Natural Philosophy (Physics)

Programme Structure & Content

Courses are available from first to fourth year. Physics is the major component of the degree, and you will acquire a knowledge of its theory and practice, sufficient to equip you for a Physics career if you choose. If you would like to emphasise the philosophical side of the subject, you can tailor your syllabus in first and second year to give yourself the choice at the end of the second year of Philosophy and Physics or Single Honours Philosophy. Alternatively, if you have a stronger interest in Mathematics you can take options that allow you to choose Mathematics and Physics at the end of second year.

First Year
The Physical Universe gives an overview of some of the aims and achievements of physics, including 24 lectures on Astronomy. You are also introduced to the fundamental subjects of Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism, and practical work covering Experimental Physics and Physical Computing. The Mathematics component includes Calculus and Algebra and the Philosophical component includes Formal Logic 1 & 2, a study of the logical relations that underlie the concept of proof, and Truth & Reason.

Second Year
Physics concentrates on the following areas: Dynamical Phenomena, including oscillations and waves, and an Introduction to Quantum Mechanics and Relativity. An extended course on Advanced Philosophy is taken along with an independent course on the History & Philosophy of Science, covering science from the 18th to 20th centuries. You have two optional subject courses, which can be chosen from a wide range of subjects, but it is common to take two additional physics courses from the selection Light Science, Space Science & Remote Sensing or Practical Optics & Electronics.

Third & Fourth Year (Honours)
The Honours years are 75% Physics and 25% Philosophy and related subjects. A balanced selection of Pure and Applied Physics topics are chosen from those available for Honours physics students. There is less emphasis on laboratory work than in the Science degree. A choice of Philosophy courses includes further study of either Logic or the Theory of Knowledge. Everyone undertakes a final year project from a choice of subjects that usually covers the History of Physics, the Philosophy of Physics or, simply, Physics.

Teaching & Assessment

Most topics involve some continuous assessment. The proportion of continuous assessment and project work increases through the four year Honours programme.