MPhys Physics with Theoretical Physics / Course details

Year of entry: 2027

Course unit details:
Introduction to Programming

Course unit fact file
Unit code PHYS10362
Credit rating 10
Unit level Level 1
Teaching period(s) Semester 2
Offered by Department of Physics & Astronomy
Available as a free choice unit? No

Overview

A practical introduction to computer programming for physicists.

Aims

The aim of the course is to give a practical introduction to computer programming for physicists assuming little or no previous programming experience.

Learning outcomes

  • Implement basic programming theory to write efficient code.
  • Write programs in Python to aid them in practical situations they will face in their degree course and future work in physics and other fields.

Syllabus

Week 1: Getting Started 
Week 2: Functions and Control Flow 
Week 3: Iteration and Recursion 
Week 4: Validation & Numpy 
Week 5: Numpy Arrays
Week 6: Algorithms 

Teaching and learning methods

Lecture

Independent Study

Practical

Assessment methods

Method Weight
Other 35%
Written assignment (inc essay) 65%

Feedback methods

Feedback will be provided via Blackboard.

Recommended reading

Reading lists are managed by The University of Manchester Library's Reading Lists Online service.

Study hours

Scheduled activity hours
Lectures 10
Practical classes & workshops 66
Independent study hours
Independent study 24

Teaching staff

Staff member Role
Charanjit Kaur Unit coordinator
Andrina Alexandra Xenia Nicola Unit coordinator
Clive Dickinson Unit coordinator
Mark Lancaster Unit coordinator

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