Report Thematic Group 1 part 3

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Report Thematic Group 1 part 3

• European Framework for Physics Bachelor Degree

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Summary

• Reference framework for a 180 ECTS Bachelor
  degree in Physics
• Describing the specific skills knowledge needed
  for a physicist
• Based on the results of the Tuning project
• Not a duplication of existing degree
  accreditation systems

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Background

• Large changes in most European countries due to
  introduction of Bologna Bachelor/Master
• Formal accreditation systems for degrees
• Tuning Project
• EuroBachelor in Chemistry
• Fewer physics students in many countries
• Increasing numbers of general science degrees

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Why do it?

• Quality mark for Physics degrees
• Aids
• Student mobility for Masters
• Recognition by employers
• Recognition of degrees from less well known
  universities
• Improves standing of degree within university
  (against replacement by general science degree)

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What it is not

• Standardised Physics degree syllabus
• Possible to teach same content in different ways
• Not every physics topic is absolutely necessary
• Replacement for normal accreditation system
• Complementary, as it deals with physics content
  only not the general organisation of the degree

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Degree structure

• Based on a 180 credit / 3 year degree
• Minimum 90 credits of core physics courses
• 15 credits to physics related subjects
• 60 credits optional
• Recommended 15 credit Bachelor thesis/project
• Minimum figures, may be exceeded

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Compatibility with other structures

• Compatible with 240 credit / 4 year degree
• First year general science then specialise
• Subsidiary subject throughout degree
• More physics content
• Not all degrees in a particular physics
  department may qualify

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Core physics content 1

• Maths Computing
• Basic maths, mathematical methods, computing
• Basic Physics
• Classical, quantum physics, laboratory
• Theoretical Physics
• Analytical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum
  mechanics. Statistical physics

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Core physics content 2

• Modern Physics
• Atomic, nuclear, solid state, astrophysics
• Applied Physics
• Electronics, chemistry etc.
• Laboratory
• Laboratory work, physics projects, Bachelor
  thesis project

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Chemistry Implementation

• Chemistry EuroBachelor
• Adopted by the European Chemistry Thematic
  Network Association (formally constituted body)
• Involves site visits expenses
• 23 universities in 12 countries have qualified

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Implementation

• Awarding body
• European Physical Society ?
• Formalised Physics Thematic Network ?
• Other ?
• Self assessment by university
• Still requires organisation