Theoretical atomic, nuclear and particle physics

Introduction

Objectives and content

Contemporary theoretical physics aims to understand nature at its largest and smallest scales. This master's programme provides an introduction to fundamental theoretical physics by bridging the gap between undergraduate courses and the research frontier. As a student you will have the opportunity to study the atomic systems interacting with light, delve into the complex behaviour of quarks and gluons in the extreme conditions created in nuclear collisions or investigate the structure of the Standard Model of particle physics, and beyond.

The courses of the master's programme include advanced methods in quantum mechanics and quantum field theory, as well as general relativity. In addition, you will gain experience with modern numerical methods in order to being able to solve cutting-edge problems. As a master student, you will become part of a vibrant research community engaged in various international projects.

What you Learn

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the programme the candidate should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The candidate

• has an understanding of the most fundamental laws and principles of theoretical physics, along with their interpretations
• is able to account for the elementary constituents of matter
• is acquainted with specialized numerical and analytical tools to solve the problems at hand
• has specialized knowledge of laser-matter interactions, nuclear processes under extreme conditions and particle physics of the Standard Model and ideas for its extension by yet undiscovered particles (the extent will depend on the specialization of the master's thesis)

Skills

The candidate is able to

• apply theoretical knowledge of physical principles and mathematical techniques to problems in the field
• analyse problems in atomic, nuclear and particle physics and discuss ways to explore these with the aid of theory and modelling
• carry out an independent, limited research project under supervision, but with a large degree of independence and own initiative, and in coherence with good ethical conduct
• orient oneself in the scientific community and collect, analyse and utilize necessary knowledge and tools needed to carry out a research project
• analyse and critically evaluate scientific sources of information and apply these to structure and formulate reasoning and new ideas
• analyse, interpret and discuss own results in a scientifically sound and critical way, and in light of data and theories within his/her own field

General competence

The candidate is able to

• analyse scientific problems in general and participate in discussions about different ways to address and solve problems
• model physical systems in terms of abstract quantities
• give good written and oral presentations of scientific topics and results
• communicate scientific problems, analyses and conclusions within theoretical physics, both to specialists and the general public
• reflect over central scientific problems in his/her own work and other people¿s work
• demonstrate understanding and respect for scientific values like openness, precision and reliability

Study Period Abroad

Study period abroad

You can plan study periods abroad in consultation with your supervisor as a part of the master agreement.

How to Apply

Semester

Autumn

Admission Requirements

In order to apply for the Master Programme in Physics, Space Physics, you need a bachelor degree in Physics or related fields.

Bachelor degrees from UiB that qualify:

• Bachelor degree in Physics

Bachelor degrees that qualify

• Bachelor degree in Physics
• Other bachelor degrees can qualify if you can document courses in Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equation, Function of Several Variables, Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Thermodynamics, Basic Measurement Science and Experimental Physics, Modern Physics, Project in Physics

You also need to document:

• Average grade of minimum C (equivalent to Norwegian grade C)
• Proficiency in English