Physics and the Physical Sciences

1. Physics and the Physical Sciences By the Ahmadiyya Muslim Womens’ Student Association

2. “ “ If mathematics is the language of the Universe, science is its reflection. The study of natural science aims to use the language of mathematics to uncover the secrets of the world around us. Studying science will help you to have a good understanding of the nature around you and to learn to appreciate even its smallest aspects. Science encompasses every aspect around you and its application extends from banking to social applications.

3. A-level subjects To study the Physical Sciences it may be necessary for you to have studied Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Further Mathematics. The particulars of which depend on the University you wish to attend so please check the requirements for that well before you choose your A-level courses.

4. Grade requirements The main requirements for the grades are: - • GCSE: - it may be possible that a specific number of passes or grades higher than B are expected. • A-Levels: - A*AA – BBC

5. Top 5 universities (From Times online) This list relates to physicas and physical sciences • Oxford • Cambridge • Imperial College London • University College London • University of Edinburgh

6. Entry exams Oxford (Physics) • Physics Aptitude Test (PAT)  Cambridge • Thinking Skills Assessment

7. Duration Structure • BSc: 3 years • MSc, Msci: 1 year The course has different emphasis in different universities, a selection of which can be seen in the list below. As it is evident there are a range of course that can be chosen depending on one's own interest therefore there are no compulsory subjects. • Chemistry • Physics • Computer Science • Material Science • Mathematics • Geological Sciences • History and Philosophy of Science • Astrophysics • Experimental and Theoretical Physics

8. Work experience / Extra-curricular activities • Read the scientific news from magazines such as: • New Scientist • Scientific American • Nature • Work experience in national laboratories, hospitals, possibly with University Professors, Pharmaceutical Industries etc. • Read about famous scientists, their research and lives • Read “Concepts of Modern Mathematics” by Ian Stewert • Read “Cosmic Anger: Abdus Salam - The First Muslim Nobel Scientist” by Gordon Fraser • Work through “Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering : A Comprehensive Guide” by Riley, Hobson, Bence. It is a very good book to work through and learn all the mathematical techniques which are necessary for science degree, it is a bit more expensive depending on where you buy it from but well worth the money if you definitely decide on studying science. • Another series of books, which are also very helpful are the Feynman Lectures. Though they are very expensive to buy, it might be possible to acquire an electronic copy.

9. Career opportunities • Researching • Teaching • Science Journalist • Finance/Banking • Politics • Economics • Further Studies • and many others

10. Ways to serve the Jama’at • Teaching • The area of teaching is one which has been repeatedly stressed upon by beloved Huzur (aba). Especially for Waqfe-nau students it would be in an excellent opportunity to serve the Jama’at. With teaching you have the opportunity to impart that you received with Allah's blessing along to the next generation. •  Research • Islam of all religions stresses most highly the pursuit of knowledge for both men and women. Researching is the epitome of that pursuit. Researching is one of the best ways of using the knowledge that you have learnt to serve humanity.

11. Personal Statement Examples • WE CAN HELP!! • Contact AMWSA at amwsa@hotmail.com • Please include the following details: • Name & Majlis • The subject your interested in.

12. Contacts • To contact Ahmadi, female Mathematics graduates and gain further advice contact amwsa@hotmail.com • Please include the following details: • Name & Majlis • The subject your interested in.

13. Additional recommendations • The benefits gained whilst studying physics and the physical sciences in particular is not just restricted to its own subject area. The main aim of a science course is to develop an analytical mind and to build up a toolbox of methods applicable to many areas. That is why this course open doors into a wide array of directions. Thus it is recommended that you study with that in mind and not just to pass exams • Read as widely as you can on science, once you have reached the level of understanding start reading research papers on the links provided below. • Go to open days if you are in you first year A-levels as these can be very useful when choosing courses and universities

14. Remember to send a letter to Beloved Huzur-e-Aqdas (aba) on a regular basis to seek his invaluable prayers and guidance.

15. Some helpful websites! http://mathworld.wolfram.com/ This website gives very brief definitions and descriptions on most keywords and theorems in maths. Therefore it is a very useful site when studying science. This site uses very specialized notation and descriptions. Keep that in mind but do not shy away from using it just because of that, rather learn to understand the language. http://arxiv.org/ A website to read a large range of preprint scientific papers,which includes all areas of science as well as mathematical papers relating to research currently being carried out. A very useful website for those intending to go into the field of research. http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/hframe.html A website briefly going over the basics of 1st – 2nd year physics in the course. It is helpful for quick reminders or as a revision tool to get the basics right.

16. Any questions, comments or feedback... email us at.... amwsa@hotmail.co.uk