Third year Physics modules

I am referring to the following modules:

1. The quantum world
2. The relativistic Universe
3. Electromagnetism
4. Astrophysics

Is anyone able to give their views? Here are the details I am most interested in:

1. How interesting they were in comparison to each other
2. The quality of teaching material/tutorials
3. Which one was hardest/easiest?
4. Which ones lend themselves better to postgraduate level?

I know I wish to do no.1, but I am undecided in terms of my second option.

Thanks in advance.

1) Interesting is a relative concept. The quantum world is generally people's favourite followed by astrophysics, the relativistic universe and then electromagnetism.

2) All are extremely good although middle book of the relativistic universe (Observational Cosmology), while very interesting, is beyond undergraduate level and a constant source of misery.

3) On the basis of grade 1 passes it is the quantum world (~30%), astrophysics (~20%), electromagnetism (~15%), the relativistic universe (~12%). The latter two in particular are known for their difficulty and high failure rates.

4) It depends on what you want to do. If astrophysics is your thing then the relativistic universe, astrophysics and electromagnetism are likely to be the best three to choose. Alternatively a more classical/quantum bias would benefit from electromagnetism, the quantum world and astrophysics. IIRC the only one of the modules listed that isn't a requirement for Institute of Physics accreditation is the relativistic universe. When it comes down to it however your project (SXP390) is the most important thing to consider when looking at postgraduate study. Not from a subject point of view, although that is helpful, but from the point of view of the grade you achieve.

1. Does The Physical World (I am going into first year, not second) cover enough electromagnetism to make the jump to Theoretical Physics MSc doable? Not just doable, but maybe even not much of an issue?

2. Right now, it's a toss up between astrophysics and the relativistic universe. If you had the same aspirations as myself (the MSc in Theoretical Physics), knowing what you know, which do you think you'd profit more from?

3. Maybe I am relegating electromagnetism due to my ignorance - if so, please let me know.

It does appear that's the case which is... disappointing. The project module is often looked at as part of an application for postgraduate study. You'll probably be able to get away with it for an MSc though.



No, it doesn't cover the essential maths and only mentions Maxwell's equations in passing. You really need the electromagnetism module for that.



Neither, I'd do electromagnetism. If your goal is not astrophysics or cosmology related then you're better off sticking with quantum and classical physics.



You are, electromagnetism is the cornerstone of modern physics and will be a core component of any physics degree.

Just out of interest what are your level 3 maths options?

If I take quantum world and electromagnetism obviously I satisfy 2 of those 5. I am assuming that the physical world and electromagnetism (and some parts of the math modules) will also cover classical dynamics. So I suppose my question would focus predominantly on the latter two.

A good selection. I'd liked to have done MS324 and MST326.



They'd all be covered by the physical world (S207 or its replacement S217), the quantum world and electromagnetism. I assume you'll be doing MST210?

Yes, it's compulsory alongside the other one. Now that you mention it, do you have any information regarding the changes in S217?