WHAT IS PHYSICS?
Formerly called natural philosophy, physics is concerned with those aspects of nature which can be understood in a fundamental way in terms of elementary principles and laws. Physics is in some senses the oldest and most basic pure science since matter and energy are the basic constituents of the natural world.
In the course of time, various specialized sciences broke away from physics to form autonomous fields of investigation. In this process, physics retained its original aim of understanding the structure of the natural world and explaining natural phenomena.
The most basic parts of physics are mechanics and field theory. Mechanics is concerned with the motion of particles or bodies under the action of given forces. The physics of fields are concerned with the origin, nature and properties of gravitational, electromagnetic, nuclear, and other force- fields. Taken together, mechanics and field theory constitute the most fundamental approach to understanding natural phenomena which science offers. The ultimate aim is to understand all
natural phenomena in these terms. based on certain general classes of natural phenomena on which the methods of physics had been found particularly applicable.
The divisions or branches of modern physics are made in accordance with particular types of structures in nature with which each unit is concerned. Physics aims to construct a unified theoretical scheme in mathematical terms whose structure and behaviour duplicate that of the whole natural world in the most comprehensive manner possible. Whereas other sciences are content to describe and relate phenomena in terms of restricted concepts peculiar to their own disciplines, physics always seeks to understand the same phenomena as a particular manifestation of the underlying uniform structure of nature as a whole. In line with this objective, physics is characterized by accurate instrumentation, the precision of measurement, and the expression of its results in mathematical terms. The major areas of physics are Acoustics, Atomic physics, Classical mechanics, Electricity, Electromagnetism, Elementary particle, Fluid mechanics, Heat, Low-temperature physics, Molecular physics, Nuclear physics, Optics, Solid-state physics, Statistical mechanics, Theoretical physics
WHY STUDY PHYSICS?
A Physics major is great preparation for almost any career because they teach students how to analyse complex problems and inculcate a strong quantitative background that can be applied in any technical field. The goal of physics is to understand how things work from the first principles. We offer physics courses that are matched to a range of goals that students may have in studying physics — taking elective courses to broaden one’s scientific literacy, satisfying requirements for a major in the sciences, or working towards a degree in physics. Courses in physics reveal the mathematical beauty of the universe at scales ranging from subatomic to cosmological. Studying physics strengthens quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills that are valuable in areas beyond physics. Students who study physics are prepared to work on forefront ideas in science and technology, in academia, the government, or the private sector.
Careers might focus on basic research in astrophysics, cosmology, particle physics, atomic physics, photonics or condensed matter physics, or in more applied research in areas such as renewable energy, quantum information science, Data science, materials development, biophysics, or medical physics etc. Careers could also include teaching, medicine, law (especially intellectual property or patent law), science writing, history of science, philosophy of science, science policy, energy policy, government, or management in technical fields
COMMON SKILLS GAINED FROM A DEGREE IN PHYSICS INCLUDE:
Studying for a physics degree will provide you with benefits which last a lifetime and knowledge and skills which are valued by employers generally. Some of these benefits are harder to quantify than others, such as the pleasure that can come from being able to read about and understand the latest discoveries in science, while others are more specific. Where these skills are useful in many contexts, they are called transferable skills. They include a practical approach to problem-solving, the ability to reason clearly and to communicate well.
The transferable skills you will develop while studying BSc Physics at MMC:
Analytical Studying physics will enhance your ability to think clearly, pay attention to detail and construct logical and reasoned arguments. Problem Solving
The mathematics and physics modules you take will ask you to solve problems—lots of them! This includes not only academic problems but also practical problems. You will learn how to formulate problems precisely, how to identify the key questions and how to use simple problems and limiting cases to guide your approach to more complicated problems.
Self-study
One of the most important skills a degree develops is the ability to teach yourself. During your studies, you will gain experience in searching for and digesting information from a variety of sources including lectures, the library and other people.
Communication
Physics deal with complicated and surprising concepts and good communication is essential. Throughout the course, you will be interacting with lecturers, colleagues and friends from outside science both in writing and orally. You will also develop the essential communication skills of listening and reading.
Organisational
Studying at MMC develops self-discipline. You will have to organise your timetable to meet deadlines for a variety of activities including examinations and the submission of assessed coursework. You will also have to plan your programme of studies in advance.
IT Skills
IT has come to mean anything to do with computers. You will need to use computers for at least some of word-processing and the graphical display of information, accessing the internet, controlling experiments and modelling.
You will also have the opportunity, through activities not directly related to your studies, to develop your personal skills. There are opportunities to participate in, organise and publicise sports, music, drama, politics, student support groups and many other activities.
