Preparatory study for the Msc in Astronomy, the MSc in Cosmology, the MSc in Particle Physics, the MSc in Physics and the MSc in Physics (EuroMasters)
On the MSc in Astronomy, no previous knowledge of astronomy will be assumed, but a good working knowledge of both mathematics and physics will be assumed. Some topics of particular importance are listed below. Prospective students are advised to revise them, or acquaint themselves with them, before attending the module.
On the MSc in Cosmology, no previous knowledge of cosmology will be assumed, but a good working knowledge of both mathematics and physics will be assumed. Some topics of particular importance are listed below. Prospective students are advised to revise them, or acquaint themselves with them, before attending the module.
On the MSc in Particle Physics, no previous knowledge of particle physics will be assumed, but a good working knowledge of both mathematics and modern physics will be assumed. Some topics of particular importance are listed below. Prospective students are advised to revise them, or acquaint themselves with them, before attending the degree course.
On the MSc in Physics, you can build up your knowledge of physics to an advanced level if your first degree was in a different subject, or you can specialise in a particular area of physics if you already have a broad training in physics. You can choose from a wide range of physics and astronomy modules.
On the MSc in Physics (EuroMasters), no previous specialist knowledge in the areas in which we offer projects is assumed, but a good working knowledge of both mathematics and modern physics will be assumed. Some topics of particular importance are listed below. Prospective students are advised to revise them, or acquaint themselves with them, before attending the degree course.
Important topics: mathematics
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Vector methods (grad, div, curl, Laplacian, divergence, Stoke's and Green's theorems)
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Solutions of simple ordinary and partial differential equations
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Orthogonal curvilinear coordinates (spherical polars, cylindrical polars)
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Fourier transforms and integrals in 3D
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Dirac delta function
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Contour integration (Cauchy's Theorem)
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Undergraduate recommended text: M.L. Boas, Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences, Wiley
Important topics: physics
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Atomic physics: atomic energy levels, spectral lines
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Nuclear physics: nuclear binding energy, energy release from nuclear reactions
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Particle physics: Natural units, scattering cross-sections
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Quantum mechanics: Heisenberg uncertainty principle, wavefunctions, hydrogen atom, harmonic oscillator, ladder operators, Dirac bra-ket notation
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Thermodynamics and statistical physics: the laws of thermodynamics and the basic idea of thermodynamic equilibrium
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Mechanics: Newton's laws, motion of rigid bodies, Lagrangian formulation
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Electricity and magnetism: Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic wave propagation,motion of a charged particle in an electromagnetic field
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Potential theory: potentials due to distribution of mass (gravitation) and charge (electrostatic)
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Fluid dynamics: equations of continuity and motion of a fluid in the absence of viscosity
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Special relativity: basic ideas including variation of mass with velocity and the Lorentz transformation, space-time interval, 4-vectors
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Optics: concepts important in design of astronomical instruments (diffraction, interference, polarisation)
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Undergraduate recommended text: Paul A Tipler, Physics for scientists and engineers, Freeman
For the MSc in Astronomy, although no previous knowledge of astronomy will be assumed, either of the following books are suggested to supply some general introductory reading:
- R.A. Freedman and W.J. Kaufmann, Universe, Freeman
- H. Karttunen et al., Fundamental Astronomy, Springer
For the MSc in Cosmology, although no previous knowledge of cosmology will be assumed, any of the following books are suggested to supply some general introductory reading:
- R.A. Freedman and W.J. Kaufmann, Universe, Freeman [A general overview of astronomy, including cosmology]
- J. Silk, The Big Bang, Freeman[Good coverage of cosmology at a popular level]
- A. Liddle, An Introduction to Modern Cosmology, Wiley [Shorter but more technical coverage of the subject]
- Lab: if you plan do to your project in experimental particle physics, some lab experience is required.
For the MSc in Particle Physics, you may also wish to consult the following book for some general introductory reading:
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F Halzen and A D Martin, Quarks and Leptons, John Wiley
Books recommended for specific modules are listed in the respective module documents, available via teaching information on the Physics and Astronomy web page.
On all degree courses, you will be supervised by a member of faculty working in your chosen area of specialisation, under whose guidance you will carry out a research project.