| 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
