What is Studying Physics at UK Universities Like?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the experience of studying physics at universities in the UK, including aspects such as exam formats, workload, social life, and the nature of the subject itself. Participants share their personal experiences and insights regarding the academic environment, teaching styles, and the balance between study and leisure.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that the experience of studying physics varies significantly between universities, with no standardized degree structure in the UK.
  • One participant describes the exam structure at their university, Warwick, highlighting the unpredictability of exam questions and the importance of consistent study throughout the year.
  • Another participant mentions that while some students may find time for social activities, the workload can become more demanding in later years, potentially limiting leisure time.
  • Concerns are raised about the quality of teaching, with some participants suggesting that students may need to teach themselves much of the material due to varying lecturer effectiveness.
  • One participant expresses a desire to pursue a joint honours degree in Maths and Physics for better career prospects, indicating a practical motivation for studying the subject.
  • Another participant shares a negative experience, describing studying physics at Imperial College as "HELL," suggesting high levels of stress or difficulty.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the nature of studying physics, with some agreeing on the challenges and unpredictability of exams, while others emphasize the variability in experiences based on individual universities and personal commitment. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall experience and expectations of physics students.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention different university structures, exam formats, and teaching styles, indicating that experiences may depend on specific institutions and personal approaches to study. There are also references to the social aspects of university life, which may vary widely among students.

Who May Find This Useful

Prospective students considering studying physics at UK universities, individuals interested in the academic environment of STEM fields, and those seeking insights into the balance between academic and social life in higher education.

  • #31
cristo said:
If you're in the UK on a student visa then the number of hours per week you are allowed to work is restricted by the immigration services.
Yeah, but since he's from the EU, I don't think he'd have any restrictions imposed upon him. I'm not completely sure those transitive periods are over for all countries, though, so there might still be a catch somewhere.
 
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  • #32
Ryker said:
Yeah, but since he's from the EU, I don't think he'd have any restrictions imposed upon him.

If he is from the EU then he won't be here on a student visa.
 
  • #34
Looks like it did materialize. Can anyone tell me if this affair will affect universities in Scotland? Edinburgh or St. Andrews for example.
 
  • #35
H_man said:
If you want to really learn physics then you will spend most of your evenings studying and only a couple of evenings a week drinking in the union bar or some other activity.

That's not true. As a full time student you can spend all day studying - you can do something else every evening, and still *really* learn physics! That said, a couple of evenings a month is probably enough time to spend in the average union bar - try acting, dancing, chess, clubs, dating girls (!), Indian restaurants, russian restaurants, classical concerts, pop concerts... every night.. you get the idea... There is no time in your life when you will be able to experience such a wide range of experiences. Get out there and enjoy! As long as you don't get too many hangovers you'll be all the fresher for your day "job" - studying physics - which should also be fun - if not do something else!
 
  • #36
y=x^2 said:
Looks like it did materialize. Can anyone tell me if this affair will affect universities in Scotland? Edinburgh or St. Andrews for example.

For said universities the cap has been raised to £9,000, I'm afraid. (Unless you're scottish)
 
  • #37
Chewy0087 said:
For said universities the cap has been raised to £9,000, I'm afraid. (Unless you're scottish)

Well, now what?.. £36k of debt is a bit much for me. Perhaps it's not entirely off-topic, where else could I enroll in physics, regarding the fact that I know no other language except my native and English and I will be a bachelor in economics in a semester?
 

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