View Specification DocumentHonours Computational Physics Laboratory PHYS4008
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Physics and Astronomy
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Semester 1
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
To provide students with an opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of the key principles and applications of the Computational Physics Laboratory course, and their relevance to current developments in physics.
Timetable
Tuesdays and Thursdays 11am-5pm
Requirements of Entry
This course is normally only open to students who meet the requirements for entry, or progression, for a degree programme which includes Honours Computational Physics Laboratory as an elective or compulsory course.
Honours Computational Physics Laboratory is a compulsory course for the following degree programmes:
BSc Theoretical Physics, MSci Theoretical Physics
Honours Computational Physics Laboratory is an elective course for the following degree programmes:
BSc (Designated) Physics, BSc (Designated) Combined Physics, BSc (Designated) Physics with Astrophysics
Honours Computational Physics Laboratory is a prohibited course for the following degree programmes:
BSc (Honours) Physics, BSc (Honours) Combined Physics, BSc (Honours) Chemical Physics, BSc (Honours) Physics with Astrophysics, MSci Combined Physics, MSci Physics with Astrophysics, MSci Chemical Physics, MSci Chemical Physics with Work Placement
Excluded Courses
Honours Physics Laboratory, Physics Group Project
Co-requisites
Mathematical Methods 1; Waves and Diffraction; Quantum Mechanics; Thermal Physics; Electromagnetic Theory 1; Theoretical Physics Group project
Assessment
Laboratory (80%)
Lab report (20%)
Main Assessment In: April/May
Course Aims
To provide students with an opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of the key principles of computational physics, and their importance for the planning and execution of computational investigations of physical processes using both standard and more advanced programming techniques and algorithms.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate a knowledge and broad understanding of the key principles of computational physics. They should be able to: programme straightforward procedures in a high level computer language; analyse and interpret computational data and make a critical assessment and draw valid conclusions from the results of computational investigations; apply computer software to analyse computational data and to write scientific reports; prepare a detailed written report on a computational investigation; apply logical analysis to problem solving; appreciate open problems typical of business situations.