Questions and Answers

For New and Prospective Students

Where is the School of Physics and Astronomy?

We are located in the G.O Jones Building on the Mile End Campus, midway between Stepney Green and Mile End Tube stations, approximately 15-20 minutes from central London on the Central or District lines. If exiting Stepney Green tube station, turn left and walk along the Mile End Road for approximately 300 metres. The G.O. Jones (Physics) building is to the right of the main college building (Queens' Building), which is fronted by a clock tower and lawn. If exiting Mile End tube station, turn left and walk approximately 300 metres until you are opposite the main college building.

What and when is Welcome week?

Welcome week runs from 21st September-25th September 2015 and will comprise of a series of events designed to assist with the commencement of your university studies.  You will be introduced to key members of the School, given information about your timetable, programme of study, academic facilities, the Students' Union and the wider Queen Mary environment.  You will also be formally enrolled on your programme of studies.  This week gives you important opportunities to meet with staff and students alike and will provide the foundation for your years at Queen Mary. A timetable of activities will be provided shortly.

What and When is Enrolment?

Enrolment is where students who have been accepted onto a course of study register for their course. Students are expected to Pre-enrol online between August and September. This is to save you time and prevent long waiting. More information on enrolment and details on what to bring can be found via here

What are the term dates?

Term dates can be found http://www.arcs.qmul.ac.uk/students/sec/term-dates/index.html

What and When is reading week?

Reading week occurs once a semester. It is a week in which all teaching is suspended to allow students to focus in their independent studies and catch up with any work.

Reading week this academic year falls on;

Semester A: 9 November 2015

Semester B: 22 February 2016

Where can I get a copy of my timetable?

Your timetable is available online here. Hard copies are available in Room 110 on the First floor of the G.O Jones (Physics) building. 

Who does what in the School?

Your student handbook will have further information but if you have a query and don't know who the right person to ask try checking the following list. When you begin your studies with us you will be allocated an Academic Adviser. This person is an academic member of staff who will be responsible for giving you advice on module choices and they will also meet with you to discuss your progress. If you have any issues whilst at university, your Adviser or the Student Support Officer should be your first point of contact. They are well placed to help find a solution to whatever your problem may be. You will meet your Adviser in Welcome week.

Where can I find Academic staff in the School?

Here at the School of Physics and Astronomy we have an open door policy so students can visit lecturers and advisers according to the office hours published on Module webpages. A full Staff list is available here.

What shall I do if I run into Financial difficulties?

Managing your money is a very important part of student life. If you manage your budget well, you are less likely to experience financial problems, which could seriously affect your studies. If you can, plan your weekly budget before you start your course, and try to stick to it.  You can book an appointment to see a Welfare Advisor at any stage in your course, or before you enrol, they aim to help students to budget and avoid their finances becoming a problem at all. Read their leaflet written especially for QM students or have a look at the Budget Calculator on the UCAS website. Follow these links for further financial support information, advice on Tuition fee payments and Money matters information.

Where can I get my 18+ Student Oyster Card?

It is a good idea to apply for a Student Oyster card as they offer cheaper rates of travel on London Transport. In order to apply for a TFL student photocard online you will need a digital passport photo to upload, your university enrolment number, and a debit or credit card to pay the £10 application fee. More details can be found at Transport for London.

Is the School on Facebook & Twitter?

Yes, the School is active on both site links to our pages can be found here;

Facebook  Twitter

Can't find the answer to your question here?  Get in touch with the Student Support Officer, Lucie Bone, who will be happy to help answer your questions.