Physics with Particle Physics (BSc)

Applicants come from a diverse range of backgrounds and we accept a broad range of qualifications. Special consideration will be given to mature applicants, and we are happy to consider applicants with other qualifications, including QAA-approved Access to HE courses.

Students from overseas should visit the International| pages for further information on the entry requirements from their country and English language requirements.  Royal Holloway International offers an International Foundation Programme and English language pre-sessional courses, allowing students the opportunity to develop their study skills and English language before starting their undergraduate degree.

We make decisions based on achieved or predicted grades, personal statements and references. More information on how your application will be assessed, and tips for your personal statement can be found on our Applying| pages.

All suitable applicants are invited to visit the Department for an interview, usually on one of our UCAS or Open Days. This also provides an opportunity to talk to members of staff and students, view our teaching and research facilities, explore the College and find out more about studying at Royal Holloway. We understand that some candidates, especially from overseas, may not be able to attend; if this is the case, our decision will be based on your UCAS application.

If you receive and accept an offer of a place, it may be possible to change the exact choice of degree programme when you register at the start of the course. However, if you are thinking of taking an MSci (four year) rather than a BSc (three year) degree course, we advise you to apply for the MSci in order to keep as much flexibility as possible. We can give you further advice on this when you come for interview.

• You will benefit from exceptional teaching quality – we are consistently near the top of the league tables.
• The course offers reasonable class sizes with a focus on small group teaching and good access to your lecturers.
• You will enjoy a friendly and informal atmosphere.
• You will discuss physics and learn from each other in a supportive learning environment.
• We are known for internationally top-class research at the cutting edge of particle physics, nanoscience and nanotechnology, experimental quantum computing, quantum matter at low temperatures, theoretical physics and biophysics.

This course will provide opportunities to develop and demonstrate the following learning outcomes:

• a broad knowledge of the inanimate physical universe at a level appropriate for a Bachelor’s degree
• a sound knowledge of the fundamental concepts of physics and how these may be applied to understand complex physical systems and address associated problems
• an understanding of the quantum and continuum descriptions of natural phenomena
• an appreciation of the microscopic and macroscopic structure of all the states (phases) of matter and their interactions with different forms of energy
• a knowledge and understanding of important physical laws and principles, and competence in the application of these principles to more diverse areas of physics and, where appropriate, to other disciplines
• a secure understanding of the experimental and/or theoretical techniques and diagnostic tools appropriate to the particular field of endeavour and an awareness of such techniques in other fields
• a critical approach to the gathering, collating, analysis and reporting of experimental data based on an understanding of errors and the limits of measurement
• an understanding of mathematical modelling and of the role of approximation.

Throughout the course, you will:

• appreciate and apply the core theories of physics
• demonstrate the methods and techniques of physics
• account for the boundaries of current physical knowledge and appreciate the issues involved in extending those boundaries
• develop an ability to use a wide range of transferable skills.

All undergraduate degree courses at Royal Holloway are based on the course unit system. This system provides an effective and flexible approach to study, while ensuring that our degrees have a coherent and developmental structure.

The Department’s website| gives detailed lists of the course units taken for each different degree.

View the full course specification for Physics with Particle Physics (BSc) in the Programme Specification Repository|.

The course has a modular structure, whereby students take 24 course units at the rate of eight per year. Some course units are compulsory while others are elective thereby offering flexibility and choice.

Teaching takes place in lectures, seminars, laboratory practical classes and problem-solving sessions. Outside class-time students participate in group projects and guided independent study and have access to the college’s comprehensive e-learning facility, ‘Moodle’ where there is a variety of resources available for students.

Assessment is usually by two-hour examination at the end of the year. Coursework and in-class tests also contribute to the assessment of many course units. Experimental work is generally assessed by written reports or oral presentation. A minimum of six of the eight course units must be passed with a minimum score of 40 per cent each year.

Highly advanced numerical skills and the ability to solve a wide range of problems are among the most sought after skills in today’s competitive job market. Your knowledge of physics coupled with your analytical, numerical and technical skills will make you attractive to a wide variety of employers.

In recent years our graduates have entered many different careers including scientific research and teaching, as well as gaining jobs in computing, financial services, accountancy and defence solutions.  Visit the department’s website to  find out what our graduates are doing now| or see the Institute of Physics| to see other career opportunities for physicists