Physics at Lancaster University

Overview

Projects and dissertations are undertaken in the 3rd and 4th years. They provide the opportunity for independent, in-depth study of a particular topic, under the guidance of academic staff. Projects and dissertations require self-motivation and the ability to work under pressure.

Industrial group projects (PHYS355) are available to 3rd year BSc and MPhys students. They involve solving a 'real' problem posed by a company or other external organisation as part of a team.

3rd year projects are available to students on the BSc Physics (as PHYS356) and BSc Theoretical Physics (as PHYS376) degree schemes. They involve the individual 'practical' investigation of a topic.

Dissertations are available to 3rd year students on the MPhys Physics (as PHYS357) and MPhys Theoretical Physics (as PHYS377) degree schemes. They involve individual in-depth investigation of a topic via the study of academic material (books, scientific papers etc.).

All 3rd year project and dissertation modules are worth 30 credits and are assessed by means of an independent learning mark (given by the supervisor) a written report, an oral examination and a talk at the mini-conference.

MPhys projects are compulsory for all 4th year MPhys students. They commence with a literature search over the summer holidays at the end of the 3rd year (PHYS452), while the actual project runs through most of the 4th year (PHYS451). PHYS451/2 are assessed by means of an independent learning mark (given by the supervisor) a written report and an oral examination.

Further details are available in the other tabs.

Guidlines and Useful Documents

Available Projects: 2012-2013

Before deciding which project to do you must contact the relevant supervisor (in person, or by email if you are in North America). You will be able to find out more about the project and discuss whether it is the right one for you.

You are also welcome to approach members of staff to suggest or discuss possible projects which do not appear on the list.

• Download all Projects in one file