BSc (Hons) Physics with Foundation Year Bachelor's degree at the University of Salford

Development of mathematical and modelling skills. Subjects include algebra, transposition of formulae, coordinate systems, logarithms, introduction to calculus, problem solving in velocity and acceleration, differentiation, integration and matrices.

Grounding in basic physics and the development of numerical problem solving. Syllabus includes mechanics, properties of matter and wave propagation. Electronics and electricity are introduced, along with fields (magnetic, electric, gravitation etc.) and atomic and nuclear physics.

Development of IT, research, team working, presentation and scientific reporting skills. Includes use of spreadsheets, graphical representation of data, report writing, scientific presentations and group-based research.

Laboratory skills, critical analysis of data and scientific reporting. Areas covered are experimental design, scientific measurement methods and data analysis through a series of experiments covering mechanics, thermal physics, electricity and waves.

Focuses on underlying skills required in science and engineering. Learning includes importance of units, dimensional analysis, problem solving, presentation skills, scientific IT, and CAD/CAM application. Highlights the relationship between these skills and their role for scientists and engineers in the workplace.

Learn core laboratory skills including measurement, data analysis and electronics. Undertake experiments designed to complement the core physics ideas presented in other course modules. Taught in the laboratory, facilitated by academic and technical staff.

Review A-level standard mathematics topics covering algebra, trigonometry, functions, geometry, vectors, complex numbers and calculus, with emphasis on learning their applications to physics.

Explore the application of numerical modelling, demonstrating how it can be complementary to mathematical-based analytical techniques. Learning focus is on developing appropriate physical models and is applied to the core areas of mechanics, waves and thermal physics.

Learn about the laws and applications of classical mechanics, and how the principles of relativity and quantum physics adapt these laws to describe motion at relativistic speeds and of very small entities such as atoms and electrons. Taught using a combination of lectures and interactive workshops.

Learn about the physical laws associated with electricity and magnetism and how the motion of charged particles is governed by electric and magnetic fields. Module content introduces the properties of electromagnetic waves. Taught using a combination of lectures and interactive workshops.

Learn about the laws of thermal physics and how the statistical properties of many particle systems relate to the laws in macroscopic systems. Introduces the concept of entropy and builds understanding of different states of matter. Delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

Learn about principles of wave motion applied to mechanical, sound and electromagnetic waves. Introduces wave interference and builds understanding of diffraction in optical systems and applications. Introduces underlying mathematical techniques including partial differential equations, Fourier transforms and convolutions. Delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

Learn about experimental and computational methods applied in physics. Undertake a series of experiments across a range of areas in physics, learn how to record results and link findings to laws of physics. Further develop computing skills and apply these to simulations in physics. Delivered in laboratory settings with instruction and hands-on help.

Learn about the origins and principles of quantum mechanics. Both Schrödinger's wave equation and the matrix formalism of quantum mechanics are introduced, with applications in the fields of atoms and electrons. Delivered using a combination of lectures and problem-solving tutorials.

General introduction into the subject of Physical Acoustics with an emphasis on sound radiation.

Brings together important aspects related to physics-based project work. Learn the use of CAD/CAM software in the context of design and development of complex scientific parts and models; how to construct simple sensor circuits and write interface software allowing automatic data collection; experimental design and construction, incorporating the CAD/CAM and interface skills, time management, teamwork and written/oral presentation skills via a group project.

Conduct a research and/or development project under the supervision of academic staff. Initially conduct background research into your chosen scientific area and produce a literature review highlighting the important history and progress made. Learn to work independently and be responsible for your progress. Final assessment involves producing a professional scientific report outlining the progress made and presenting this work to an academic staff panel.

Receive an overview of Nuclear Physics and gain understanding of nuclear stability in terms of the Liquid Drop Model and of nuclear reactions involving neutrons, protons, electrons and neutrinos, and major experimental techniques and practical applications. Particle physics element covers the basic discoveries of modern Particle Physics and introduces the ideas of Grand Unified Theory.

Learn how the fundamental laws of physics determine the properties of solids and liquids. Physics behind semiconductors and devices, magnetism and superconductivity are developed. Taught by a combination of lectures and problem solving tutorials.

Concentrates on the advanced physics laboratory skills required in science, engineering and the workplace. Can choose to focus on either experimental or computational physics. Build knowledge and gain the ability to use and understand the methodologies that underpin hi-tech materials deposition and analysis apparatus.

Learn about the interaction of electromagnetic waves and photons with non-linear materials and applications. Nanotechnology element covers applications of physics at the nanoscale including graphene, thin films, and quantum dots. Taught by a combination of lectures and problem solving tutorials.

Learn about the evolution of the universe, the structure and evolution of stars and galaxies and fundamental ideas in cosmology. Planetary physics elements cover planetary formation, structure and the properties of matter under extreme conditions as found in the interior of planets. Taught by a combination of lectures and problem solving tutorials.