This review is intended not only for those deciding between which university they may choose to do a physics degree, but also, for those who are trying to decide if physics is the degree for them.
The physics department at UCL is a somewhat medium sized department, with approximately 140-170 new undergraduates joining each year. Located in the very heart of the main university campus, with libraries, cafeteria, student union, theatre, several museums, and transport links all within 5 minutes walk away, and only a 15 minute bus ride to Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Street, so everything really is close at hand.
The department itself seems to lack charm, and could do with some modernisation to make it more welcoming, although, this is now slowly taking place. But don't let this put you off, because under the paintwork, and behind the wooden doors are many friendly tutors and PhD students who form a friendly and helpful community. Everyone seems to know everyone else here, and there is a genuine interest to make sure students and collegues feel 'included' and settled.
There are a variety of courses on offer by the department, including physics, physics and astronomy, physics and space science, physics with medical physics, as well as physics with mathematics, and
theoretical physics. Many of these offer the option of doing the 3-year BSc, or the 4-year MSci. The 4-year course is more adapted to those who aim to go on and do research after their degree due to the extended final year project, which allows for hands-on research. The 3-year course can of course still lead to research since it can directly lead onto a 1-year masters. My advice for when applying, is to apply for the 4-year course as you are guaranteed funding for the duration, and you can switch to the 3-year course at the end of the 2nd year without any penalty. Transfering from a 3-year to 4-year course can occasionally be problematic though.
The entry requirements will vary depending on which of the above degree-streams you take. Those of a more theoretical nature would perhaps require an A-grade in A-level mathematics, but other degree-streams will lower this. The typical range of requirement grades are BBB - AAB, and 2 of these should be in mathematics and physics. However, UCL seeks a more relaxed approach to accepting students, and does not make a decision based on just these grades. The informal interview is an ideal place to demonstrate your enthusiasm and ideas which are not normally tested under examination conditions, so even if you are at the lower end of the grade requirements, or even just fall short, you have every chance of gaining a place if you can show them you have a real passion for the subject.
All years now have a modular system in place, whereby in a typical year, you will take 6 lecture courses (3 per term) and usually some form of practical work (1 per term). The modular system does have it's advantages in that revision is much easier at the end of the year - but the disadvantage is you end up with sets of exams too, and also that there is a tendancy to forget things when a module is complete.
Year 1 consists of the 'building-block' courses any physics degree needs to have in order to progress to more advanced material in later years. Typical courses will include classical mechanics, thermal physics, mathematics, waves and modern physics, and physics of the universe.
Years 2 and 3 build on this knowledge in courses such as quantum mechanics, statistical physics, electromagnetism, and environmental physics. There are several optional modules which often prove to be extremely interesting, and this allows you to start tailoring your degree to your own interests.
Should you wish to progress to year 4, then you have complete control over your final year. All modules are optional, and the courses becomes intercollegiate. This may mean you have to travel to another university in London for some courses, although the majority are still in UCL. This can be another great opportunity to meet more like-minded people. The other emphasis on the final year is the project, where you will be actively taking part in real-life research in a similar manner to a PhD student. This culminates in a final report and presentation at the end of the year which is not only rewarding, but looks great on a CV.
The majority of courses are stimulating, although some core courses may seem somewhat dry and dull, but they are necesary for a complete understanding of the more advanced, interesting stuff later so bear with it! Lectures are given in a variety of formats, including powerpoint, board-and-chalk, handouts, and problem sheets, and last 50 minutes for 1st and 2nd years, although lectures are 'clumped' for 3rd and 4th years into 3-hour blocks. To be honest some lecturers can bore you to death, and some are not very good at explaining difficult concepts - but at the other end of the spectrum there are some brilliant lecturers too, so there is a broad range.
One note of warning - this course does have a high work load, and is mathematically demanding. You may find it wise to brush up on maths skills if you find you are not up to speed. Courses are not in anyway slow, and theres only one reading week in which you can catch up with work. As a second point, should you feel that mathematics may be a weakness, or is not stimulating for you, the physical sciences course (this is a course, as well as the faculty under which mathematics and physics are a part of - Ciao seems to have made it confusing) may be more appropriate, as this will allow you to choose more modules which suit your interests, yet still maintain a physics based degree.
Practical work in years 1 and 2 is standard laboratory work, whereby you will usually be able to pick a laboratory partner to undertake experimental physics in the fields of electronics, optics, microscopy etc. (note: this can be a very good way to meet other students - I have met some fantastic other students purely by being lab partners and getting to know them that way). Computing skills, including use of excel, statistical programs for data analysis, and mathematical programming languages are also taught as part of lab courses. The group project in year 3 can be somewhat stressful, but at the same time rewarding, and provides a good way of improving communication and teamwork skills.
As well as lectures and practicals, tutorials are incorporated for years 1 and 2. These are vital opportunities to ask questions and go through problems to increase your ability and confidence. Numbers per group are small (about 5) and are often good opportunities to ask about careers, and raise issues of concern on a 1-to1 basis regarding academic or personal issues. My personal tutor was very sympathetic and helpful when I encountered some family issues, so do not be afraid to ask for help or advice.
As a final note, the department has an active student society, Event Horizon, which does it's best to ensure you also have a good time socialising amongst othe people in the department. It organises trip abroad, guest lectures, freshers boat parties, quizzes and the opportunity to spend a weekend at a country lodge for fun and games! Alternatively, the student union about 20 paces from the department will provide much relief to many.
In additition to typical new undergraduates, there are also a handful of students who switch from other courses and other universities at various points in the year. If you are thinking of switching univeristies for whatever reason, my advice would be to make contact with the department tutor, who will have an informal chat with you, and be able to answer any questions. They are most accomadating, and will help you wherever they can. New students should apply through UCAS in the normal way before the end of February ideally as interviews are currently in progress for 2007 entry.
UCL physics - socially and academically a unique place to study and have some great memories.
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scotlandizdabest 14.09.2008 (21.10.2008)
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