Did you ever wonder how stars and galaxies came to be? An Astrophysics degree can provide the answer. You'll gain the skills, methods and knowledge to investigate the physics of our universe.
Studying our Astrophysics BSc (Hons) degree offers the opportunity to explore the very fabric of our universe. You’ll develop skills in various scientific methods. And also learn how physics applies to stellar objects and systems.
With us, you’ll work in a state-of-the-art learning environment for practical analysis. You will interpret and model astronomical data, developing a sophisticated knowledge base. You’ll also get the chance to spend a year abroad, whether studying at a partner institution or working on an approved research project.
Upon graduation, you will leave with well-developed excellent observational skills, coupled with keen problem-solving abilities. It’s the kind of mix that’s attractive to employers in a wide range of sectors – from medical physics and education to oil and gas.
Why study with us
- Learn at one of the UK’s best-equipped teaching observatories, with our recent £200,000 investment in probably the most powerful modern optical telescope available in the country.
- Physics and Astronomy is ranked 2nd in the North West for research intensity (CUG, 2022). Research intensity is a measure of the amount of staff involved in high-quality research in the university.
- 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
- This course begins with the same introductory modules as both our Physics and Physics with Astrophysics courses, so you’ll have the flexibility to switch within your first year.
- We collaborate with some of the world’s leaders in the field, including NASA and the Southern African Large Telescope: you’ll become an active part of our vibrant research culture, learning from research-informed teaching, working on projects and even joining funded internships.
- If you’re doing well on the BSc programme, you can step up to the MPhys route – an ideal option for a career in scientific research.
Module overview
Year 1Compulsory modules
• AA1003: Astrophysics 1 - The Structure of the Universe
• AP1043: Electromagnetic Radiation and Quantum Theory
• AP1842: Mechanics
• AP1852: Applied Physics and Linear Systems
• AP1860: Practical Physics 1- Programming and Experimental Physics
• MA1831: Functions, Vectors and Calculus
Year 2
Compulsory modules
• AA2001: Astrophysics 2
• AP2043: Electromagnetism and Waves
• 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
• AA3010: Formation, Structure and Evolution of Stars
• AA3853: Cosmology and Galaxies
• AP3860: Practical Physics 3- Experimental Physics and Problem Solving
• AP3950: Physics/Astronomy Project
Optional modules
• AP3842: Nuclear and Particle Physics
• AP3844: Atomic Physics and Advanced Quantum Mechanics
• AP3845: Electrodynamics, Plasma and Solar Physics
•
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.
What jobs can you get with a degree in astrophysics?
Our BSc (Hons) Astrophysics degree course provides the analytical and mathematical skills which are prized across a range of industries, as well as a strong foundation for a career in research.
Graduates of physics and astrophysics are among the most employable in the world, with the advanced understanding and skills which are prized across a range of technical and business sectors.
As such, you’ll find our graduates working in industry, government research institutes, overseas laboratories and observatories. It can even provide a route into careers in finance, teaching and scientific journalism too.
The course comes with the chance to take a 48-week sandwich placement between your second and third years. You could study abroad with one of our partner universities, or you could work on a project within a research group – in Europe, South Africa or even in the USA with NASA. This offers a vital opportunity to consolidate what you’ve already learned, while gaining the kind of experience that offers a competitive advantage in the busy jobs market.
For those looking ahead to a career in a scientific research, this course can provide the perfect start – by adding a fourth year and achieving an MPhys qualification.
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