About this course
Learn about the physics of magnetic resonance and its real-world applications on this unique master’s course at the University of Southampton. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy is crucial in providing insights for chemistry, biology and medicine. On this MSc you’ll benefit from hands-on experience with the latest magnetic resonance equipment. You’ll graduate with the knowledge and practical skills to move into industrial or academic research.
Magnetic resonance occurs when materials are placed in a strong magnetic field and exposed to radio waves.
It is used in chemistry through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and in medical diagnostics through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
On this UK master’s course you’ll learn how fundamental physics can be used to help solve real-world problems: with this degree you could help develop new applications for diagnosing cancer or protecting the environment.
The topics you’ll study include:
- the dynamics of nuclear spins
- the practical aspects of magnetic resonance research
- current problems in magnetic resonance research
- numerical simulation methods
There’s a strong focus on practical experience throughout the course. We’ll teach you how to:
- use modern magnetic resonance spectrometers
- gather and process NMR data
- interpret NMR data to answer research questions
You’ll also benefit from our strong industry connections and industry-standard facilities.
Our world-leading contributions to magnetic resonance research include:
- designing the NMR pulse methods used in all NMR spectrometers
- the discovery of nuclear spin quantum states with exceptionally long lifetimes
- developing miniature NMR detectors to study extremely small samples
Our flexible approach means you can adapt the course to your personal interests or career plans. A wide range of optional modules allows you to complement your knowledge of magnetic resonance with specialist courses in molecular cell biology, cancer biology, advanced quantum physics or computational chemistry.
Course lead
Your course leader is Dr Joern Werner, Reader in Structural Biology within Biological Sciences. His research interests include the role of protein dynamics in molecular recognition processes. Read Dr Werner's staff profile to find out more about his work.
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:1 degree in one of these subjects:
- chemistry
- physics
- biochemistry
- biomedical sciences
- engineering
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:
IELTS score requirements
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
Recognition of professional experience
If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.
Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This is full-time master’s course. Your studies will last a full 12 months.
For the first 8 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll focus on the taught part of your course. This is made up of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules that we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options.
Exams are held at the end of semesters 1 and 2.
For the rest of the course, you’ll work independently on your research project and dissertation.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
For entry in Academic Year 2019-20
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
You must also choose from the following modules:
Learning and assessment
Learning
The learning activities for this course include:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Assessment
We’ll assess you through:
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- a dissertation
- essays
- group essays
- individual and group projects
- written exams
Dissertation
You’ll carry out a personal research project over the summer and present your findings in a dissertation.
This is a chance for you to develop your research skills and in-depth knowledge of a topic that interests you. It might even lead to the publication of your first scientific paper.
Research topics could include:
- the interactions of a new drug with its target protein
- developing a new pulse sequence for manipulating nuclear spins
- developing a new hyperpolarisation method
During the project you’ll become a full member of a research group and work alongside PhD students and postdoctoral researchers.
You'll have regular meetings with your supervisor throughout the process.
Academic Support
We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.
You’ll also have a PhD student mentor.
Careers
With this master’s degree you’ll be well prepared for research and development roles in areas such as:
- chemical analytics
- medical sector
- biotechnical industry
- pharmaceuticals
- analytical instrument development
You’ll also be in a great position to continue your studies at PhD level.
Careers services at Southampton
We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV/resume and interview skills workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:
- our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
- a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
- our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £24,400.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
10% alumni discount
If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.
Funding your postgraduate studies
A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
- Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Submit your application.
Application deadlines
UK students
Applications must be received no later than 4 weeks before the start of the course. You must supply all supporting documentation at least 2 weeks before starting your course.
International students
We recommend you apply at least 6 weeks before the start of the course to ensure you're able to meet our requirements and apply for a visa in time.
We cannot guarantee students who do not meet these deadlines will be able to begin their course.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to send 2 academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We'll assess your application on the strength of your:
- academic achievements
- relevant professional experience
- personal statement
- academic references
We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
