Programmes and reading lists
Information about the degree structure and programme specific reading lists.
Degree Programmes
Everyone admitted to the University of Edinburgh to study for a degree must follow a specific 'Degree Programme' (e.g. Particle and Nuclear Physics, Theoretical Physics). Each programme is made of a set of 'courses' (often known as 'modules' at other universities) each of which is assigned a level (loosely indicating its difficulty) and credit value (quantifying its size). You can check the courses which are compulsory for your degree by looking up the relevant Degree Programme.
Programme structures
You will follow two taught semesters of lectures, tutorials, project work and written assignments. Following the taught component of the programme, you will undertake a three-month research project leading to a dissertation, which is completed during the summer.
MSc in Theoretical Physics and MSc In Mathematical Physics
MSc in Particle and Nuclear Physics
MSc in Astrobiology and Planetary Science
Reading lists
MSc in Theoretical Physics and MSc in Mathematical Physics
MSc in Particle and Nuclear Physics
MSc in Astrobiology and Planetary Sciences
Your Timetable
You will have a personalised timetable which you can view in MyEd.
Courses
Course Catalogue - Physics and Astronomy courses
Details of all courses are on PATH:
MSc Astrobiology and Planetary Science
Msc Particle and Nuclear Physics
Here you can also find recommended text books for the courses you are interested in taking.
It is useful to look through one recommended text before starting each course, but not essential as most courses are self-contained and printed lecture notes are provided. Each course lecturer will provide further information on the recommended texts for their course, and they will tell you how much you may need to consult these texts.
For details of all degrees and courses at the University, see the Degree Regulations and Programmes of Study (DRPS) 2023/2024: http://www.drps.ed.ac.uk/23-24/dpt/drpsindex.htm
Important
Note that many courses list pre-requisites. Strictly, these pre-requisites apply only to students who were undergraduates at the University of Edinburgh. Graduates of other universities should check that they took courses covering similar material in their undergraduate degrees. Your Personal Tutor will be happy to answer your questions on pre-requisites.