Computational Physics

The close relationship between physics and high performance computing worldwide is embodied in the Computational Physics degree programme.

Most theoretical problems are now sufficiently complex that they cannot be solved by mathematics alone.

As experimentation becomes more difficult and expensive, computer simulation has become the most practical way to understand complex phenomena such as:

• turbulence

• nuclear reactors and weapons

• climate change

These are the areas where computational physicists already dominate. In the future, based on current recruitment patterns, the methods of Computational Physics will also come to dominate other areas such as:

• financial markets

• genomics

• disease control

This physics-based programme is for students interested in computing, modelling and simulation. You will study:

• programming

• algorithms

• problem-solving methodologies

You will receive a thorough education in physics and the associated mathematics, together with the ability to write computer programs to simulate natural systems.

Programme benefits

• The School of Physics and Astronomy has close links with the Royal Observatory, Edinburgh, one of the UK's major centres of astronomical research.

• The Institute for Astronomy (IfA), one of the School's research institutes, is based at the Royal Observatory Edinburgh.

• You will be taught by academic staff with links to major research facilities across the world, including CERN, TRIUMF, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and a number of principal astronomy facilities.

• This programme is accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP).