Physics deals with fundamental questions about the universe and with many of the important technological and environmental issues of our time. At undergraduate level, it involves studying some beautiful theories about the properties of space and matter and developing practical and valuable skills. Members of the Physics Department have an excellent reputation for their research. There are strong groups studying astrophysics, condensed matter, elementary particles, plasmas and theoretical physics. These research activities attract considerable funding to the Department and help to ensure that the undergraduate modules reflect contemporary ideas in modern physics.
Example modules
Physics Foundations
This module looks at some key concepts which are used throughout physics: dimensional analysis, simple harmonic motion (SHM) and waves. It is surprising how often the qualitative features of systems can be (at least partially) understood by thinking about which quantities in the problem are allowed to depend on each other on dimensional grounds. Loosely speaking this is the requirement that "apples can only equal apples". Examples we will look at include the size of an atom, the length scale on which a theory of gravity has to take account of quantum theory and the speed of a wave in a shallow channel.
Electricity and Magnetism
This module is largely concerned with the great developments in electricity and magnetism which took place during the nineteenth century. The origins
and properties of electric and magnetic fields in free space and in materials are tested in some detail and all the basic levels up to, but not including, Maxwell's equations are considered. In addition the module deals with both d.c. and a.c. circuit theory including the use of complex vector impedance.
The Physics degree at Warwick consists of a core taken by all students, which covers the fundamental laws and concepts of physics. Students then choose further modules from lists of options, including astronomy and astrophysics, nuclear physics, the physics of condensed matter, theoretical physics and elementary particle physics. The flexibility offered by the Warwick degree makes it relatively easy for visiting students to fit into the system.
The Physics department helps each visiting student to optimise their choice of modules. Each student is assigned a faculty member who acts as
their tutor and is responsible for monitoring progress throughout the year.
Availability for Exchange students for Autumn and Autumn & Spring terms depends upon individual study modules.
