thermodynamics considers the wave nature of radiation and the laws 2 hours lecture
governing the transfer of heat and entropy in macroscopic systems. You will study per week
polarisation and birefringence, interference and diffraction (including Fourier methods and
analysis), basic optical systems (including the Michelson-Morley interferometer), heat
capacities, work, internal and free energies, changes of state and entropy.
Quantum Mechanics gives an introduction to the fundamental methods of quantum 2 hours lecture
physics, the Schrödinger equation and its applications including the structure of the per week
hydrogen atom, emission and absorption spectra, electron spin, angular momentum,
magnetic moments, and aspects of multi-electron atoms.
Mathematical Physics looks at more advanced topics that are used in theoretical and 2 hours lecture plus
applied physics. You will study motion in symmetric potentials, Lagrangian mechanics and a 1 hour tutorial
the use of special functions. per week
Numerical Methods covers the application of computational techniques to solve 1 hour lecture and
problems in physics, including interpolation, optimisation, the solution of differential 2 hour lab class
equations, numerical integration and Monte Carlo simulations. per week
Physics Laboratory 3 hours per week
Semester Mathematics for Physics includes the core analysis methods and techniques such as 1 hour lecture
1&2 vector calculus, matrices and Fourier analysis that are used throughout physics. per week
Problem Classes supporting Physics/Astrophysics modules 3 hours per week
Semester 2 Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics develops key statistical topics in 2 hours lecture
Physics such as bosons, fermions, phonon and photon gases and blackbody radiation, per week
and explores how these relate to thermodynamics and the structure of solids.
Stellar Astrophysics builds on material from the first year but also looks at nuclear 2 hours lecture
reactions in stars and the production of the chemical elements; nuclear models and the per week
strong force; and elementary particles, such as quarks, and the use of Feynman diagrams
to describe their interactions.
Applied Physics and Emerging Technologies examines the physics behind several 3 hours lectures
examples of developments and breakthroughs of topical interest (e.g. graphene, plus tutorials
gravitational waves). You will then have the opportunity to do your own research into a per week
new topic of your choice and present your findings.
Galaxies introduces the key observations of normal and active galaxies and the physics 2 hours of lectures
that explains them. It builds upon the first-year study of mechanics, Newtonian gravity plus 2 hours of
and stellar structure, plus aspects of electromagnetism and thermodynamics from years lab and tutorials
1 and 2, to develop understanding of the structures, dynamics and long-term evolution of per week
self-gravitating stellar systems. An associated laboratory component is designed to give
broader experience with the acquisition and analysis of astronomical data in general.
Astrophysics Laboratory 3 hours per week
keele.ac.uk/physics16 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Single Honours Physics with Astrophysics Third Year
In your third year you will take core modules in Physics, plus a choice Each lecture module (whether core or option) involves 2 hours
of modules that reflect staff research interests. Single Honours students per week of lectures and in most cases a regular tutorial session.
in Physics with Astrophysics have a core of Electromagnetism, an Project work takes roughly 6 hours per week and students might be
Astrophysics project, a dissertation on an astrophysical topic and a expected to spend a similar amount of time researching and writing
further advanced module in Cosmology, together with a choice of their dissertations.
4 options. Student demand determines which options, out of the full
array listed here, are run in any given academic year.
All of the option modules are open to Physics or Astrophysics
students. Physics-oriented modules do not assume any particular prior
knowledge but develop their subjects as applications and extensions
of the fundamental, core physics covered in years 1 and 2 by all
Keele students.
Indicative Year 3 modules are:
Core Option
Electromagnetism
Physics Project
Dissertation
Atmospheric Physics
Binary Stars and Exoplanets
Cosmology
Data Analysis and Model Testing
Life in the Universe
Particle Physics and Accelerators
Physics of Compact Objects
Physics of Fluids
Plasma Physics
Polymer Physics
Quantum Mechanics II
Physics with Astrophysics students have the unique opportunity in their final year project to analyse data
acquired with a robotic observatory built and operated by Keele as part of the SuperWASP consortium.
SuperWASP is the UK’s leading programme for extrasolar planet novel investigations into stellar rotation variable stars and comets. Single
detection. We have discovered more than 100 exoplanets since 2006 Honours astrophysicists will also research and write a dissertation on an
and gathered tens of Terabytes of research-quality data in the process. astrophysical topic, chosen from an extensive list.
Some recent projects by our students have exploited these data for
keele.ac.uk/physicsPHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 17
Combined Honours Astrophysics First Year
Your current studies will give you a basic introduction to some of the central themes of Physics. These are
reinforced and developed by some of the first-year modules. You will also meet several new concepts and
cover some basic introductory topics in Astrophysics.
Essential mathematics and computing are taught within the course, Each week there are four 1-hour lectures in Physics and Astrophysics,
so prior study of them at A-level is, while beneficial, not a requirement. plus one 3-hour laboratory class, one 1-hour tutorial in mathematical
Approximately 20% of lectures (and assessment) in the first-year methods, and one 2-hour problem class in which you apply the material
modules are devoted to maths, beginning with differentiation and covered in lectures. All of these are led and delivered by members of
working through to multivariable calculus, with an emphasis on Physics the academic staff, and postgraduate demonstrators provide additional
applications. Practical labs contain work to develop computer and IT support for the labs, tutorials, and problem classes.
skills, including basic programming.
Indicative Year 1 modules are:
Semester 1 Mechanics, Gravity and Relativity gives a calculus-based development of classical 2 hours lecture
mechanics, Kepler’s laws and Newtonian gravitation, and Einstein’s Special Theory per week
of Relativity.
Nature of Matter demonstrates that, while classical physics provides an adequate 2 hours lecture
description of the behaviour of matter under familiar, “everyday” circumstances, a per week
quantum treatment is necessary for a more complete understanding.
Physics Laboratory 3 hours per week
Semester Mathematics for Physics (lectures and tutorials) 2 hours per week
1&2
Problem Classes supporting Physics/Astrophysics modules 2 hours per week
Semester 2 Oscillations and Waves occur in virtually every branch of Physics, in the form of light and 2 hours lecture
sound waves, oscillations of bridges and of atoms in crystals, resonance in mechanical per week
systems and electrical circuits, quantum-mechanical waves, etc.
Electricity and Stellar Structure will expand your study of the static and dynamic 2 hours lecture
aspects of electricity, and provide an introduction to the physics of stellar structure per week
and evolution.
Astrophysics Laboratory (including computing) 3 hours per week
keele.ac.uk/physics18 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Combined Honours Astrophysics Second Year
In your second year you continue with the study of core Physics and Labs in the first semester support lectures in Optics; in the second
Astrophysics. Each week there are four 1-hour lectures, 1-hour lecture semester you learn the basics of astronomical data reduction and
in Mathematics for Physics, plus one 3-hour laboratory class and one analysis with computer software used by professional astronomers.
3-hour problem class, all led by members of the academic staff.
The Year 2 modules are:
Semester 1 Optics and Thermodynamics considers the wave nature of radiation and the laws 2 hours lecture
governing the transfer of heat and entropy in macroscopic systems. You will study per week
polarisation and birefringence, interference and diffraction (including Fourier methods and
analysis), basic optical systems (including the Michelson-Morley interferometer), heat
capacities, work, internal and free energies, changes of state and entropy.
Quantum Mechanics gives an introduction to the fundamental methods of quantum 2 hours lecture
physics, the Schrödinger equation and its applications including the structure of the per week
hydrogen atom, emission and absorption spectra, electron spin, angular momentum,
magnetic moments, and aspects of multi-electron atoms.
Physics Laboratory 3 hours per week
Semester Mathematics for Physics 1 hour lecture
1&2 per week
Problem Classes supporting Physics/Astrophysics modules 3 hours per week
Semester 2 Statistical Mechanics and Solid State Physics develops key statistical topics in 2 hours lecture
Physics such as bosons, fermions, phonon and photon gases and blackbody radiation, per week
and explores how these relate to thermodynamics and the structure of solids.
Stellar Astrophysics builds on material from the first year but also looks at nuclear 2 hours lecture
reactions in stars and the production of the chemical elements; nuclear models and the per week
strong force; and elementary particles, such as quarks, and the use of Feynman diagrams
to describe their interactions.
Astrophysics Laboratory 3 hours per week
Astrophysics external examiner, 2017
The quality of the teaching and learning
on the Astrophysics course is very high.
Feedback to the students was clear and
comprehensive, addressing areas of strength
and possible areas for improvement.
”
keele.ac.uk/physicsPHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 19
Combined Honours Astrophysics Third Year
In your third year you will take core modules in Physics and All of the option modules are open to any Physics or Astrophysics
Astrophysics, plus option modules that reflect staff research interests. student. In particular, the Physics-oriented modules start from the base
Students continuing with both subjects as part of their Combined of core physics that all Astrophysics and Physics students have in
Honours degree take a core module in Electromagnetism, do a common from their core studies at Levels 1 and 2.
team-based project, and take two of several possible option modules.
Each lecture module (whether core or option) involves 2 hours per week
Students specialising in Astrophysics also take Electromagnetism and do
of lectures. In many cases, the module lecturer will additionally offer
a project, plus they research and write a dissertation and take a total of
regular tutorial sessions. Project work takes approximately 6 hours per
five option modules. Student demand determines which options, out of
week, and the dissertation for students specialising in Astrophysics,
the full array listed here, are run in any given academic year.
another 6 hours per week.
The Year 3 modules are:
Continuing with Specialising in
Two Subjects Astrophysics
Core Option Core Option
Electromagnetism
Physics Project
Dissertation
Atmospheric Physics
Binary Stars and Exoplanets
Cosmology
Data Analysis and Model Testing
Liz Jones
Life in the Universe (BSc Astrophysics with
Mathematics, 2014)
Particle Physics and Accelerators
With such a friendly
Physics of Compact Objects atmosphere and
approachable staff,
Physics of Fluids studying Astrophysics
at Keele gives you the
Plasma Physics necessary skills to take
on such a challenging yet
Polymer Physics fascinating subject.
Quantum Mechanics II
Astrophysics students have the unique opportunity in their final year project to analyse
data acquired with a robotic observatory built and operated by Keele as part of the
SuperWASP consortium. SuperWASP is the UK’s leading programme for extra-solar
”
planet detection. We have discovered more than 100 planets since 2006 and gathered
tens of Terabytes of research-quality data in the process. Some recent projects by our
students have exploited these data for novel investigations into stellar rotation, variable
stars and comets.
keele.ac.uk/physics20 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
The Student Experience
Learning and Teaching Assessment and Laboratory Work
We deliver our courses in a modular format Feedback Much of our understanding of Physics comes
using a mix of traditional lectures, smaller from measurement and experimentation,
tutorials and problem classes, practical Assessment and feedback are key parts of how and laboratory work is therefore an essential
laboratory sessions, and individual and group we teach and how you learn. They are meant to experience for all physicists. Likewise,
project work—all led directly by members help you assimilate a substantial body of Astro/ Astrophysics as a subject is rooted firmly in
of the academic staff. This mix is designed Physics knowledge, build on this knowledge to observation, and data analysis is a central skill
with student skills development expressly in develop a strong and broad-based skill set, and for the practising astrophysicist.
mind. For example, regular problem-solving then demonstrate your abilities effectively.
Labs are designed to support the material
sessions throughout all years of our degrees Assessment is by a mixture of coursework covered in lectures, to acquire specific
hone the kinds of analysis and knowledge- and examination. The lab components of all techniques and skills, and to investigate
application skills that are essential to doing modules are continuously assessed, as is the unfamiliar phenomena. They also incorporate
Physics and Astrophysics—and which all project work in the final year. Lecture material instruction in computer programming. There
employers value as well. Teamwork and is assessed by assignments, essays and is increasing scope as the degree goes on for
elements of project management are key parts some class tests during the modules, and by creative and open-ended lab work, and this
of second-year Physics labs and third-year examinations at the end of each semester time also provides an opportunity for informal
Astrophysics projects. Final-year project and (January and May). Over the full three years contact and discussion with members of staff.
dissertation modules include written and oral of a BSc, the assessment is about 40% by
communications components, which help to coursework and 60% by examination. In Years 1 and 2, all students do the same
build confidence in talking the language of labs in the first semester, and then Physics
physics and more generally develop the skills In all cases of assessment we will give you and Astrophysics students split into separate
to offer reasoned arguments. helpful feedback so that you can constantly labs for the second semester. In Year 3, the
develop and improve. You will receive feedback Physics and Astrophysics projects are separate
in many ways, including comments on the work throughout. We have a teaching lab for Year 1
you have handed in and informal feedback and Year 2 Physics experiments, another lab
sessions and individual discussions with tutors. specifically for Year 3 Physics Projects, and
dedicated Astrophysics computing facilities.
Assessment is via lab diaries and written
reports and, in the final-year projects, written
and oral presentations. There are elements of
group work in the Year 2 Physics labs and the
Year 3 Astrophysics projects
Study Abroad
Subject to good performance in Year 1, it is
possible to undertake one semester of study
during Year 2 as part of your degree or to take
an “International Year” out from your degree
between years 2 and 3 at one of Keele’s many
partner Universities in Europe, North America
or South Africa.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please
discuss it with us when you visit, or as soon as
possible after you arrive at Keele in Year 1.
Keele has an on-campus Observatory, which opens regularly to
the public and recently underwent a £250,000 refurbishment. It
houses a 24-inch telescope capable of research-quality imaging,
a 6-inch solar telescope and a 140-year old, 12-inch refractor.
The Observatory is readily accessible to our students, several of
whom get actively involved in its operation.
keele.ac.uk/physicsPHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 21
Beyond the curriculum SPARK
There are opportunities for Physics and SPARK is the official Physics and Astrophysics
Astrophysics students at Keele outside society at Keele, and winner of the Best
of the set curriculum, that can enhance Academic Society for 2016/17!
and complement your skills, interests
and employability.
There is a thriving Physics and Astrophysics society (known
as SPARK) who organise activities and events. Keele
Observatory hosts a community of astronomers from the
university and the wider area and is open to all on a weekly
basis. Students can become involved in our outreach
through the observatory and also through the Keele Student
Ambassador scheme; we have a portable planetarium that
visits schools and has won a national award for outreach
and widening participation.
The society was founded in 2015 to create a support network
for physics students across all years and a platform for
students to develop their passion for physics beyond their
studies. We are affiliated with the IOP (Institute of Physics) and
UKSEDS (UK Students for the Exploration and Development
of Space). Through these ties, we have a lot of opportunities
for collaborations and outreach with these institutions.
We regularly enter a team into a national UKSEDS
competition; in 2016/17 this was the National Rocketry
Championship. During this competition our team was required
to design, build and launch a mid-power rocket from scratch.
After months of hard work, we managed to launch successfully
and went on to win this competition!
For 2017/18 we have entered the Lunar Rover Competition.
So far our team has passed the first two stages of the
competition and been invited to the final stage. This is
where the remaining teams will gather and test their rover in
conditions, similar to those met on the lunar surface. For these
competitions, we welcome students of all disciplines to enter!
(students in computer science have been particularly helpful
when designing the rover!)
We host regular events including “socials” in the student union,
film and gaming afternoons, and visits to Laser Quest . Each
week we hold a revision session, where students come for a
quiet space to work with other physics students.
Find out more about SPARK at
keelesu.com/activities/society/SPARK/
If you have any questions about the society, or suggestions
for what you’d like to do if you choose to come to Keele,
please email:
soc.spark@keele.ac.uk.
keele.ac.uk/physics22 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS The storage ring of the particle accelerator at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in Grenoble, where Keele physicists do experiments to probe physical processes in polymers. keele.ac.uk/physics
PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS | 23
Research
Keele has dual research strengths in Physics and in Astrophysics
The Physics group works in the broad area of the formation of stars both singly and in As an undergraduate student at Keele, you will
“soft condensed matter” — more specifically, gravitationally bound groups; the dynamics of benefit directly from this activity. You will be
the physics of polymers, which are large star clusters; how stars produce the chemical taught by experts who do forefront research
molecules composed of many repeated elements and feed them back into galaxies and who bring elements of their research
subunits (some examples are DNA, rubber, when they die; laboratory studies aimed at into the BSc degree courses (especially in
chocolate and various pharmaceuticals). understanding interstellar chemistry; and the many of the Physics and Astrophysics option
Particular interest is centred around using physics and phenomenology of active and modules and project work in Year 3). The
powerful X-ray sources to probe the atomic- normal galaxies, supermassive black holes and added expertise of postgraduate student
scale structure of polymers, investigating how dark matter. demonstrators will be available to you in
and why they change physically when they laboratory, problem class and tutorial settings.
These groups have international reputations
become crystallised and how this impacts their And there are some opportunities to work with
and regularly use major international
use in medical and industrial applications. members of staff on research projects during
experimental and observational facilities.
the summer months between your second and
The Astrophysics group pursues a range of They are funded by UK and European research
third years.
observational, computational and theoretical councils and industry, supporting strong
research programmes. These include the postgraduate programmes with more than 15
search for planets around other stars (Keele full-time research PhD students.
astronomers have discovered more than
100 planets since 2006); the properties
and interactions of stars in binary systems;
The SuperWASP telescope array in
South Africa, built and operated by
Keele astrophysicists to search for
extrasolar planets.
keele.ac.uk/physics24 | PHYSICS AND ASTROPHYSICS
Careers in Physics and Astrophysics
As we become steadily more dependent upon science and technology in our daily lives, and as
governments continue to invest heavily in the most basic of “blue-skies” research with facilities like
the LHC or large, multinational ground- and space-based telescopes, it is vital that leaders in industry,
commerce and politics have awareness and an understanding of the fundamentals. A degree in Physics
will equip you with these, and with the knowledge and skills to undertake a wide range of careers besides.
A degree in Astrophysics from Keele is designed to provide you with the same underlying essentials.
Typically, around 40% of Physics and with the general trend, many others of our well as rigorously developing the fundamental
Astrophysics BSc graduates in the UK graduates go on to employment in technology principles of the subjects, our courses aim
choose to continue studying and training for and industry, management, business and explicitly to cultivate in our students a set of
Masters or PhD degrees or other professional finance. A few of their recent destinations specific intellectual skills that are transferable
qualifications (e.g., in education), while another include the law firm Dehns, the defence and to employment: hence, our emphasis at
40% or so find graduate-level employment aerospace multinationals Qinetiq and BAE, and various points throughout the degrees on
within six months of obtaining their degrees. the medical technology company Elekta. problem-solving sessions, lab and project
Those who enter employment directly are, work done individually and in small groups,
The widespread interest from beyond
on average, among the highest-paid of all elements of research, written reports and oral
academia in Physics and Astrophysics
undergraduate degree holders, alongside presentations. We also offer very specific
graduates comes down to the fact that the
graduates from Economics, Engineering, careers guidance for our second and third
most basic skills needed to do well in these
Mathematics and Computer Science. The chart years in the form of specialised careers talks
degrees are precisely those that all employers
on the facing page illustrates the great variety and visits from some of our previous graduates
value: namely, practice and efficiency in
of employers who actively seek Physics and who are now working in industry and research.
generic problem-solving with creative thinking
Astrophysics graduates.
backed by logical reasoning. These are Keele more broadly provides careers advice
In such a diversified jobs market, the scope then supplemented by advanced numeracy and other services to all undergraduates at the
and the appeal of Keele graduates are further and mathematical acumen; proficiency University. These are part of a comprehensive
reinforced by the interdisciplinary nature of with experimental methods; experience of plan of academic and extracurricular activities
our degree structures. In line with the national working both independently and in teams; and available to help all Keele students develop a
profile, many of our students do proceed to familiarity with a range of communications and strong set of general intellectual and practical
study for Postgraduate Certificates in Education information technology. skills, and then convey these attributes to
or Masters and research PhD degrees in employers when they graduate. To learn more
We are keenly aware of both the real-world
Physics or Astrophysics, at universities about this, you may wish to visit
and the academic expectations of the Physics
throughout the UK. But, again in keeping keele.ac.uk/journey
and Astrophysics programmes at Keele. As
Accreditation of Keele BSc degrees
All of our Combined Honours degrees in either The Single Honours degrees, which After a period of relevant post-degree
Physics or Astrophysics, with any choice of commenced recently, also include all of this experience and professional development they
second subject, are accredited by the Institute material and are in the process of accreditation. can apply for Full Membership and, eventually,
of Physics (IOP), incorporating, the full Core of Graduates of accredited BSc degrees in the for Chartered Physicist status.
Physics curriculum defined by the IOP. UK are eligible for Associate Membership of
the IOP.
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