Physics with Medical Physics, MSci (Hons)

Course summary

About Physics at the University of NottinghamWe have a proud history of learning and innovation. Research undertaken within the School of Physics and Astronomy, by Professor Sir Peter Mansfield, was recognised with a 2003 Nobel Prize for the invention of Magnetic Resonance Imaging body scanners. This technology has already helped more than half a billion people worldwide. More recently, our use of quantum technologies to understand how the brain works is changing the way that neurological conditions are detected and treated.We are conducting ground-breaking investigations into dark energy – the unknown force that is causing the universe to expand at an accelerating rate. Our courses offer a wide range of optional modules, so you can explore new areas of physics and specialise in the ones that interest you the most. You can study topics as diverse as cosmology, nanoscience, and medical imaging and learn from experts in those fields. What’s more, there is flexibility to transfer between most physics courses after the first year.We encourage students to share their fascination with physics with the wider community through our outreach programme. This programme can help you further develop skills such as organisation, communication and team working. We also have an active student society, PhysSoc, which organises social events throughout the year. Our mentoring scheme gives new starters the opportunity to connect with more experienced physics students, helping you settle into university life.Physics with Medical Physics MSciThis accredited degree will give you real practical experience of medical physics. You will benefit from specialist lectures by senior practising medical physicists. Tailored modules such as Functional Medical Imaging and Molecular Biophysics will help you develop an advanced understanding of this area.Our unique fourth year will develop your professional and transferrable skills with immersive, student-centred learning. You will focus on fewer but more specialised areas and complete a year-long research project. Under the guidance of our expert staff you will benefit from a range of learning styles. These include group work, projects, delivering seminars and independent learning.

Your first year will teach you the core elements of physics. The Frontiers in Physics module will introduce you to medical physics. You will learn the key mathematical and computational skills for your degree. In the second year, you will build on the core skills developed in year one to study aspects of physics including quantum theory. In addition, you will have the option to specialise in areas of physics that particularly interest you. In year three you will develop your specialist study of medical physics in the Medical Imaging modules. Optional modules will allow you to tailor your degree into an area that particularly interests you. You will also work on a year-long research project in a specialist area of your choice. In the final year you will work on a range of activities, projects and presentations. You will also carry out a major research project, working on a cutting-edge problem in medical physics.