| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Through a combination of lectures, lab sessions, and tutorials, students develop practical skills in lab work and programming while gaining a comprehensive education in physics with a specialist focus in astrophysics. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, specialist areas of physics, and various sectors such as energy, business, and technology.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Astrophysics
applies physics and mathematics to understanding astronomical objects and the universe as a whole, including planets, stars, and galaxies. This program focuses on understanding the origin and evolution of the universe, one of the most exciting and challenging problems in modern science. Through a combination of practical and theoretical approaches, you'll explore the evolution and properties of astrophysical systems, the methods used by astronomers to determine the composition and distance of other stars and galaxies, and the role of dark matter and dark energy in the large-scale structure of the universe. Specialist modules cover cosmology, galaxies, stars, and planetary systems, taught by world-renowned researchers actively involved in high-profile research projects. Extra option modules allow you to delve into topics beyond the core syllabus, providing a comprehensive education in physics with a specialist focus in astrophysics. You'll develop practical skills in lab work and programming that can be applied in various fields, including commerce, industry, or research. Additionally, you'll complete an independent research project supervised by one of the School's astrophysicists in your final year, further developing your individual interests.
- One double module based on previous math qualifications.
Year 1
- Compulsory modules:
- Classical Physics
- Electric and Magnetic Fields
- Mathematical Techniques 1 and 2
- Modern Physics
- Professional Skills for Scientists
- Scientific Measurement
Year 2
- Compulsory modules:
- Condensed Matter A
- Electromagnetic Waves and Optics
- Introduction to Scientific Computing
- Planetary Systems
- Quantum Mechanics A
- Stars
- Thermodynamics
- Choose one elective module:
- Mathematical Techniques 3
- Nuclear Physics and Astrophysics
Year 3
- Compulsory modules:
- Extended Independent Project (BSc)
- Physical Cosmology
- Spacetime and Gravity
- Statistical Physics
- Choose two elective modules:
- Elementary Particle Physics
- Quantum Mechanics and Symmetry
- Quantum Mechanics B
- Statistical Data Analysis
Year 4 (MSci only)
- Compulsory module:
- Physics Investigative Project (30 credits)
- Choose six elective modules from:
- Advanced Cosmology
- Advanced Quantum Field Theory
- Astrophysical Plasmas
- Differential Geometry in Theoretical Physics
- Extrasolar Planets and Astrophysical Disks
- Functional Methods in Quantum Field Theory
- Introduction to Strings and Branes
- Practical Machine Learning
- Radiative Transfer and Astrochemistry
- Relativistic Waves and Quantum Fields
- Relativity and Gravitation
- Solar System
- Stellar Structure and Evolution
- Supersymmetric Methods in Theoretical Physics
Assessment
Assessment methods vary depending on the modules and their content. For example:
- Modules involving only practical work will be assessed through lab reports.
- Modules without practical aspects will be assessed through weekly coursework, termly assignments, and end-of-year examinations.
Teaching
The program uses a combination of teaching methods including:
- Lectures
- Laboratory sessions
- Tutorial classes The program requires approximately 20 hours of teaching per week, but you'll also be expected to dedicate time to independent study, completing coursework, and lab reports. On average, you should expect to spend 30-40 hours per week on your studies.
Other
- This program is accredited by the Institute of Physics.
- You can complete your Astrophysics degree in three, four, or five years.
- If you choose to study abroad, your time abroad will be during Year 3 for BSc or Year 4 for MSci, and the year abroad modules will be studied in Year 4 for BSc or Year 5 for MSci.
- The School offers excellent on-campus resources such as teaching laboratories, a rooftop observatory, a dedicated study space for physics students, and professional research facilities for use in final-year projects.
Careers
Graduates often continue their studies with a PhD or MSc, often leading to a career in research. The flexibility of the program also prepares you for careers in specialist areas of physics and science more broadly, and the skills developed can also be transferred to various sectors such as energy, business, marketing, engineering, technology, IT, and finance. The School organizes specialist industrial placements for physics and astronomy students, providing exclusive work opportunities in various industries and companies.
Home fees:
£9,250
Overseas fees:
£28,350
Queen Mary University of London
Overview:
Queen Mary University of London is a public research university located in London, England. It is a member of the prestigious Russell Group of leading UK universities. Queen Mary is known for its strong research output, particularly in the fields of medicine, science, and humanities.
Services Offered:
Queen Mary offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
Affordable accommodation options on or near the university's campuses in Mile End, Whitechapel, and Charterhouse Square.Careers and Enterprise:
Support for students in their career development, including job search assistance, internships, and networking opportunities.Library:
Extensive library resources, including books, journals, databases, and online resources.Student Life:
A vibrant student life with numerous clubs, societies, and events.International Student Support:
Dedicated support for international students, including visa advice, immigration guidance, and cultural integration programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Queen Mary provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from over 160 countries. Students can expect:
Global Community:
A diverse and international student body, fostering a rich cultural exchange.Campus Life:
A safe and secure campus environment with a range of facilities, including sports centers, cafes, and student spaces.London Advantage:
The opportunity to study in one of the world's most exciting and dynamic cities.Key Reasons to Study There:
Research Excellence:
Queen Mary is ranked highly for its research quality, offering students access to cutting-edge research and opportunities to work alongside leading academics.Diverse Academic Programs:
A wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including medicine, science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences.Global Reputation:
Queen Mary's strong reputation as a leading university attracts students and employers worldwide.London Location:
The university's location in London provides students with access to world-class cultural attractions, museums, theaters, and employment opportunities.Academic Programs:
Queen Mary offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
A wide variety of undergraduate degrees across various disciplines.Postgraduate Programs:
Taught and research postgraduate programs, including Master's degrees and PhDs.Online Programs:
Flexible online learning options for students who prefer distance learning.Other:
- Queen Mary is committed to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.
- The university has a strong focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.
- Queen Mary has a rich history and is associated with several notable alumni, including Nobel laureates and prominent figures in various fields.
Entry Requirements
Astrophysics - BSc (Hons)
A-Level:
Grades ABB at A-Level. This must include grade A or above in at least one of Mathematics and Physics. Both subjects are required. Excludes General Studies.
IB:
International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 32 points overall, including 6,5,5 from three Higher Level subjects. This must include 6 in Higher Level Mathematics or Physics, with both subjects being taken at Higher Level. Excludes General Studies, Critical Thinking.
- Our enhanced contextual offer (for care experienced students, refugee/asylum seekers or students who have completed Realising Opportunities or Access to Queen Mary): Grades BCC including BC in Maths and Physics at A-Level. Excludes General Studies, Critical Thinking.
Physics with Foundation - BSc (Hons)
A-Level:
Grades CCC at A-Level.
IB:
International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 26 points overall, including 4,4,4 from three Higher Level subjects. Higher Level Mathematics or Physics is preferred.
Access HE:
We consider applications from students with the Access to Higher Education Diploma in a science discipline, e.g. Biology, Chemistry, Maths or Physics. The minimum academic requirement is to achieve 60 credits overall, with 45 credits at Level 3, of which 15 credits must be at Distinction, 15 credits at Merit and 15 credits at Pass or higher.
Astrophysics with Year Abroad - BSc (Hons)
A-Level:
Grades ABB at A-Level. This must include grade A or above in at least one of Mathematics and Physics. Both subjects are required. Excludes General Studies.
IB:
International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 32 points overall, including 6,5,5 from three Higher Level subjects. This must include 6 in Higher Level Mathematics or Physics, with both subjects being taken at Higher Level. Excludes General Studies, Critical Thinking.
- Our enhanced contextual offer (for care experienced students, refugee/asylum seekers or students who have completed Realising Opportunities or Access to Queen Mary): Grades BCC including BC in Maths and Physics at A-Level. Excludes General Studies, Critical Thinking.
Astrophysics - MSci (Hons)
A-Level:
Grades AAB at A-Level. This must include grade A or above in both A-Level Mathematics and Physics. Excludes General Studies.
IB:
International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 34 points overall, including 6,6,5 from three Higher Level subjects. This must include a minimum of 6 in both Higher Level Mathematics, and Higher Level Physics. Excludes General Studies, Critical Thinking.
- Our enhanced contextual offer (for care experienced students, refugee/asylum seekers or students who have completed Realising Opportunities or Access to Queen Mary): Grades BBC including BB in Maths and Physics at A-Level. Excludes General Studies, Critical Thinking.
Astrophysics with Year Abroad - MSci (Hons)
A-Level:
Grades AAB at A-Level. This must include grade A or above in both A-Level Mathematics and Physics. Excludes General Studies.
IB:
International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 34 points overall, including 6,6,5 from three Higher Level subjects. This must include a minimum of 6 in both Higher Level Mathematics, and Higher Level Physics. Excludes General Studies, Critical Thinking.
- Our enhanced contextual offer (for care experienced students, refugee/asylum seekers or students who have completed Realising Opportunities or Access to Queen Mary): Grades BBC including BB in Maths and Physics at A-Level. Excludes General Studies, Critical Thinking.
Non-UK Students:
Queen Mary also accepts a wide range of European and international qualifications.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- For EU Students: Queen Mary requires all EU students whose first language is not English to have achieved a minimum of IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification.
- For Overseas Students: Queen Mary requires all overseas students whose first language is not English to achieve a minimum of IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. You may be required to take a pre-sessional English language course if your English language skills do not meet the required standards.
