In the Master's Programme in Computational Physics you will learn how to translate a mathematical model of a physical phenomenon into a robust computer program and then how to analyse the results from your calculations. You will study courses in programming, mathematical and numerical methods and deepen your knowledge in physics.

This two-year programme gives you advanced knowledge and broad qualifications in the application of numerical methods and modern computational techniques on a range of physical problems, while continuing your physics education with advanced courses in classical and modern physics. You are provided with a basic course block in mathematical methods, high level language programming and numerical methods. This is followed by advanced courses in statistical physics and in the course in computational physics, you will learn how to use program packages in the form of numerical libraries to model physical phenomena. During the second year you will choose to specialise in subjects like quantum chemistry, condensed matter physics, analytical mechanics, numerical methods, machine learning or how to use large parallel computers.

The last phase of the programme consists of the master thesis project, where you get to apply your acquired model building skills to take on current problems in modern physics. With support from an experienced supervisor you will be trained in planning, performing and reporting a research project. We offer the possibility to carry out long projects, up to one year, either in one of our research groups at the department or through a company outside of the university, giving you direct experience of the private sector working environment.

More information

Before starting on one of the Master’s programmes you should have passed a course/courses covering the following areas of quantum mechanics:

• Basic concepts and methods in non-relativistic quantum mechanics
• the Schrödinger equation
• The wave function and its interpretation
• Operators
• One-dimensional potentials
• The free particle
• The harmonic oscillator, ladder operators
• Matrix representation
• The uncertainty principle
• The formalism of quantum mechanics
• Schrödinger equation in three dimensions
• The hydrogen atom and hydrogenic atoms
• Angular momentum and spin
• Many-particle systems, in particular atoms
• Time-independent and time-dependent perturbation theory, fine structure, Zeeman effect, emission and absorption of radiation
• Variational calculus

Strong academic support and networking possibilities

Throughout your MSc studies, several courses are focused on independent studies and group projects. We aim to provide a good support in your programme and teachers and study advisors are always accessible for questions or guidance. Due to the large number of teachers you will meet during your courses, you are offered several ways to get in contact with the research of your preference. If you are more interested in working outside the academic field, it is possible to involve yourself in projects with collaborators from relevant companies or public institutions. This is a perfect opportunity to gain broad experience during your studies.

Career opportunities

With this degree, you will have modern, up-to-date knowledge in physics and computational science. Your ability to understand, analyse and translate a great variety of problems to computer models is requested in high-tech industries and research companies and a large fraction of our alumni work with modelling and programming. This degree also has a wider application and your skills are attractive in different areas ranging from academic particle physics over medical imaging all the way to fund analyst in the Bank of England!