Physics & Astronomy are two sciences with a big importance in the evolution of the world. The combination of the two creates a specialization through which students practice their logical, practical skills and explore the space of possibilities around them.
While physics is based on the analysis of energy, force, movement, and other elements that study the properties and structure of matter; astronomy, the subordinated of physics, aims at studying galaxies or constellations. More specifically, it refers to the study of the universe as a whole.
As a result of the specialisation presented, students often learn to develop scientific theories and models to explain the world’s properties, initiate scientific experiments and research, solve complex mathematical equations to analyze astronomical and physical data or develop computer softwares to analyze and model data.
As a student of Physics & Astronomy, the skills developed include problem-solving, data analysis using modern technologies and software, creativity, critical thinking, logical thinking, the ability to present innovative ideas writing or speaking, teamwork.
At the same time, most students completing this specialisation continue their studies with graduate work in physics. Also, they can opt for another specialisation, such as computer science, medicine, radiation, law, meteorology, oceanography, teaching physics.
It is noticed that Physics & Astronomy does not limit students to work only in the field of physics. Moreover, it offers a large field of opportunities in jobs related to this science. The employment rate is very high among the graduates of Physics & Astronomy. They remain either in universities, research academies or in various scientific institutes for research and service development.
Most students who complete a degree in Physics & Astronomy have a Bachelor’s degree in Physics. They are highly appreciated on the labour market, as they have a much wider background in natural sciences and mathematics. Most courses include Classical and Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Optics and Linear Algebra or Statistics. It should be mentioned that the Bachelor studies last for 3 years. A Master’s programme is enough for those looking for research jobs for manufacturing or healthcare industries. These studies have a duration of 2 years.
It is important to know that a doctorate in Physics & Astronomy allows students to work in research, in academies or in various positions of industry researcher. At the same time, to be admitted to a Doctorate in Physics & Astronomy, students need to have math and computer science courses, as physicists and astronomers develop software for modelling and analyzing data. Often, these studies may take between 5 and 6 years. For those who do not want to continue their studies with a PhD, there are computer science courses, very useful for acquiring new knowledge.
During their undergraduate studies, students have the opportunity to attend internship programmes to work with skilled people in this profession and to better understand how they can apply the theoretical knowledge they learnt. There are various national or international astronomical societies, as well as physical societies that provide students with internship programmes.
When I applied to be a student of the prestigious imperial college, I did that with little hope and gaining the admission amazed me and left me super excited. One of the things imperial college is unique at is the provision of high quality facilities like labarotories, state of the art class rooms and conducive digital learning. It is indeed a wonderful environment for learning and one in which every student can achieve his potential
View moreThe course is challenging and you get a lot of support from the department if you need it. Had a great time in 1st-year halls as well! There are lots of different societies you can join too so I’d definitely recommend giving some of them a go.
View moreImperial’s real strength lies in its rigorous workload to ensure you are delving into the extreme depths of the course you choose to study. The professors and tutorial system makes it easy for the students to approach them with questions and problems, that are not only restricted to academics. With over 250 clubs and societies, if you have a specific interest or hobby, you will definitely find a club or society for it.
View moreOverall, physics at Imperial is fun but obviously challenging. Accommodation is guaranteed in first year and is generally pretty good, only downside being that rent can be expensive depending on which student hall you choose. If you choose to stay close to campus then rent is very high but the advantage is the proximity. If you want to pay cheaper rent then you have to stay further away from campus but those halls are newer with nicer facilities. First year is relatively easier than the rest to help you get settled into university life. The modules can be boring but the project in third term is fun, however you have to juggle it with ongoing lecture courses and exams. First year labs are fairly straightforward and a good way to get those “easier” marks. The modules in second get more interesting however the workload increases a lot more than first year. Second year labs are poorly planned out with inconsistencies with regards to feedback. I am yet to experience third year but have heard it gets better. Outside of academics Imperial has over 300 clubs and societies so there are plenty of opportunities to explore other activities. These are the great way to meet new people. First year is the best year to take part in other activities. After that, if you want to maintain good grades then you will have to reduce the time you spend on activities, unless you choose to lose sleep, which I don’t recommend.
View moreThe professors are usually prompt in responding to students. Students are assigned personal tutors, which is excellent as they can be the first point of contact when it comes to any questions regarding the course, or anything personal.
View moreGood prospects after graduation, decent lecturers and labs, good social life in London, expensive especially if you are an international student. Heavy workload at times, exams can be quite difficult.
View moreImperial provides many opportunities for undergraduates to do research with world-class experts. In general, relatively big chunk of degree is dedicated to labs and projects. However, more theoretical students can also find suitable options.
View moreThe pace is fast so progression is fast. Professors seem welcoming with respect to questions and queries. Student life is alright; there’s a union bar etc but all in all, it seems less intrepid than other unis.
View moreRubbish buildings look from the outside
Sometimes can be cold on the inside
Some lecturers are rubbish
Library is good
Too much talking in lectures
Not enough alcohol-free events
Too many problem sheets