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Department of Physics and Astronomy

Cosmology

(MSc) Cosmology

Entry for 2024

FHEQ level

This course is set at Level 7 (Masters) in the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

Course Aims

- To produce students with a solid knowledge of cosmology, including
underlying mathematical and observational methods, with applications
in the standard Big Bang cosmology, thus preparing students for
doctoral studies in this or a related area.
- To introduce students to research problems in modern cosmology through
either a research project or by a critical review of an area of
contemporary research interest.
- To introduce students to a wide range of topics in modern cosmology
and to provide them with a range of transferable skills, such as
communication and computer skills.

Course learning outcomes

A solid understanding of the basics of cosmology and the associated mathematical and observational methods. In particular, the student will be familiar with the standard Big Bang cosmology.

A basic knowledge of the various research directions in modern cosmology as well a thorough understanding of a particular research subject.

A range of research skills and an understanding of how to conduct scientific research.

Independently seek and digest material on a specific topic.

Critically assess such material.

Demonstrate basic research skills and the ability to perform independent research in a given area.

Problem-solving and mathematical skills

Investigative skills

Presentation and communication skills

Computer skills, Manage resources and time

Learn independently with open-mindedness and in the spirit of critical enquiry

Full-time course composition

YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
1Autumn SemesterCoreCosmology (900F3)157
  CoreGeneral Relativity (881F3)157
  OptionData Analysis Techniques (890F3)157
  Galactic Astrophysics (889F3)157
  Programming through Python (823G5)157
  Quantum Field Theory (877F3)157
 Spring SemesterCoreAdvanced Cosmology (879F3)157
  OptionAdvanced Quantum Field Theory (882F3)157
  Astrophysical Processes (902F3)157
  Frontiers in Particle Physics (894F3)157
  Monte Carlo Simulations (L7) (865G1)157
  Stellar and Planetary Physics (F3244)156

Part-time course composition

YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
1Autumn SemesterCoreCosmology (900F3)157
  OptionData Analysis Techniques (890F3)157
  Galactic Astrophysics (889F3)157
  Programming through Python (823G5)157
  Quantum Field Theory (877F3)157
 Spring SemesterCoreAdvanced Cosmology (879F3)157
  OptionAdvanced Quantum Field Theory (882F3)157
  Astrophysical Processes (902F3)157
  Frontiers in Particle Physics (894F3)157
  Monte Carlo Simulations (L7) (865G1)157
  Stellar and Planetary Physics (F3244)156
YearTermStatusModuleCreditsFHEQ level
2Autumn SemesterCoreGeneral Relativity (881F3)157
  OptionData Analysis Techniques (890F3)157
  Galactic Astrophysics (889F3)157
  Programming through Python (823G5)157
 Spring SemesterOptionAdvanced Quantum Field Theory (882F3)157
  Astrophysical Processes (902F3)157
  Frontiers in Particle Physics (894F3)157
  Monte Carlo Simulations (L7) (865G1)157
  Stellar and Planetary Physics (F3244)156
 Spring & Summer TeachingCoreMSc Project P&A (PGT) (920F3)607

Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.

The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.