Physics and Astronomy at

The University of Glasgow

Why physics and astronomy?

• Physics and/or astronomy offers a fundamental understanding of the way the Universe works;

• It brings you to the forefront of technology;

• It opens career paths in science, engineering, industry, finance, teaching…

What do physics graduates do?

Careers Data: Institute of Physics

What is our aim in Glasgow?

• To teach you to use physics and maths to investigate the universe;

• To encourage an in-depth and integrated understanding of modern physics and astronomy;

• To promote a wide transferable skills set to prepare you for many possible careers.

First year physics (P1)

• The class meets daily, at 9am or at 1pm.

• There are weekly tutorials, and weekly laboratory workshops

• Topics studied include optics, waves and lasers; dynamics and relativity; quantum phenomena, electricity and magnetism

P1 lecture in the Kelvin lecture theatre Students at work in the lab

The first year labs have recently been refurbished; second year labs will be done this summer.

Students have free access to our up-to-date computing cluster (including free printing!)

First year astronomy (A1)• The class meets daily at 10am.• There are weekly tutorials and fortnightly practical sessions at the Observatory.• Topics include stellar physics, positional astronomy, cosmology, observations.

The University Observatory Working with a radio telescope

Though 1st year labs take place in the daytime, students have access to our 16” Schmidt-Cassegrain and our solar and radio telescopes, for their own observations or for projects in later years.

images made by undergrads using the 16”.

Exploring the Cosmos (EXCOS1)

• A non-mathematical astronomy course

• Can be taken by any student.

• EXCOS1 (or Astronomy 1) is required for the Physics with Astrophysics degree.

Progression

• The Glasgow ethos is to allow students to keep their options for as long as possible.

• The choice of subjects can be made at the end of 2nd year.

• The choice B.Sc. (4 yrs) or M.Sci. (5 yrs) can be made in the middle of 3rd year.

• Getting into the M.Sci. course requires a ‘B’ in second year; B.Sc. requires a pass.

Levels 3-5 - Transferable Skills• Alongside the academic work of the

Honours programme, students work on:– oral and written communication– planning and team-working – programming and IT– ‘skills revolution’

Students undertake extended project work, seminars and poster presentations

Student activities

The Departmental common room is used for relaxation, private study, and social events

The student societies organise a programme of guest lectures and social events for students and staff

Student activitiesThe department organises other educational and social activities for students, for example:

2nd year astronomy observing weekend

1st year physics ‘Meet and Greet’

1st year astronomy dark skies nights

2nd year physics awayday to the Ardrossan wind farm & Hunterston power station

Why physics and astronomy?

Our degree options promote -

• A logical and numerate mind;• The ability to solve problems;• Communication skills, developed through

report-writing and presentations;• Computing and experimental skills;• Teamwork and flexibility (essential for lab

work and projects).

Why Glasgow?

Glasgow Uni Physics and Astronomy offers:

Student-centred learning

Excellent teaching (10/10 in Guardian guide 2008)

One-to-one student support

A research-led department (rated 5)

Student research opportunities

An attractive campus in a cosmopolitan city

Faculty entry requirements• SQA HighersBBBB (inc. two science/maths) BBB/ABC (all science/maths)ABBB (at least one science/maths)

• A LevelsBBC (inc. two science/maths)BCC (all sciences/maths)BBB (at least one science/maths)

• For physics/astronomy - higher maths is required, and higher physics is strongly recommended

• Though not a requirement, students intending an M.Sci., typically obtain AAAA at SQA higher, or equivalent.