Our Physics with Astrophysics Foundation Entry degree course keeps your options open in this fascinating area of study. You’ll cover everything from quantum physics to the formation of the universe.
Foundation Entry degree courses are ideal if you’ve got the ability to study for a degree, but don’t have the necessary formal qualifications to directly join an honours programme. You’ll also gain skills that are invaluable for many career routes. You’ll improve your mathematical skills, backed up by practical laboratory experience.
Why study with us
- You’ll gain in-depth knowledge of the laws of physics, and the stars and galaxies that make up the universe.
- In addition, you’ll become highly proficient at problem-solving and solving challenges through creative thinking.
- In the 2022 National Student Survey, 92% of Physics and Astrophysics respondents were overall satisfied with their course, with a 90% rating for the teaching on the course.
What you’ll do
- During your BSc (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics course, you’ll make real astronomical observations using our Alston Observatory, one of the largest teaching observatories in the UK.
- Course staff are members of the School’s Jeremiah Horrocks Institute. Many hold PhDs and are renowned active researchers.
- During your course you’ll learn through lectures, tutorials, seminars, problem classes, laboratory work, observatory experiments, individual project work and group work.
Module overview
Compulsory modules
• APC801: Foundations of Applied Physics
• APC802: Motion, Forces and Force Fields
• APC803: The Road to Quantum Mechanics
• MAC811: Pure Mathematics and Statistics
• MAC833: Mathematical Methods
Year 1
Compulsory modules
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AA1003: Astrophysics 1 - The Structure of the Universe
• AP1043: Electromagnetic Radiation and Quantum Theory
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AP1842: Mechanics
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AP1852: Applied Physics and Linear Systems
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AP1860: Practical Physics 1 - Programming and Experimental Physics
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MA1831: Functions, Vectors and Calculus
Year 2
Compulsory modules
• AA2001: Astrophysics 2
• AP2043: Electromagnetism and Waves
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AP2858: Thermal and Quantum Physics
• AP2859: Special Relativity and Solid State Physics
• AP2860: Practical Physics2 - Computing and Experimental Physics
• MA2831: Ordinary Differential Equations
Year 3
Compulsory modules
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AA3010: Formation, Structure and Evolution of Stars
• AA3853: Cosmology and Galaxies
• AP3860: Practical Physics 3- Experimental Physics and Problem Solving
Optional modules
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AP3840: Condensed Matter and Surface Physics
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AP3842: Nuclear and Particle Physics
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AP3844: Atomic Physics and Advanced Quantum Mechanics
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AP3845: Electrodynamics, Plasma and Solar Physics
• AP3950: Physics/Astronomy Project
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MA3831: Partial Differential Equations and Integral Transforms
Course delivery
This course is taught face-to-face at one of our UK campuses.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information. However, our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may cause alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses. Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies or revisions to subject benchmarks statements. As well as to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
Future careers
Physics, Astronomy, and Astrophysics graduates are amongst the most employable in the world, particularly in technical and business sectors, where analytical and mathematical skills are at a premium.
Our Physics with Astrophysics Foundation Entry course can lead to jobs in industry, government research institutes or overseas laboratories and observatories. You could also work in financial institutions, teach or become a scientific journalist.
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