UCEAP Physics for Life Sciences

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This is a calculus-based introductory level physics course with a laboratory component for international summer students.

The course consists of two consecutive 10 credits 4 weeks long modules. This intensive course introduces fundamental concepts of physics as a foundation for more advanced studies in Physics and applications in other areas of science.

Module 1

  • dynamics & relativity,
  • rotation & equilibrium
  • fluids.

Module 2

  • heat & thermodynamics,
  • waves & sounds,
  • geometrical & wave optics.

Competence in basic calculus as well as algebra, geometry and trigonometry is essential.

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Key facts

Arrival date: Thursday 20th June 2024

Orientation day: Friday 21st June 2024

Classes start: Monday 24th June 2024

Classes end: Friday 16th August 2024

Credits: 20 

Assessment information: Mixed method assessment, completed throughout the course 

 

What you will learn

The aim of the course is to give you a good basic understanding of the main physics topics and to introduce methods of experimental physics. It will provide a good foundation of basic physics for aspiring Physicists as well as being applicable to other areas of science and technology. This course provides the opportunity for you to focus your efforts and accelerate your learning over the summer vacation period. 

On completion of this course you should understand the basic principles and laws of physics in the following areas: dynamics & relativity, elasticity & fluids, thermal physics, waves & oscillations and geometrical & wave optics.

In these aspects of physics, you should be able to: 

  • state the basic laws of physics topics covered and identify how they can be applied in various contexts 
  • perform calculations and give predictions of outcomes in simple physical systems 
  • identify relevant physical concepts, formulate solutions to problems and present the solutions in a clear and concise manner 
  • perform simple physical and virtual experiments using their mobile phones, computers and a variety of apparatus, including the gathering, interpretation and analysis of data. 

Teaching pattern

Full time for 8 weeks.