menu icon
MSc by Research Nuclear Physics

Different course options

Full time | The University of Manchester | 12 months | SEP-25

Study mode

Full time

Duration

12 months

Start date

SEP-25

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

MSc - Master of Science

Subject areas

Nuclear Physics

Course type

Research

Course Summary

Programme description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Manchester is one of the largest and most active departments of physics in the UK. We have a long tradition of excellence in both teaching and research, and have interests in most areas of contemporary research.

The field of nuclear physics aims to understand the structure and dynamics of nuclear systems. The field is motivated to answer questions on how the Universe is evolving, how stars develop and how the basic constituents of matter interact. Our research also has applications that benefit society in diverse areas, from medicine and security to power production.

The atomic nucleus is a unique laboratory where the microscopic quantum world merges with the mesoscopic world. The structure, shape and lifetime of nuclei are driven by the interplay of the strong, weak, and electromagnetic forces between individual nucleons. Remarkably these complex many-body systems display regularities and simple patterns that arise from the underlying nature of the nuclear force. Through precise experimental measurement, these effects and their implications can be studied and address the challenge of understanding the atomic nucleus from first principles, as well as understanding the influence that the properties of atomic nuclei have on astrophysical processes, on other areas of physics and on applications.

Research conducted by the Manchester group contributes to this international effort and our students have played leading roles in recent scientific highlights.

The Manchester group collaborates with researchers across the world at international facilities such as CERN and Argonne National Laboratory. Our postgraduate MSc and PhD projects offer the opportunity to work at the frontier of the field providing training in state-of-the-art experimental techniques of transfer reactions, gamma-ray spectroscopy and measurements of hyperfine atomic effects using lasers.

Coursework and assessment

A research project is undertaken under the supervision of a staff member throughout the year together with lectures. Full time is spent working on the project unless attending lectures. A dissertation will be submitted at the year-end. We provide a range of skills training which is particularly focussed on the needs of physics research.

Career opportunities

A research degree in physics is highly regarded by employers as evidence of a thorough training in numerate problem-solving and opens a wide range of possible career choices. In addition to continuing physics research in industry, an MSc provides the entry level training to undertake a PhD in physics.

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£4,786

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£28,000

Entry requirements

The standard academic entry requirement for a Masters research programme will be a Lower Second UK honours degree, or international equivalent, in a relevant science or engineering discipline.