This programme covers topics like string theory, quantum field theory, supersymmetry, general relativity, and conformal and integrable field theory. Students gain a coherent, comprehensive introduction to the building blocks of modern theoretical physics. Students study at least eight taught modules and develop individual projects in areas of current research. The programme ideally prepares students for active research.
KEY BENEFITS
- This intensive programme covers basic topics in theoretical and mathematical physics such as general relativity and quantum field theory, and leads to advanced topics such as string theory, supersymmetry and integrable quantum field theory.
- Intimate class environment with small class sizes (typically fewer than 30 students per module) allows good student-lecturer interactions.
- A full 12-month course with a three-month supervised summer project to give a real introduction to research.
KEY FACTS
Student destinations
Many of our very successful graduates go on to start PhD studies in theoretical physics at various universities in the United Kingdom and abroad, including with our group here at King's, for which the MSc is particularly well tailored. Our graduates also take up full-time employment in various industries that require good mathematical/computer knowledge or that look for intelligent and creative people. Recent employers of our graduates include the Algerian Space Agency, FRM Capital Advisors and Lloyds Banking Group.
Programme leader/s
Dr Benjamin Doyon
Awarding Institution
King's College London
Credit value (UK/ECTS equivalent)
UK 180/ECTS 90
Duration
One year FT, two years PT, September to September.
Location
Strand Campus.
Year of entry 2013
Offered by
School of Natural and Mathematical Sciences
Department of Mathematics
Closing date
31 August or until places are filled.
Intake
Approximately 15-20 FT, 5-10 PT.
Fees
PT Home: £3250 (2013)
PT Overseas: £N/A
FT Home: £6500 (2013)
FT Overseas: £16000 (2013)
CONTACTS
Contact information
Postgraduate Officer, Centre for Arts & Sciences Admissions (CASA)
tel: +44 (0) 20 7848 7210/ 2574
fax: +44 (0) 20 7848 7200
Email
Website
PURPOSE
The purpose of this programme is to provide a coherent and comprehensive introduction to the main building blocks of modern theoretical physics, preparing students for active research at the forefront of this discipline.
DESCRIPTION
The master's is organised on a module system together with an individual project. You will take eight taught modules of which at least five will be from the list: Foundations of Mathematical Physics; Quantum Mechanics II; Quantum Field Theory; Lie Groups & Lie Algebras; Manifolds; Space-time Geometry & General Relativity; Advanced General Relativity; Supersymmetry; String Theory & Branes; Low-Dimensional Quantum Field Theory; Advanced Quantum Field Theory; Mathematical Methods for Theoretical Physics; Standard Model Physics and Beyond.
The remaining modules can be drawn from the wide range of theoretical
physics or pure mathematics MSc modules available in London, the Financial Mathematics MSc in King's and at most two modules from the undergraduate programme at King's. The project is undertaken over the summer in an area of current research.
STRUCTURE OVERVIEW
Core programme content
Indicative non-core content
Eight taught modules of which at least five will be from the list below:
- Advanced General Relativity
- Advanced Quantum Field Theory
- Foundations of Mathematical Physics
- Lie Groups & Lie Algebras
- Low-Dimensional Quantum Field Theory
- Manifolds
- Mathematical Methods for Theoretical Physics
- Quantum Field Theory
- Quantum Mechanics II
- Spacetime Geometry & General Relativity
- Standard Model Physics & Beyond
- String Theory & Branes
- Supersymmetry.
The remaining modules can be drawn from the wide range of theoretical physics or pure mathematics MSc modules available in London, the Financial Mathematics MSc in King's and at most two modules from the undergraduate programme at King's. The project is undertaken over the summer in an area of current research.
FORMAT AND ASSESSMENT
At least eight taught modules assessed by written examinations and one individual project.
ACADEMIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
General entry advice
2:1 or first class UK honours degree or equivalent, with mathematics or physics as a main field of study. 2:2 in exceptional circumstances.
APPLYING TO KING'S
To apply for graduate study at King's you will need to complete our graduate online application form. Applying online makes applying easier and quicker for you, and means we can receive your application faster and more securely.
King's does not normally accept paper copies of the graduate application form as applications must be made online. However, if you are unable to access the online graduate application form, please contact the relevant admissions/School Office at King's for advice.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Your application will be assessed by an admissions tutor and we aim to reply within six to eight weeks of the date of submission. We do not interview all applicants, assessment being by online application, questionnaire and email (if necessary), but we do interview a small number of applicants where this is appropriate. You are always welcome to request an interview to discuss the programme in general or your application in particular. All applicants must indicate which fields of mathematics they are familiar with by answering a questionnaire, which we will send you once we receive your application.
PERSONAL STATEMENT & SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Please include transcripts of subjects taken in the relevant degrees and copies of all certificates and relevant qualifications mentioned in your application.
FUNDING
The E T Davies scholarship may be awarded to one (or possibly shared by two) outstanding applicants in the Department. The value of the scholarship is not fixed, but will vary between £500 and £2,000.
The College also has a wide range of scholarships and bursaries available to help fund study at King's - please see the Graduate School funding database for eligibility, application details and deadlines.
Student profiles
Theoretical Physics MScHaving studied Mathematics and Physics at undergraduate level I was interested in continuing my studies in the direction of string and M-theory. The Theoretical Physics programme at King's appealed to me because of the international reputation of the lecturers and the choice of modules on offer. Students have the opportunity to select pure mathematics topics which best suit their interests while preparing for the string theory, supersymmetry, gauge theory and general relativity courses in the second term. The summer after examinations is spent writing a dissertation which provides an introduction to topics which are being actively researched.
Studying this programme at King's has allowed me to successfully bridge the gap between undergraduate education and research in theoretical physics, and I am now pursuing a PhD in the Theoretical Physics group at King's.
Living and studying in the centre of London has given me the opportunity to enjoy the fine art, music, theatre and social life which defines the city; and from my experience playing in the King's College London Symphony Orchestra I recommend attending one of their concerts.
Staff profiles
Theoretical Physics MScI joined the Theoretical Physics group at King's in 2010 and my research interest is in quantum field theory, in particular the integrable or conformal kind. I'm quite interested in looking at QFT as a powerful theory for emergent fluctuations (collective behaviours) in many-body systems. This point of view connects it to condensed matter and statistical systems, but also provides a fundamental understanding of renormalisation group and an alternative view on the fundamental particles of physics.
King's Theoretical Physics group is at the forefront of research in supersymmetry, string and M- theory, conformal field theory and related areas. It currently has nine permanent members together with postdoctoral researchers and graduate students. The group conducts research in fundamental issues of modern theoretical physics. Its achievements include significant discoveries in supersymmetry and string theory, amongst which are the non-renormalisation theorems for supersymmetric theories and the construction of supergravity theories in 10 dimensions. Our current research interests include supersymmetry, superstrings and branes, and exactly solvable quantum field theories.
King's graduates are highly sought after both nationally and internationally in research institutions and higher education as well as in a wide range of professions.