Prepare to embark on a fascinating journey! This module traces the electrifying path from classical wave theory to mind-bending quantum mechanics along the way you will have to master the mathematics behind this journey, from cracking the code of Ordinary Differential Equations, through to using this to model quantum behaviour.  

Then dive into the heart of matter with condensed matter physics, exploring interatomic forces, crystal structures, and the secrets of bulk properties. As you surf the waves of oscillations, you'll discover the profound connections between sound, mechanics, and quantum mysteries. Plus, develop practical research skills in our labs, where investigations await. 

You’ll study topics such as: 

• The mathematical arts through differential equations, vector calculus, and linear algebra

• The mysteries of condensed matter, from interatomic forces to thermal properties

• The journey from sound waves to quantum wave mechanics, bridging classic and quantum worlds

• Acquiring essential lab skills, including scientific conventions, ethical standards, error management, and hands-on investigations

• Embarking on an exciting academic adventure, blending mathematics, condensed matter, quantum physics, and practical lab experiences

In this module, delve deep into the enigmatic realms of atomic and nuclear processes. Explore the heart of matter, unravelling atomic structures, radioactive mysteries, and nuclear reactions.  

You’ll study topics such as: 

• The links between mathematics and programming, calculus, linear algebra, and mathematical functions

• The atomic universe with insights into fundamental models, the periodic table, and nuclear models 

• Nuclear reactions, decay processes, and cutting-edge detection techniques

• The Standard Model and beyond – how the strong, weak and nuclear forces give rise to the world as we experience it

You will be taught using lectures, tutorials and practical computer sessions.

This module helps you to discover the varied career prospects that await physics graduates. To give you the skills to be able to fulfil that outcome, we engage in student led projects alongside industrial partners where you will be required to use the entirety of your physics knowledge to be successful. We to dive deep into the skills essential for a successful career in physics and focus on learning strategies for securing coveted industrial placements. This module is your gateway to a dynamic future in physics. 

You’ll study topics such as: 

• The process of research, from identifying a problem through to delivering its solution. 

• Essential professional skills for a successful career in physics. 

• Developing proficiency in project management, a crucial skill in the world of physics and beyond. 

• Engaging in open-ended projects in collaboration with industrial partners, gaining valuable practical experience. 

• How to go about acquiring an industrial placement including the skills need to find them and then successfully apply. 

This module explores the captivating realm of astronomy and cosmology. You will embark on a journey through the vast universe, delving into celestial bodies, their formation, and evolution. You’ll also study the field of cosmology, investigating the Big Bang theory, dark matter, and dark energy, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the night sky and the universe's secrets. 

You’ll study topics such as: 

• The physics of a stars 

• The interstellar medium and the birth and death of stars 

• The design and operation of telescopes  

• Galaxies, neutron stars, pulsars, and black holes 

• Tools for astronomy 

The realm of classical mechanics is foundational to our understanding of how the world works. In this module you will use the same skills that Newton grappled with to understand how we experience motion in our world. Which leads us to examine how Einstein changed this understanding with general relativity, and its immensely powerful impact on the description of the universe. We then use all these tools to describe the fundamental properties of how our galactic home functions including the enigmatic mysteries of dark energy and dark matter. 

You’ll study topics such as: 

• Classical mechanics, uncovering the laws of motion, forces, and energy

• Gravitation, understanding its impact on celestial bodies and planetary motion

• Special and general relativity, where time, space, and gravity intertwine in extraordinary ways

• How to represent astrophysical objects and processes mathematically 

• Dark energy and dark matter 

This module takes us into the heart of quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. We’ll follow a journey, blending advanced mathematics, programming skills, and quantum phenomena. Dive deep into the quantum realm, where uncertainty reigns, wavefunctions describe molecules, and Schrödinger's equation rules absolute. Explore how quantum mechanics weaves its magic on the macroscopic world and impacts our everyday experience through the phenomena of electromagnetism. This module propels you into a quantum-powered world and gives you the skills to explore it further. 

You’ll study topics such as: 

• Key concepts like the Uncertainty Principle, wavefunctions, and Schrödinger's equation

• Quantum mechanics' impact on macroscopic features, from magnetism to semiconductors

• Further mathematical proficiency, laying the foundation for a deeper understanding of physics

• Electromagnetism and how to use Maxwell’s laws to solve problems

Thermodynamics can tell us about the operation of rockets, power plants, plants and even cell behaviour, but it is also much more fundamental - Thermodynamics tells us how the universe will end. Thermodynamics underpins much of what we study today, and an understanding of its processes allows insight into the elemental working of the universe. This is entwinned with the field of statistical physics; we can calculate with great accuracy the behaviour of a single particle, however real systems are normally composed of huge numbers of particles and exactly calculating the behaviour of the system as a whole in this way is impossible. We thus rely on statistical methods – powerful tools to work out group behaviour based on probabilities. Statistical mechanics gives us the tools to examine exotic states of matter and predict new ones. You will find you use the tools from this module across all other areas of physics. 

You’ll study topics such as: 

• The foundational principles of thermodynamics: the Zeroth, First, and Second Laws

• How Thermodynamics tells us about the future

• The quantum realm with statistical mechanics, including the Kinetic Theory of Gases and the statistical basis of entropy

• Uncovering the fascinating Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein, and Fermi-Dirac distributions

• Decoding the complexities of statistical physics, providing insights into the behaviour of matter and energy

This module takes you beyond the classroom, equipping you with the skills and understandings to conquer the academic and professional worlds. You’ll be preparing you for life after your degree whether you want to become a Nobel Prize winner, teach others about the wonders of physics, or anything else. This module continues to support you landing coveted industrial placements, but also shows how theory and practice are interlinked through industry-led projects. you'll get to work with seasoned physicists as you use your own knowledge and skills to design experiments to solve real, industrial problems.  

Alongside this we dive into enhanced lab work where you will have to develop innovative practical skills to answer unanswered questions and create your own research projects.  

You’ll study topics such as: 

• Focusing on preparing for professional life post-degree, with a spotlight on securing industrial placements

• Developing the ability to apply academic physics knowledge effectively in professional settings

• Engaging in industry-led projects, gaining firsthand experience alongside experts and tailoring your skills

• Designing experimental procedure and equipment and using them for problem solving

Building upon the foundation of 'Discovering Advanced Topics in Physics and its Applications,' this module allows you to continue to chart your own journey through the discipline of physics. Choose your passion, whether it's as an experimentalist, theoretician, or physics practitioner. Dive into cutting-edge topics, collaborating with active researchers, and tailor your studies to your chosen path. Master complex methods for solving differential equations, unravel the mysteries of tensors and relativity, and trace the footsteps of physics legends through history. Extend your quantum frontiers, harness advanced instrumentation techniques, and explore the realms of physical and biological modelling and much more. 

This module allows you to: 

• Further your physics journey with advanced specialisation

• Choose your path as an experimentalist, theoretician, or practitioner

• Immerse yourself in cutting-edge topics alongside active researchers

• Tailor your studies to your passion, from differential equations to quantum mechanics

Ignite your passion for physics and explore its depths in this specialised module. Dive into selected areas of your choice, working alongside cutting-edge researchers and utilising state-of-the-art equipment. Your final year becomes a space to you craft your unique curriculum. Delve into computational modelling, experimental physics, uncover the rich history of physics, and much more. This module is your gateway to shaping a future in physics that aligns perfectly with your interests and aspirations. 

This module allows you to: 

• Deepen your physics knowledge and specialise in your chosen area

• Collaborate with cutting-edge researchers and utilise state-of-the-art research tools

• Tailor your final year curriculum to match your interests and needs

• Explore diverse topics across the discipline of physics

• Craft a future in physics that aligns with your passions

Your individual final year project is the apex of your academic journey, offering a platform to apply the wealth of knowledge and skills gathered throughout your degree to real-world linked problems. This module requires your creativity, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to navigate new material independently in whichever field you choose to specialise in. 

This module allows you to: 

• Undertake in-depth research in a topic of your choosing

• The opportunity to work alongside cutting-edge researchers 

• Create a body of work that can support you into further study, or work in a field that interests you

Develop solid foundations for undertaking a self-managed academic research project. On this module you will develop the skills and understanding you will need to complete your dissertation project to the highest level. Through lectures, guided reading and one-to-one discussions with your project supervisor you will design a design a path through to successful completion of an extensive research project including developing the project management skills you will need to achieve this. 

You’ll study topics such as 

• The life cycle of a project 

• Reviewing academic literature 

• Quality management 

• Project management techniques and tools 

• Research ethics 

• Intellectual property rights 

This module aims to give experience in the practice of engineering and related disciplines at a professional level. It involves planning, managing, executing and reporting a programme of work which will normally involve a mixture of experimental, theoretical and computational work together with a review of relevant previous work in the field.  

You’ll study topics such as: 

• Approaches to managing complex technical projects 

• Effective teamwork and management 

• Planning and coordinating a team-based activities 

• Roles in a team 

• Critical reflection 

This Project and Dissertation module represents the capstone in your learning journey. It is your chance to push the boundaries of knowledge, showcasing originality through major research. Dive into an intellectually rich master's-level research project, all guided by your chosen topic and your dedicated Sheffield Hallam dissertation supervisor. 

This module allows you to: 

• Develop your own original ideas on a topic of your choosing. 

• Work alongside active researchers and receive one-to-one guidance. 

• Contribute to the field of your choosing and advance it in a meaningful way. 

• Gain insight into the day-to-day activities of a research scientist. 

Engage with cutting-edge research in this wide-ranging module and fuel your independent exploration. Explore an advanced area of research of your choosing and work alongside an active researcher in that field. Through a range of taught sessions, directed reading and investigations you will forge an understanding of a currently active area of research, culminating in presenting your findings in the style of an academic paper suitable for publication. 

In this module provides you with: 

• The opportunity to further your understanding in a specialist topic 

• The chance to work as part of a research team on cutting-edge research 

• The opportunity to have your work published 

• The experience of being a professional researcher  

In this module you will cultivate the essential skills for preparing the ground for dissertation work. You will develop and plan an original piece of research, supported though taught sessions that impart theories and concepts as well as one-to-one instruction from a dedicated supervisor who is an active researcher in the field. This module is your foundation to developing the skills needed for high-quality research and scientific excellence. 

This module allows you to: 

• Dive into the world of research from the ground up. 

• Master the art of research planning to ensure you are producing high-quality work. 

• Learn the art of literature search and evaluation and develop a critical faculty to examine the work of others. 

• Improve your academic writing abilities, with the potential of developing publishable research.