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The MPhys Physics program inspires you to explore the world and cosmos around us. You'll acquire the ability to precisely quantify our surroundings, create explanatory models, and use these frameworks to predict the unknown. Physicists hail from diverse backgrounds with varied talents, yet share a unifying curiosity about the 'why' and particularly the 'how' of natural phenomena.Throughout your education, you'll cultivate an adaptable skillset for post-graduation life. From examining subatomic particles detectable only indirectly to investigating the universe's most massive black holes, this discipline prepares you to quickly adjust and apply your expertise to evolving challenges.You'll study areas including fields and forces, photonics and optics, and thermal physics, while delving into quantum mechanics, laser physics, and profound concepts in quantum theory and astrophysics. Mathematical foundations will be strengthened to deepen your physical comprehension. Advanced years feature Electromagnetism and Laser Physics, Quantum Theory and Solid State, plus Statistical, Nuclear and Particle Physics, where you'll engage with cutting-edge research alongside specialists.The MPhys offers deeper physics knowledge than the BSc (hons), with specialization options and critical examination of contemporary physics topics. Your independent research project takes center stage, showcasing subject mastery through sophisticated experimental or theoretical methods.Heriot-Watt ranks second in Scotland for Physics based on staff-student ratios (Guardian 2024), ensuring personalized learning. You'll have direct access to academic advisors for program guidance, industry insights, additional support, and faculty connections. This approach contributes to our second-place ranking for student experience in Scottish physics programs (Guardian 2024).Career opportunities include:Information Technology SpecialistsSTEM Associate ProfessionalsScientific ResearchersEducators
Year 1 Standard entry requirements - Highers AAAB (over two sittings). Must include Physics and Maths, with one at A. A-Levels BBB- AAB. Must include Physics and Maths. International Baccalaureate 30 points. Must include Physics and Maths, both at Higher Level 5. BTEC Extended Diploma DDM. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths. HNC A in graded unit. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths. HND BB in graded unit. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths. Please check that you meet our University-wide National 5/GCSE (or equivalent) English and Maths requirements. Year 1 Minimum entry requirements - Highers BBBC (over two sittings). Must include Physics and Maths, both at B. A-Levels BCC. Must include Physics and Maths with one at B. International Baccalaureate 28 points. Must include Physics and Maths, both at Higher Level 5. BTEC Extended Diploma DMM. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths. HNC B in graded unit. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths. HND BB in graded unit. Must be relevant science subject including sufficient Physics and Maths. Year 2 - Advanced Highers AB. Must include Advanced Higher Physics and Maths, and meet Year 1 Higher AAAB requirements. A-Levels AAB. Must include Physics and Maths. International Baccalaureate 34 points. Must include Physics and Maths at HL 6. BTEC Extended Diploma DDD. Must be in relevant science subject, including sufficient Physics and Maths. HNC A in graded unit (Standard entry) or B in graded unit (Access Threshold eligible only, where additional suitable maths qualification achieved). HNC must include 120 SCQF credit points and sufficient Physics and Maths. HND AA (standard entry) or AB / BA (Access Threshold eligible only). Must include sufficient Physics and Maths. HND BB will potentially be considered for Access Threshold eligible applicants who have achieved additional suitable maths qualification. Global College Successful completion of our Science with Accelerator Programme. The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5. TOEFL iBT - 79 (including reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20, and writing 21).