In the first year you will study introductory chemistry, physics and mathematics modules.
You will take practical chemistry classes in our teaching laboratories and a special module on data analysis and scientific computing.
Fundamental Chemistry Theory and Practical
This module shows how trends in chemical properties can be related to the structure of the Periodic Table and rationalise descriptive inorganic chemistry.
To provide a fundamental understanding of the basics of organic chemistry, including nomenclature, molecular structure and bonding, stereochemistry and the chemical reactivity of common functional groups and reaction types through an understanding of their electronic properties.
To provide an introduction to fundamental physical aspects of chemistry, which underpins all areas of Chemistry - emphasis will be placed on being able to apply knowledge, especially in solving problems.
To introduce a range of chemical techniques appropriate to the study of inorganic, organic and physical chemistry at first year level, which will act as a foundation for more advanced work in subsequent years.
From Newton to Einstein
How does the world really work?
We’ll take you from Newton’s mechanics, the pinnacle of the scientific revolution and the foundation of our understanding of modern physics, right through to our current understanding of physics with Einstein’s theory of relativity and quantum mechanics.
This module will underpin your entire physics degree. It contains all the ideas and principles that form the basis of our modern world. As you’ll find out, some of these ideas are very strange indeed.
You’ll study:
- Newton’s laws of mechanics
- The physics of waves and oscillations
- Electricity and magnetism
- Quantum mechanics and the foundations of modern physics
- Einstein’s relativity
Computing For Physical Science
You’ll receive training in basic computing techniques using Python, and will be introduced to their use in solving physical problems.
You’ll spend two hours in computer classes and a one hour lecture each week.
Basic Mathematical Methods for Physics
This year-long module covers the mathematical background required for the majority of undergraduate-level study of physics and astronomy. It will complement the material studied in other first-year physics degree modules.
The structure of the module has been designed to ease students into the level of maths required for the early stages of your degree.
The topics covered in this module are:
- Complex numbers
- Differentiation and Taylor Series representations
- Stationary points of two-dimensional functions
- Integration techniques for functions of single and multiple variables
- Partial derivatives of functions of multiple variables
- Conic sections in plane geometry
- Fourier representation of functions and the Fourier transform
- Matrices and eigenvalue problems
- Solving first-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs)
- Solving homogeneous and inhomogeneous linear constant coefficient ODEs
Optional modules
Introduction to Green Chemistry and Processing
In this module you’ll look at green chemistry in its broadest sense, covering the fundamental concepts and chemistry involved in making chemical processes cleaner and more environmentally benign.
You’ll spend one hour per week in lectures, seminars and workshops over the whole year studying this module.
Frontiers in Chemistry
This module will introduce you to selected topics at the forefront of current research in chemistry from a physical chemistry perspective.
Example topics include:
- nanochemistry and its applications
- energy generation and storage technologies
- chemistry in the digital age
- the chemistry of ions
- the application of advanced photon sources
The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the
module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on Tuesday 10 August 2021.
In the second year, lectures will concentrate on physical chemistry, spectroscopy, quantum mechanics and electromagnetic fields. There are laboratory classes in both chemistry and physics.
There is a choice of optional modules, covering specialised topics such as nanotechnology and analytical chemistry.
Core modules
Core Laboratory Work
This module builds on the practical, analytical and communication skills developed in the first year and introduces experiments across the range of chemistry, based on your second year theory modules.
You’ll spend around 10 hours per week in practicals for this module.
Intermediate Inorganic Chemistry
This module aims to survey the classical and new chemistry of the main group elements. To use group theory as a tool in the analysis of vibrational spectra in inorganic chemistry. To give a concise introduction to the organometallic chemistry of the transition metals. To use multinuclear NMR spectroscopy as a tool for the characterisation of molecules.
Energy, Spectroscopy and Solid State Chemistry
In this module you'll study the physical principles underlying chemical phenomena, with emphasis on energy, quantum mechanics and spectroscopy. You'll also be introduced to solid-state chemistry, including the structure, characterisation, energetics and the band theory of solids.
You’ll attend two hours of lectures each week in this module.
The Quantum World
This module provides an introduction to the theory and elementary applications of quantum mechanics, a theory that is one of the key achievements of physics. Quantum mechanics is an elegant theoretical construct that is both beautiful and mysterious. Some of the predictions of quantum mechanics are wholly counter-intuitive and there are aspects of it that are not properly understood. Nonetheless, it has been thoroughly tested empirically for nearly a century and, wherever predictions can be made, they agree with experiment.
The notes, videos, and simulations for the first semester of The Quantum World are all publicly available and freely accessible. Check out the notes online, which include embedded links to the videos and interactive simulations.
You’ll study:
- Quantum vs classical states
- Fourier series and transforms: translating from position to momentum space
- The Heisenberg uncertainty principle (particularly from a Fourier perspective)
- The time-dependent and time-independent Schrödinger equation
- Bound and unbound states, scattering and tunnelling
- Wavepackets
- The subtleties of the particle in a box
- Operators, observables, and the thorny measurement problem
- Matrix mechanics and Dirac notation
- The quantum harmonic oscillator
- Conservation and correspondence principles
- Angular momentum
- Stern-Gerlach experiment
- Spin
- Zeeman effect, Rabi oscillations
- 2D and 3D systems
- Degeneracies
- Hydrogen atom and the radial Schrödinger equation
- Entanglement and non-locality
- ... and, of course, that ever-frustrating feline...
Classical Fields
In this module you will explore the concepts of scalar and vector fields. You will learn the mathematics of vector calculus, which give us a powerful tool for studying the properties of fields and understanding their physics.
You will then study its application in two important and contrasting areas of physics: fluid dynamics, and electromagnetism. We use examples such as water draining from a sink or wind in a tornado to provide intuitive illustrations of the application of vector calculus, which can then help us to understand the behaviour of electric and magnetic fields.
You’ll study:
- The fundamental principles and techniques of vector calculus, and methods to visualise and calculate the properties of scalar and vector fields
- The application of vector calculus to fluid flow problems
- Maxwell’s equations of electrodynamics, and their applications in electrostatics, magnetic fields and electromagnetic waves.
Experimental Techniques and Instrumentation
In this module students will receive:
- an introduction to the the basic techniques and equipment used in experimental physics
- training in the analysis and interpretation of experimental data
- a basic practical introduction to geometrical and physical optics
- opportunities to observe phenomena discussed in theory modules
- training in the skills of record keeping and writing scientific reports
Optional modules
Principles of Analytical Chemistry
You’ll be introduced to the principles of analytical chemistry, including the principal types of instrumentation used and the statistical treatment of analytical results.
You’ll attend two lectures each week studying this module.
Force and Function at the Nanoscale
We will study some of the fundamental forces at the nanoscale and look at the role of key concepts such as entropy. We will also learn how we can visualise and measure the nanoscale structures that form.
The nanoscale world is very different from our regular experience. Thermal energy pushes and pulls everything towards a state of disorder whilst nanoscale forces allow for materials to resist this and stay together. We will study some of the fundamental forces at the nanoscale and look at the role of key concepts such as entropy. We will also learn how we can visualise and measure the nanoscale structures that form.
While the forces we will study operate over distances as small as 1 nanometre we will explore how these concepts are responsible for phenomena in our everyday world we often don’t even think about:
- Why is a droplet spherical?
- What is going on when you scramble an egg?
- How can a gecko walk across a perfectly smooth ceiling?
- Why do you use soap when you wash?
- Why don’t oil and water mix?
Sustainable Chemistry
This module covers material related to developing a more sustainable approach to chemistry. You will learn what constitutes sustainable chemistry, the significance of new technologies such as synthetic biology, and recognise the problems in achieving sustainability.
The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the
module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on
You will study advanced modules in core physics and chemistry.
A research project will apply your theoretical, computational and experimental techniques to an area of your choice.
Core modules
Chemical Bonding and Reactivity
To provide a fundamental understanding of molecular structure and of the requirements for reactivity.
To introduce modern electronic structure theory and demonstrate how it can be applied to determine properties such as molecular structure, spectroscopy and reactivity.
Solids, Interfaces and Surfaces
This course aims to teach the relationship between structure and properties of solids, structure of Solids and characterisation.
It aims to teach a general introduction to Interfaces and Surfaces.
Fourier Methods
Knowledge of waves and oscillations is needed to understand many physical phenomena. In this module you’ll learn some very useful mathematical tools (Fourier methods) for describing them.
Knowledge of waves and oscillations is needed to understand many physical phenomena. In this module you’ll learn some very useful mathematical tools (Fourier methods) for describing them.
You’ll study:
- what Fourier methods are and what are their interesting properties
- how to characterise periodic and non-periodic functions
- how to solve optical diffraction problem
- how Fourier methods help in solving differential equations
Atoms, Photons and Fundamental Particles
This module will introduce students to the physics of atoms, nuclei and the fundamental constituents of matter and their interactions. The module will also develop the quantum mechanical description of these.
Topics to be covered are:
- Approximation techniques first order perturbation theory, degeneracies, second order perturbation theory, transition rates, time-dependent perturbation theory, Fermi's golden rule
- Particle Physics protons and neutrons, antiparticles, particle accelerators and scattering experiments, conservation laws, neutrinos, leptons, baryons and hadrons, the quark model and the strong interaction, weak interactions, standard model
- Introduction to atomic physics review of simple model of hydrogen atom, Fermi statistics and Pauli principle, aufbau principle, hydrogenic atoms, exchange, fine structure and hyperfine interactions, dipole interaction, selection rules and transition rates
- Lasers optical polarization and photons, optical cavities, population inversions, Bose statistics and stimulated emission, Einstein A and B coefficients
- Nuclear Physics Radioactivity, decay processes, alpha, beta and gamma emission, detectors, stability curves and binding energies, nuclear fission, fusion, liquid drop and shell models.
Introduction to Solid State Physics
Solid state physics underpins almost every technological development around us, from solar cells and LEDs to silicon chips and mobile phones.
The aim of this module is to introduce to you the fundamental topics in solid state physics. We start by looking at why atoms and molecules come together to form a crystal structure. We then follow the electronic structure of these through to interesting electronic, thermal and magnetic properties that we can harness to make devices.
You’ll study:
- Why atoms and molecules come together to form crystal structures
- The description of crystal structures, reciprocal lattices, diffraction and Brillouin zones
- Nearly-free electron model – Bloch's theorem, band gaps from electron Bragg scattering and effective masses
- Band theory, Fermi surfaces, qualitative picture of transport, metals, insulators and semiconductors
- Semiconductors – doping, inhomogeneous semiconductors, basic description of pn junction
- Phonons normal modes of ionic lattice, quantization, Debye theory of heat capacities, acoustic and optical phonons
- Optical properties of solids absorption and reflection of light by metals, Brewster angle, dielectric constants, plasma oscillations
- Magnetism – Landau diamagnetism, paramagnetism, exchange interactions, Ferromagnetism, antiferromagnetism, neutron scattering, dipolar interactions and domain formation, magnetic technology
Physics Project
You’ll carry out a project within the areas of chemical and molecular physics, which may be experimental or theoretical in nature.
Spending around two hours per week in lectures and tutorials, you’ll work in pairs to plan your project under the guidance of a project supervisor.
Advanced Laboratory Techniques
This course aims to teach advanced experimental techniques in chemistry.
To provide experience in the recording, analysis and reporting of physical data.
To put into practice the methods of accessing, assessing and critically appraising the chemical literature.
Chemistry and Molecular Physics Literature and Communication Skills
You’ll undertake a literature review on a selected topic in the area of chemistry and molecular physics, presenting your work as a written report.
You’ll also develop your communication skills through group work, presentations and writing for the general public.
You’ll spend around two hours per week in workshops for this module.
Optional modules
Structure Determination Methods
A general introduction to lasers, including laser radiation and its properties will be given.
A number of current laser spectroscopic methods will be reviewed, which allow the determination of vibrational frequencies and structures.
Examples will cover ground and excited state neutral molecules, radicals and complexes, as well as cations of these.
An introduction to modern diffraction methods will be given, involving neutrons, electrons and X-rays.
Applications will cover solids (crystalline and amorphous), liquids and gases.
Throughout, there will be extensive examples from the research literature.
Bioinorganic and Metal Coordination Chemistry
The aim of this module is to provide you with an understanding of coordination chemistry in the context of macrocyclic, supramolecular and bioinorganic chemistry and its applications in metal extraction and synthesis.
You will gain an appreciation of the importance of metals in biological systems, and be able to explain the relationship between the structure of the active centres of metallo-proteins and enzymes and their biological functions.
The module is assessed by a two-hour written exam.
Catalysis
This module aims to provide a framework for understanding the action of heterogeneous catalysts in terms of adsorption/desorption processes and for understanding catalyst promotion in terms of chemical and structural phenomenon and also describes a wide variety of homogeneous catalytic processes based on organo-transition metal chemistry.
Topics in Inorganic Chemistry
This module covers inorganic mechanisms and the overarching fundamental principles of greener and sustainable chemistry as applied to processes, inorganic reaction mechanisms, and discussion on the theme of greener and sustainable chemistry
The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the
module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on
You will carry out an in-depth research project. As well as formal lectures, you'll develop your problem-solving and communication skills.
Core modules
MSci Chemistry Research Project
You will be welcomed into one of the research groups within the School of Chemistry to undertake an in-depth research project.
All projects will involve a review of relevant published work and the planning and execution of a research topic under the guidance of two supervisors.
Natural Science and CMP Physics Project
The module will consist of a project the aim of which is to solve a practical or theoretical problem.
Practical problems will be undertaken in research laboratories and typically students work in groups on their project.
Optional modules
Functional Medical Imaging
The techniques for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) are explored. The course aims to introduce the brain imaging technique of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), giving an overview of the physics involved in this technique. The electromagnetic techniques of electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetoencephalography (MEG) will then be outlined, and the relative advantages of the techniques described.
Semiconductor Physics
This module introduces you to the physics and applications of Semiconductors. Semiconductors are key materials of the current Information Age. They enabled most of the devices and technologies we use everyday, such as computers, internet, mobile phones. Semiconductors help us to mitigate global warming, data theft, end of the Moore’s law and other global challenges.
This module includes detailed overview of the Semiconductors past, present and future, and provides skills and knowledge essential for a future Semiconductor researcher or engineer.
You’ll study:
- Physics and applications of conventional semiconductor materials and devices, for example p-n diodes and field-effect transistors
- Physics and applications of novel semiconductor materials, quantum materials, nanostructures, low dimensional materials, such as graphene and quantum dots
- Current and future semiconductor challenges and technologies, such as efficient solar cells, ultrasensitive phone cameras and quantum computers.
Quantum Dynamics
Understanding the dynamics of quantum systems is crucial, not just for describing the fundamental physics of atoms, but also for the development of exciting new quantum-based technologies. This module will equip you with the key theoretical concepts and methods needed to explore how quantum systems evolve with time.
You’ll study:
- Connections between the dynamics of quantum systems and that of more familiar classical ones
- When (and how) to use approximations that allow complex problems to be made much simpler
- The extent to which the evolution of quantum states can be controlled
- How to put theory into practice using one of IBM’s prototype quantum computers.
Advanced Physical Chemistry
Building on your knowledge from the previous years' modules in inorganic chemistry, you’ll study topics including:
- electron transfer pathways
- inorganic chemistry in biological systems
- the principles of molecular and supramolecular photochemistry
- applications of inorganic photochemistry
- photocatalysis
You’ll attend two lectures each week in this module.
Inorganic and Materials Chemistry
In this module you will explore inorganic photochemistry, electron transport pathways, molecular and supramolecular photochemistry, and artificial photosynthesis together with the principles that underpin green chemistry.
You will attend two lectures per week in this module.
Molecular Interactions and Supramolecular Assembly
In this module you’ll learn about the importance of intermolecular forces, across a wide cross-section of subject areas from biology through to supramolecular chemical systems.
You'll study molecular organisation, assembly and recognition in biological and supramolecular systems.
In addition to appreciating the rich chemistry underlying self-assembling systems, you'll learn about the phenomena that impact on the properties of materials and important interactions in biology.
You'll attend two lectures per week in this module.
The Politics, Perception and Philosophy of Physics
In this module you'll gain an appreciation of the broad societal impact of physics (and science in general). You'll be introduced to the politics surrounding science policy (on, e.g., global warming/renewable energy R&D) and research funding. You'll also explorre some of the key ideas in the philosophy of physics and science, particularly as they relate to public perception of scientific research.
The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the
module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on