Course features

The syllabus covers the following:

• Equations of motion and Lagrangians for fields of spin 0, 1/2 and 1
• Solutions to the Dirac equation
• Transformation properties of spin 0, 1/2 and 1 fields under Lorentz transformations
• Methods for computing conserved (Noether) currents associated with symmetries in classical relativistic field theories
• Concept of current algebra
• Concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking in the context of global symmetries
• Goldstone's theorem and its application to determine the number of Goldstone (i.e. massless) bosons
• Lagrangians for Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) and Scalar Electrodynamics
• Concepts of 'gauging a theory' and the 'gauge covariant derivative'
• Spontaneous symmetry breaking of an Abelian gauge symmetry, including knowledge of the fate of the Goldstone bosons, the generation of a gauge-boson mass, and connections to the phenomenon of superconductivity within the context of Scalar Electrodynamics
• Lagrangians for non-Abelian gauge theories
• Spontaneous symmetry breaking of non-Abelian gauge theories
• The electroweak sector of the Standard Model and its spontaneous breaking to electromagnetism and the weak nuclear force
• Generation of mass terms for leptons and quarks through the Higgs mechanism
• Concepts of total width, partial width, branching ratio and lifetime
• Calculation of phase space integrals in decay problems
• Calculation of tree-level scattering amplitudes in decay problems.

What does this course cover?

The module aims to provide you with the following:

• The ability to proficiently utilise a diverse array of learning resources, enabling you to undertake research tasks with some guidance
• The ability to confidently navigate complex and specialised contexts, potentially at the cutting edge of knowledge
• Encourage you to develop into a self-critical learner, consistently evaluating your progress and seeking opportunities for continuous improvement
• Cultivate your communication skills, effectively conveying topics related to Particle Physics to both specialists and non-specialists alike
• Equip you with a deep understanding of the subject matter
• By mastering the acquired techniques, you will critically analyse and comprehend a variety of theories relevant to Particle Physics.

Entry requirements

​​T​he standard entry requirements comprise:

• A 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent in Physics: Particle Physics
• A CV and personal statement outlining your reasons for study
• English language band D (for example, IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each skill).

Assessment

You will be assessed via coursework and examination, as follows:

• Coursework = 20%
• Examination = 80%.

Further information

This is an on-campus module. Students are expected to attend in-person lectures, problem discussions and group work discussion totaling 4 hours per week.

The assessment period for this module is between Tuesday 5 May – Friday 5 June 2026. Further details on exact assessment dates will be confirmed following enrolment.