Standard Model Physics and Beyond

This module will introduce you to the physics of the Standard Model of Particle Physics and its minimal supersymmetric extensions. The syllabus covers the following:

• Equations of motion and Lagrangians for fields of spin 0, 1/2 and 1
• Solutions to the Dirac equation
• Transformation properties of spin 0, 1/2 and 1 fields under Lorentz transformations
• Methods for computing conserved (Noether) currents associated with symmetries in classical relativistic field theories
• Concept of current algebra
• Concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking in the context of global symmetries
• Goldstone's theorem and its application to determine the number of Goldstone (i.e. massless) bosons
• Lagrangians for Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) and Scalar Electrodynamics
• Concepts of 'gauging a theory' and the 'gauge covariant derivative'
• Spontaneous symmetry breaking of an Abelian gauge symmetry, including knowledge of the fate of the Goldstone bosons, the generation of a gauge-boson mass, and connections to the phenomenon of superconductivity within the context of Scalar Electrodynamics
• Lagrangians for non-Abelian gauge theories
• Spontaneous symmetry breaking of non-Abelian gauge theories
• The electroweak sector of the Standard Model and its spontaneous breaking to electromagnetism and the weak nuclear force
• Generation of mass terms for leptons and quarks through the Higgs mechanism
• Concepts of total width, partial width, branching ratio and lifetime
• Calculation of phase space integrals in decay problems
• Calculation of tree-level scattering amplitudes in decay problems.

The module aims to provide you with the following:

• The ability to proficiently utilise a diverse array of learning resources, enabling you to undertake research tasks with some guidance
• The ability to confidently navigate complex and specialised contexts, potentially at the cutting edge of knowledge
• Encourage you to develop into a self-critical learner, consistently evaluating your progress and seeking opportunities for continuous improvement
• Cultivate your communication skills, effectively conveying topics related to Particle Physics to both specialists and non-specialists alike
• Equip you with a deep understanding of the subject matter
• By mastering the acquired techniques, you will critically analyse and comprehend a variety of theories relevant to Particle Physics.

​​T​he standard entry requirements comprise:

• A 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent in Physics: Particle Physics
• A CV and personal statement outlining your reasons for study
• English language band D (for example, IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each skill).

You will be assessed via coursework and examination, as follows:

• Coursework = 20%
• Examination = 80%.

This is an on-campus module. Students are expected to attend in-person lectures, problem discussions and group work discussion totaling 4 hours per week.

This module is offered as part of our flexible master’s awards in Professional Development. The awards are one of the most flexible currently offered in the UK, providing the opportunity to study a range of modules from across King’s, both on-campus and online. Whether you are looking for a promotion or to retrain, you have come to the right place.

Designed for mature professionals juggling life and work commitments, our postgraduate awards will enable you to study at your own pace. In challenging financial times, you are also able to fund your studies module-by-module. We will support you to select the right module diet that meets your objectives while ensuring that you are well prepared for success. We will also help you to build your professional network of peers from across our suite of CPD modules.

We can’t wait for you to continue your lifelong learning journey here at King’s.