This course will explain the basic concepts in particle physics, starting from the basic blocks of matter as we know them before looking at the fundamental forces and experimental methods used in ongoing investigations in the field. You will learn about the elementary particles and fundamental forces acting between them and understand the behaviour of all known matter, from very small-scale particles to the very large scale of the universe and its composition. We will also explain main experimental techniques, from particle accelerators to particle detectors and statistical data analyses. We hope that by the end of the programme you will be able to confidently reassure others that the LHC will not destroy the world!
Course content is subject to change.
Course aims
This course aims to:
build your basic knowledge of particle physics: its elementary particles and fundamental forces
help you understand how particles and forces build matter as we know it
help you understand how particles and forces can be studied in experiments: eg the basic functioning of particle accelerators and detectors
train you to critically interpret media reports on particle physics
provide the opportunity for you to gain experience of writing and talking about particle physics at a level either appropriate to a scientist or a layman.
Teaching and learning
You will be taught through a combination of lectures, laboratory work, and workshops.
Learning outcomes
You will learn/develop:
a basic knowledge of particle physics and experimental techniques in the subject
how to review the scientific methods and tools exploited in the field and their connections to a wide set of applications
an understanding and curiosity for ongoing research and its future developments
You will develop:
an awareness of the mathematical, statistical, and computational tools used in the field
effective skills to understand basic scientific literature, and discuss and communicate research outcomes
communication skills and tools in the context of a scientific topic
a critical engagement with subject-specific knowledge, especially in the context of the interpretation of media sources
refined communication and writing skills
a global perspective of the subject area and its social context.
Fees
The Queen Mary Summer School costs: £1,650 per session, which includes tution and social programme.
We offer a 10% discount to:
Students and staff from partner institutions
Alumni
Current Queen Mary students
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation is approximately £500 per session. For further information, please visit our page.
Additional costs and course excursions
There may be additional costs for field trips, such as entry to exhibitions, which will be in the region of £10-20. All reading material will be provided online, so it is not necessary to purchase any books.
Please note there is no deposit payment required for the Queen Mary Summer School.
Entry requirements
To join our Summer School, you should have completed a minimum of two semesters’ study at your home institution.
We welcome Summer School students from around the world. We accept a range of qualifications:
if your home institution uses the four-point Grade Point Average (GPA) scale, we usually require a 3.0 GPA
if your home institution uses the letter scale, you will need to have a B+
We welcome international qualifications and we consider every application individually on its academic merit.
English language requirements
All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English isn’t your first language, you must meet one of the following English Language requirements in order to join the Queen Mary Summer School:
If you hold a degree from a majority English speaking country plus Canada you may use this degree to satisfy the English language requirements for entry, provided the degree was completed no more than 5 years before the start date of the course to which you are applying.
IELTS, 6.5 overall or higher, with at least 6 in all sub scores
TOEFL Internet Based Test we require a minimum of 92 (L21; S23; R22; W24)
China UEE (University Entrance Exam) - 110
CET 4 – 550 or CET 6 – 490
PTE Academic 62
Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English 176 60- grade C (old marking system)
Have a question? Get in touch, one of the team will be happy to help.
Application deadline: 26 May 2019.
What do I need to apply?
You’ll need to upload the following documents together with your online application:
your current academic transcript or your record of studies to date
evidence of your English Language proficiency, if your first language isn’t English
a written statement explaining why you'd like to attend the Summer School
a copy of your passport
What do I do next?
check that you meet the eligibility criteria
work with your home university adviser to select the courses you want to study at Queen Mary and ensure they are approved/can transfer back to your own institution
gather your transcripts and your proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
fill out our online application form
What happens then?
we make a decision on your application within 5 days of your application date and send you an offer letter
you accept our offer
apply for a visa (if you need it)
book your flights to London**
read all of our pre-departure emails carefully before you arrive
pack and get ready for your stay in London
arrive in London and move into your new home with us on campus
join the welcome programme and start your course
complete all your welcome programme/orientation tasks
enjoy your time at the Queen Mary Summer School
** Please don’t connect or enter the UK via Ireland, as there are visa restrictions.
