MPhys (Hons) Physics Integrated Master's degree at the University of Portsmouth

You'll explore theories in the areas of newtonian mechanics, thermodynamics, gravitation and electrostatics throughout this module. You'll be assessed through continuous assessments that will check your knowledge and understanding followed by a final summer exam.

You'll study calculus, vectors, matrices, complex numbers and linear algebra while learning how these tools let you express physical systems clearly and accurately. As you explore mechanics in one, two and three dimensions, you'll learn to turn real physical problems into mathematical models that reveal how motion, rotation and periodic behaviour unfold. Throughout the module, you'll construct and solve differential equations and use calculus-based models to link physical laws with real-world systems. you'll strengthen your modelling skills through frequent problem solving that keeps your learning active and applied.

The planning, careful execution, and interpretation of practical investigations into physical systems have been crucial for the progress of physics. This module will also equip students with proficiency in utilising contemporary computational tools such as python and matlab. Additionally you will examine real-world case studies that demonstrate how physics is integrated into a global framework and supports our modern society, as well as how we employ physics to understand our position in the universe.

You'll analyse and solve issues using differential equations and vector operators.

This module will see you work with electromagnetic circuits, calculate the behaviour of electric fields and apply the laws of electromagnetism in famously conducted experiments.

You'll explore wave harmonics, the Doppler effect and resonance on one hand, and demonstrate interference and diffraction with optical systems on the other. On completion, you'll be ready to apply physics concepts to real-world issues.

You'll develop your understanding of physics at different scales, solve time-dependent and independent Schrödinger equations, and describe fundamental forces and Standard Model particle organization. When you complete this module, you'll be able to articulate modern ideas on the universe and the objects within it.

Through problem-based learning projects and hands-on lab investigations, you'll research, design, test and critically evaluate approaches to real-world scenarios, suggested by industry partners. You'll assess and mitigate risks, follow safety standards responsibly, and compare theoretical models against experimental data. You'll also gain career-focused skills in scientific writing, teamwork, and the confidence to lead in creative physical solutions.

Through lab sessions, you'll develop sophisticated programming techniques and model complex systems using both deterministic and stochastic methods. Tackle engaging examples from astrophysics and applied physics, learning how to analyse problems, formulate mathematical models, implement numerical solutions and visualize data. By the end of the module, you'll have the computational skills to model real-world physics systems, optimize code, and clearly present scientific results - preparing you for advanced research or industry.

From the properties of stars to stellar evolution and the features of our Galaxy, this module will see you utilise interactive computer software to solve astronomical problems. This module includes a 6 hour compulsory visit to Clanfield Observatory and the South Downs Planetarium to pass this module. When you complete this module successfully, you'll be able to: Apply your understanding of modern astronomical systems to calculations involving photometric and spectroscopic data Demonstrate your ability to handle modern astronomical data and compare with astrophysical models Apply physical principles of observational probes of cosmology, and solve problems in constraining cosmological paramete

First, you'll master analytical mechanics using Lagrangian and Hamiltonian techniques, reducing complex systems into simpler, symmetric forms. Then you'll analyse chaotic dynamics with differential and difference equations. When you complete the module, you'll have developed lasting intuition and problem-solving agility, with a versatile toolkit of theory and techniques essential for any physics career.

You'll account for the quantum behaviour of light and matter, evaluating quantum phenomena and underlying physics, and solve problems using Dirac notation. When you complete the module, you'll have a secure grasp of the quantum physics that inform new technologies and new understanding of atomic, optical and nuclear physics.

In this module, you'll apply classical and quantum mechanics approaches to bonding energy and crystal structures, magnetics properties and phonons. You'll analyse semiconductor properties, evaluate solid-state detectors, and compare benefits of solid state detectors. and critically discuss their applications.

In this module, you'll analyse 4-dimensional spacetime from Special Relativity, gaining skills in tensor algebra and calculus. You'll derive and apply Einstein's equations yourself, modeling black holes or gravitational waves, as you develop your skills in independent thinking, curiosity, and clear communication.

You'll explore emerging smart materials that can respond to stimuli like temperature, pressure and magnetic fields. By learning about their unprecedented capabilities, you gain key skills for innovating sensors, devices and systems. On completion of this module, you'll have gained relevant skills for working in this growing field of multiferroic material technologies.

As you work through key concepts, such as nuclear processes, relativity and cosmology, you'll evaluate observational issues like the quest for dark matter. On completion, you'll have the critical thinking and intellectual curiosity to solve real problems modelling cosmic structures.

You'll investigate properties of objects at the nanometre scale using techniques like atomic force microscopy and scanning tunnelling microscopy, supported by relevant software. You'll also apply experimental data and elementary density functional theory to construct predictive models, and get familiar with the software used in cutting edge research.

You'll absorb the robust evidence supporting the Big Bang model in this module, while evaluating alternatives. Building on your independent and creative thinking skills, you'll apply thermodynamics and gravitational collapse physics to problems around structure formation, dark matter and more.

Adapting to the school environment, you'll explore STEM themes with classes from Key Stage 3 to Sixth Form, before reflecting critically on teaching practices. Through this mentorship of mathematics and physics teachers, you'll get direct experience of STEM education, break down stereotypes of mathematics, and prove your ability to communicate difficult concepts.

You'll work together to search literature, compare ideas and ethically gather data to investigate your chosen research topic. Ultimately, you'll defend your team's findings, demonstrate personal contributions, and create a strong example of your teamworking skills for future careers.

You'll explore the physical principles powering cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic techniques - from particle therapy and nuclear medicine to MRI and CT imaging. As you review and evaluate literature about health innovation, you'll develop the critical thinking and intellectual curiosity to question established ideas and seize opportunities in this growing field.

In this module, you'll model physical systems through vectors, matrices, differential equations and more. As you develop independent and creative problem-solving skills, you'll learn to apply the universal principles that underpin theoretical physics and scientific modeling.

In this module, you'll absorb the Standard Model's key concepts, tackle problems applying quantum mechanics and relativity, and grasp particle accelerator and detector technologies. When you complete the module, you'll have solid skills to probe nature's elementary constituents and interactions.

You'll choose a research question to explore, involving theory, experimentation or computation, with supervisory support from your lecturers. You'll define and investigate your research question, picking up skills in project planning and management, as you search literature, creatively develop hypotheses, and ethically gather data. Once you've produced your analysis, you'll professionally document and defend your project in written reports and posters, communicating a complete vision from proposals to conclusions.

Using freely available modern datasets, you'll learn to select and apply appropriate statistical techniques, using methods such as principal components and clustering. You'll also demonstrate your ability to apply statistical learning techniques in programming languages like R or Python.

Throughout your project, you'll plan, manage and complete original research that challenges you to apply your knowledge in new ways. you'll strengthen your initiative, creativity, technical judgement and analytical skills while working both independently and with others. Your assessment will include continuous checks on your progress through a literature review, a research poster and an oral presentation. You'll conclude by submitting a dissertation written in the style of a journal article within your chosen physics discipline. Your findings will be shaped into a publication suitable for a relevant scientific journal, and you'll deliver a conference‑style presentation to defend your results

In this module you'll gain an introduction to the exciting new field of gravitational wave astronomy. You'll uncover the theory of gravitational waves, the main sources of detectable gravitational waves, how the laser interferometer gravitational-wave observatory (ligo) interferometers work and the data analysis techniques that are used to make detections and infer the propeties of colliding black holes and neutron stars.

Astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology are primarily observational sciences; we are only able to understand the evolution of the universe from observations of the sky using telescopes. in this module you will learn about the main issues in observational astronomy and cosmology, and the techniques, technology and methods developed by professional astronomers to view the cosmos. you will examine key observational probes in cosmology giving you a solid foundation for possible future research in astronomy and astrophysics; or simply a greater appreciation for the complexities of observing our universe.