Advanced Quantum Field Theory (882F3)

15 credits, Level 7 (Masters)

Spring teaching

In this module, you will learn an advanced formulation of Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Field Theory (QTF) in terms of the path integral formalism and of generating functionals for Green's functions. This formulation will allow you to discuss an elegant quantisation of Abelian and non-Abelian gauge field theories.

You will study QFTs at one-loop in perturbation theory, which requires the computation of divergent loop diagrams. This observation will lead you to a discussion of renormalisation and of renormalisation group equations. The concept of asymptotic freedom will be introduced. A short introduction to QFT methods in quantum gravity will be provided.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 33 hours of contact time and about 117 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.