Science project course: radiation and matter

In this module, you’ll undertake an individual investigation within a defined topic, which are quantum entanglement, gravitational lensing, exoplanets, astrophysical jets and Physics Education Research (PER). You’ll need access to scientific literature, probably from electronic library sources. The study materials guide planning and conducting project work, searching and using the literature, and writing a report.

What you will study

A range of topics are possible, and your chosen topic will allow you to exploit the knowledge, understanding and skills developed in your OU level 3 physics and astronomy modules. Early in the module, the study materials, tutorials and discussions with your tutor will guide you to choose an appropriate topic to investigate in depth. Your project will need to consider contextualisation, development, application, detailed analysis and ‘what next’ for your chosen topic. You might have to spend up to two-thirds of your time identifying suitable material to inform your choice of project topic in the early part of the module.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this module.

At The Open University, we believe education should be open to all, so we provide high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.

Even though there are no entry requirements, you’ll need appropriate knowledge of physical sciences obtained through the following:

• OU level 1 to 3 study or
• equivalent work at another higher education institution

Are you ready for SXP390?

Preparatory work

We recommend you’ve completed the following:

• Astrophysics of stars and exoplanets (S384) or
• Quantum physics (SM380) or
• Cosmology and the distant Universe (S385)

We also recommend familiarising yourself with the Library search tool and referencing guide.

What's included

You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:

• a study planner 
• course-specific module materials
• assignment details and submission section
• online tutorial access.

Computing requirements

• Primary device – A desktop or laptop computer. It’s possible to access some materials on a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook; however, they will not be suitable as your primary device.
• Peripheral device – Headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone for online tutorials.
• Our OU Study app operates on supported versions of Android and iOS.
• Operating systems – Windows 11 or latest supported macOS. Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10 as of 14 October 2025.
• Internet access – Broadband or mobile connection.
• Browser – Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are recommended. Mozilla Firefox and Safari may be suitable.

Teaching and assessment

Support from your tutor

Throughout your module studies, you’ll get help and support from your assigned module tutor. They’ll help you by:

• Marking your assignments and providing detailed feedback for you to improve.
• Guiding you to additional learning resources.
• Providing individual guidance, whether that’s for general study skills or specific module content.
• Facilitating online discussions between your fellow students, in the dedicated module and tutor group forums.

Module tutors also run online tutorials throughout the module. Where possible, recordings of online tutorials will be made available to students. While these tutorials won’t be compulsory for you to complete the module, you’re strongly encouraged to take part.

Assessment

The assessment details for this module can be found in the facts box above.