Students who wish to pursue research after completing the M.Sc. course may be admitted to a research degree, either the M.Phil. (one year) or Ph.D. (normally two or three years). Opportunities exist within the Physics departments at Swansea for research in a wide variety of topics in theoretical physics. The M.Sc. degree is also a valuable qualification for students wishing to move on to a higher degree at another university. Applicants from other Universities may apply directly for a Ph.D place.

M.Phil. and Ph.D. students are individually supervised by a member of staff. At present there are around 15 students registered for M.Phil./Ph.D. degrees in the Theoretical Physics group. Facilities are good, with attractive offices, a well-stocked group library and excellent computing resources including two DEC alpha workstations.

Financial support for approximately three studentships each year is provided by the Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council and the University of Wales. Students from European Community countries may be eligible for EC studentships. Overseas students are encouraged to seek financial support within their home countries.

A feature of postgraduate study at Swansea is the Graduate School, recently set up to improve the status and professionalism of graduate education. A catalogue of all the courses on the campus will be available to encourage students to extend their knowledge. General courses in intellectual property rights, innovation, library and computer skills, etc. will be provided. A system of graduate representation is in place. The Graduate School will also act as a focus for the social life of graduate students.