The ability to apply logic, reason and mathematics in the solution of problems is a core skill. Mathematics gives physics its predictive power and ability to abstract and generalise the laws of nature often into a few, relatively simple, equations. This module seeks to develop core knowledge and skills required for degree level physics especially in terms of mathematical modelling.

Physics is completely dependent on rigorous, scientific experiments in both the discovery of new phenomena and in the testing of physical hypothesis. To be an experimental physicist requires the ability to make accurate measurements of physical properties, to gain insight from the observation of natural phenomena, and to design and construct experiments that can discriminate between different hypotheses. This module will provide an environment in which these skills can be gained and will, in addition to training in basic skills, have a strong emphasis of the creative aspect of designing experiments.

A part aim for this module is to enable students to become aware of and develop their academic, professional and personal skills through Personal Best. Personal Best is a development programme available to all students at Loughborough University.

As with all science and engineering disciplines, computing has become part of the core toolset of the professional physicist. Through problem solving, this module introduces its use for modelling and simulation of physical systems to students of all levels, regardless of computational background. It aims to introduce good programming practice and develop skills in scientific computation.

Good programming practice is emphasised throughout the module so that students should begin to appreciate the discipline of programming beyond that of developing simulations of simple physical systems. By the end of the module students should be equipped with the skills so that they can make meaningful progress on substantive problems that add real value to current technological problems.

The aim is to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilise computational tools for solving complex problems in physics, while instilling ethical standards and best practices in coding to uphold integrity and reliability in scientific research.

The two key aims of this module are:

• To introduce classical and analytical mechanics and some of the foundational principles of modern physics.
• To introduce physics thinking, the world view of the physicist and their problem solving approaches.

The students will gain knowledge in concepts in classical mechanics and experience in problem-solving. They will use foundational ideas and principles such as the principle of least action.

Skills range from using vectors to represent a system and applying Newton's laws, through to determining and analysing the equations of motion of a system using analytical mechanics and Noether's theorem.

The student should be able to use these ideas and principles to begin to be able to set up and solve models to better understand physical systems within the area of classical mechanics thus providing a strong foundation for the modules to be studied later in the programme.

The aims of this module are to:

• Provide an overview of the history and philosophy of science and familiarise students with the basic concepts and terminology of philosophy.
• Introduce elements of modern practice from existing departmental research.
• Introduce techniques, methods and habits that support physical and mathematical reasoning.

This module aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to electromagnetic theory, fields and special relativity, providing students a solid foundation in both conceptual understanding and analytical problem-solving skills. It emphasises core principles, such as the unification of electric and magnetic fields, enabling students to apply electromagnetic concepts to topics in modern physics and technology.

The aims of this module is to give students an insight and initial training in the modern scientific methods, including on topics such as reproducibility, ethical considerations, controversies, and scientific debate. Students will be exposed to current research in the department and gain insight into the working life of the scientists and their varying career paths. They will also gain understanding into how science is funded within the UK and further afield.

The aim of this module is to equip students with mathematical concepts and methods applicable to theoretical physics.

Quantum mechanics is foundational to modern physics and technology, underpinning advancements in fields like quantum computing and materials science. It challenges classical notions of reality with concepts like entanglement and superposition, offering deep insights into the nature of the universe. Studying quantum mechanics is crucial for innovation and research, equipping individuals with the mathematical and physical skills needed to understand nature and contribute and create emerging and future technologies.

Overall, the module aims to equip students with a solid foundation in quantum mechanics and its applications to a level where they are able to critically access recent advances in the subject. Our unique programme leverages students existing knowledge of Hamiltonian mechanics to provide deep insights into the similarities and differences between quantum and classical physics. We further provide a comprehensive introduction to the key contributions of quantum mechanics to science and problem solving in these areas. Topics include tunnelling, hydrogenic atoms as well as the chemical bond and molecular spectra.

Building on Physics Laboratory I, the central aim here is for the student to become a competent experimental physicist who not only understands good experimental technique but can also engineer laboratory equipment and instrumentation.

This module includes a mix of experimental practical sessions, computer workshops and seminars to develop the key skills of an experimental physicist and enhance our students' employability. Students will have the opportunity to design and build their own equipment, collect and analyse data, and link their experimental work to theories that they are investigating in other modules of their programme. Both semesters include a long form project spread over multiple weeks, and in Semester 2 this takes the form of a group project where students can choose their own area of interest.

The aim of this module is for students to become capable in the use of computers in the solution of physics-based problems and experience in a variety of software and language solutions. This involves developing an understanding of the application of computers not just for but also beyond numerical simulation for modelling and simulation related to real-world quantum physics, condensed matter and semiconductor device physics.

The aim of this module is to introduce theoretical astrophysics, physical cosmology, cosmography and aspects of practical astronomy.

The aims of this module are to:

• Further develop aptitude in physics in areas pertinent to Loughborough research strengths. The focus here is on condensed matter and solid state physics.
• To apply notions of electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics to explain the stability of matter and basic physical properties of metals, insulators and semiconductors starting from microscopic principles.
• To understand the principles of modern characterisation techniques of materials.
• To relate microscopic parameters to properties of solids, often based on the powerful method of dimensional analysis.
• To estimate numerical values of material quantities.
• To retrieve and make use of scientific resources, experimental data from papers and online databases.

The aims of this module are to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of thermodynamics and statistical physics. This will include: developing a solid understanding of the laws of thermodynamics and their applications; exploring the microscopic origins of macroscopic thermodynamic properties through kinetic theory; analysing phase transitions and critical phenomena; introducing the principles of statistical physics and their role in describing thermal systems at the microscopic level.

In this module, students will dive into collaborative learning, partnering with industry experts to attempt to find solutions to real-world problems. In addition to advanced physics thinking and problem-solving methods, students will apply a variety of industry-standard systems engineering methodologies and practices used to accelerate productivity in complex tasks.

Tailored to each specialization, whether it's Mathematics and Physics, Physics with Theoretical Physics, or Engineering Physics, students will apply their unique skills to deliver a technical project equivalent to approximately 1500 hours of individual work (team size may vary).

The ability to undertake research, and apply the scientific method and physics thinking in seeking solutions to advanced open-ended problems is one of the key skills that all physicists should have. The MPhys programme offers students the opportunity to contribute towards departmental research in part D. The module develops, through a combination of lectures and lab-based experiments, a range of skills that will support the more advanced research expected in the MPhys project. This module seeks to make clear the interplay between experimental and theoretical physics at an advanced level.

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the notions and methods of the theory of dynamical systems with an emphasis on its applications.

Statistical mechanics main purpose is to study properties of assemblies of systems in terms of physical laws. Its applications include many problems in the fields of physics, biology, chemistry, economics, neuroscience.

In Advanced Statistical Mechanics we will develop the fundamental formalisms of equilibrium statistical mechanics from microscopic properties of systems (which include electrons, atoms, molecules and magnetic moments on the sites of lattices). Then we will relate them to the thermodynamic quantities such as internal energy, free energy, entropy, specific heat and related properties of both classical and quantum-mechanical systems. We will discuss real systems from classical and quantum world. The last part of the module will be devoted to phase transitions and their description.

The aims of this module are to introduce a variety of physical phenomena that occur in condensed matter physics and show how they can be understood in terms of microscopic processes.

A crystal interacts with the environment through its surface. Since surface atoms have fewer chemical bonds than atoms inside the crystal, surfaces may differ from bulk crystals in terms of crystallographic order, chemical composition, electronic and ionic conductivity, lattice vibrations, mechanical properties etc. Surfaces need to be studied and understood in order to work with catalysis, metal oxidation, corrosion, adhesion, crystal and thin film growth. Further, both the thin film growth technology and experimental surface science use high vacuum equipment. Thin films are used to manufacture semiconductor electronics, optoelectronics, magnetic data storage, nanostructures, optical, conductive and hard coatings.

You will study interactions of vapour molecules with surfaces, physics and technology of high vacuum, electron spectroscopy, physics of surface structures and diffraction of electrons, preparation of thin solid films and a range of further techniques that are available for the investigation of surfaces and thin films, for example scanning probe microscopy.

This module introduces the physics of the nucleus and nuclear radiations, with a view to understanding its applications and implications.

Over 99.9% of the visible mass in the universe arises from protons and neutrons - their interactions explain everything from why the stars shine to how we are able to mine helium on Earth.

Nuclear radiation is hazardous to humanity but was also a major driver of our evolution and finds applications in medical treatments and diagnostics. Fission reactors could spare mankind from the consequences of fossil fuel driven climate change, but these are underutilised. Meanwhile, we have been within 20 years of a working fusion reactor for the last 40 years. Alongside discussing the relevant physics, this module explores how historical choices and public perception shapes our use of nuclear energy.

This is a 10 credit module from the University-wide language programme.

The aims of the module are:

• To develop a range of skills within students and provide an early introduction to teaching for those interested in pursuing it, or a related field, as a career.
• To develop confidence and competence in communicating their subject.
• To provide opportunities to devise and develop science and mathematics projects and teaching methods appropriate to the age and ability of those the student is working with.

Photonics is the science of light. The Photonics module aims to equip students with a robust understanding of the fundamental physics underpinning the development and advancement of photonic technologies. It has keen focus on the physical principles at the base of the development that underpin sectors as diverse as healthcare, telecommunications, and defense and the links with classical and quantum background related to light. The vision is to provide the background of key aspects of technologies relevant for impactful careers in a sector that mirrors the innovation and resilience of the UK's £15.2 billion photonics economy.

The module is rooted in the exploration of electromagnetic energy and intensity, monochromatic fields, and complex formalism, and delves into the intricacies of field-matter interaction within both linear and nonlinear optics. Students will engage with core concepts such as, the complex refractive index, and the mechanisms of radiation-matter interaction, the principles underlying absorption and emission of light. By the end of this module, students will have acquired the essential background to understand the physics of photonic technology, the analytical tools to assess photonic systems, and the design skills to develop cutting-edge photonic devices and systems.

The aim of this module is to give students an overview of the uses of physics in medicine and allow them to gain an appreciation of how physics contributes to society. With a thorough grounding in the basics, students will be able to independently investigate more advanced techniques and draw informed conclusions about published health-related research. They will also be more prepared to go into healthcare or healthcare-adjacent careers.

The module aims to give a broad introduction to the theories and experiments of modern elementary particle physics, and to acquaint the student with the latest developments in the subject.

Particle phenomenology is introduced, followed by an exploration of the basic concepts of relativistic quantum mechanics, which predicts and explains anti-particles.

The fundamental interactions are described using Feynman diagrams, and Feynman's rules are used to convert these diagrams into amplitudes for scattering calculations to explain results from the big particle physics experiments.

The ideas of quantum field theory, which treats the field as the fundamental entity and all the particles and antiparticles as excitations of their respective fields, and which constitute the standard model of particle physics, are developed.

Qualitative concepts around symmetries and symmetry breaking are introduced to explain the pattern of particles that exist and the origin of the nucleons' mass, of which only 1% is explained by the explicit quark masses.

The module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the physics of semiconducting and magnetic nanodevices, with a particular emphasis on their applications in modern data storage and information processing technologies.

This is a 10 credit module from the University-wide language programme.

This advanced module is specifically designed to expand your research skills by engaging you in high-level scientific inquiry and complex problem-solving. You are expected to apply rigorous scientific methods and in-depth physics knowledge to address difficult open-ended problems with the aim of producing outcomes that could be worthy of publication.

Throughout this intensive project, you will be encouraged to deeply investigate a specialised area of physics that aligns with your knowledge, interests and academic goals. This will involve not only applying your specific expertise in particular areas of physics, but also pushing the boundaries of these fields to create innovative and original research outputs.

The goal of this Master's level project is to develop and practice a wide array of advanced skills, including:

• The ability to plan and execute a comprehensive and extended research project that could contribute new insights to the field.
• Proficiency in reviewing scientific literature to frame your research within the context of existing knowledge.
• Skills in critical analysis, allowing you to evaluate your results and those of others to understand the implications of your findings.
• Competence in scientific communication, enabling you to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively, potentially preparing your work for publication.

By the end of this module, you should have not only enhanced your practical understanding of applying general principles in real-world scenarios, but have the opportunity to produce research that meets the rigorous standards of academic journals, thereby setting a strong foundation for your future career in academia or industry.

Studying complex systems is vital because it enables us to understand and predict behaviours in real-world scenarios that are otherwise chaotic and unpredictable, from weather patterns to economic markets. This module offers students an essential understanding of the theoretical frameworks and analytical methods needed to approach the dynamical complexities of various physical systems.

Exploring universal concepts like oscillations and self-oscillations, resonances, emergent phenomena like synchronisation, bifurcations and chaos, it prepares students to tackle challenges in physics and related fields, encouraging a flexible and thorough approach to solving problems in complex systems. It aims to provide basic knowledge in non-linear dynamics and bifurcation theory.

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the foundational ideas of modern applications of quantum mechanics.

Radiotherapy and nuclear medicine are vital branches of medical physics, playing an important role in modern healthcare by enabling precise cancer treatments and advanced imaging techniques. This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the physical principles, technologies, and computational methods that underpin these medical applications.

A key focus will be on Monte Carlo methods, a powerful computational approach used to model radiation transport with high accuracy. Beyond its direct applications in medical physics, Monte Carlo modelling serves as a versatile tool in fields such as high-energy physics, space science, and radiation shielding.

With an emphasis on both theoretical concepts and practical implementation, the module provides students with a valuable skill set that is increasingly sought after in academia, industry, and clinical research. Graduates will be well-prepared to contribute to innovations in radiation science, shaping the future of medical and scientific advancements.

The aims of this module are:

• To develop skills in the mathematical modelling of real life situations.
• To develop the ability to work effectively in a group.

The aim of this module is:

• to derive the fundamental equations of fluid mechanics
• to develop students' expertise in solving simplified forms of these equations applicable to a variety of fluid flows
• to learn about some industrial and environmental applications of fluid mechanics

This module is designed to provide an in-depth exploration of the principles and capabilities of modern quantum technologies. The curriculum aims to bridge the gap between theoretical quantum mechanics and real-world applications, enabling students to grasp both the potential and the challenges of quantum technologies. Students will learn to critically assess the state of current technology and explore possible future directions for the development of quantum sensors, quantum information processing, including but not limited to quantum computing. Through detailed study the module aims to prepare students for advanced academic research or careers in the rapidly developing quantum technologies sector.

Photonics stands as a core platform of contemporary technology, driving revolution in fields ranging from telecommunications to healthcare. This Advanced Photonics module is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced (MSc-MPhys level) photonics architectures, devices, and their diverse applications in communication, sensing, and metrology. The module delves into the intricate theoretical and technological framework of photonic waveguides, exploring their roles in manipulating and guiding light with precision.

By engaging with the advanced principles of guided wave modelling and nonlinear photonic systems, students will gain insights into the underpinnings of optical manipulation. Ultrafast optics, a pivotal aspect of the curriculum, will equip students with the expertise to navigate and innovate in the realm of high-speed optical networks, an area of critical importance in our data-driven world, and ultrafast sensing.

Beyond the widespread ramifications of current technologies, the module explores photonics as a platform enabling multidisciplinary research. With applications spanning quantum computing, biomedical imaging, and even renewable energy, the knowledge garnered here is key for future scientists and engineers aspiring to drive innovation across a wide spectrum of disciplines.
The module builds upon a blend of theoretical foundations and practical problem-solving experiences. Students will be poised to contribute to, and shape, a technological market where photonics is already indispensable.

This module aims to give the student understanding of stochastic process, mathematical tools used to describe them, and application of these process to diverse interdisciplinary tasks, such as econo- and bio- processes.