A levels, AAA including Physics and Maths. This must include a pass in all practical components (where offered).
Cambridge Pre-U, D3, D3, D3 including Physics and Maths
European Baccalaureate, 85% overall, with 85% in Physics and Maths
International Baccalaureate, 36 points overall, including 6 in Mathematics and Physics at Higher Level
If English isn't your first language you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. We accept the following qualifications:
IELTS (Academic and Indicator), 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component
C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency, 176, with a minimum of 169 in each component
Duolingo, 110 overall, with a minimum of 100 in each component
GCSE/IGCSE/O level English Language (as a first or second language), Grade C
LanguageCert International ESOL SELT, B2 Communicator High Pass with a minimum score of 33/50 in each component
PTE Academic, 61, with a minimum of 55 in each component
TOEFL, 87 overall, with a minimum of 21 in each component
Trinity ISE III, Merit in all components
Astrophysicists look to the skies to discover more about the nature of our Universe.
From the nuclear reactions that power our sun to the mysteries of dark matter, you'll study the great challenges of cosmology in topics aligned with our active research.
To explore the cosmos you'll need grounding in many disciplines of physics, from optics to electromagnetism, quantum physics to classical mechanics. You'll gain foundational understanding of fundamental physics, scientific principles and methods. You'll learn key skills for analysing real-life problems, write scientific reports to industry standards, communicate complex concepts, and solve mind-bending astronomical puzzles.
More Info: Click here
Year 1
Year 1 emphasises core material to consolidate your existing knowledge and prepare you for more advanced study. You'll study a range of key modules, and put your learning into practice in the lab throughout the year.
Core modules
You will take core modules which may include:
Electromagnetism, Waves and Optics
Introduction to Thermal and Quantum Physics
Mathematics I
Newtonian and Relativistic Mechanics
Experimental Laboratory for Astrophysics I
Mapping the Universe (with Professional Skills)
Year 2
In Year 2 you'll deepen your understanding of fundamental laws, processes and techniques. Advanced laboratory work will enable you to plan and execute extended experiments. You'll learn to approach problems creatively and develop your observational astronomy skills.
Core modules
You will take core modules which may include:
Astrophysical Technologies, Planetary Science (with Professional Skills)
Electromagnetism and Optics
Mathematics II
Quantum Physics II
Thermodynamics and Solid State I
Experimental Laboratory for Astrophysics II
Year 3
Year 3 introduces some advanced concepts, building on the expertise you've developed. Option modules give you the chance to delve deeper into your favourite topic, or discover a new area of advanced physics.
You'll complete advanced laboratory work which will include preparation for your research project in the final year.
Core modules
You will take core modules which may include:
Galaxies and the Interstellar Medium and Cosmology
Statistical Mechanics and Solid State II
Quantum Physics III
Advanced Astrophysics Laboratory
Option modules
You will choose from a selection of option modules, examples of which may include:
Advanced Theoretical Techniques
Atomic Physics and Lasers
Introduction to Plasma Science and Technology
Introduction to Quantum Computing
Magnetic Materials and Technology
Medical Physics
Modern Optics
Nanoscale
Particle Physics
Relativity
The Physics of Stars
Year 4
The fourth year consists of a number of advanced optional modules, providing you with the opportunity to specialise further. You'll apply the core knowledge you've developed over the previous years to topics aligned with our internationally-recognised research groups.
You'll undertake a major research project under the supervision of an academic member of staff with expertise in the area you choose to focus on. You'll conduct original research to reach new conclusions and, at the highest levels, contribute to our understanding of the Universe.
Core module
MPhys Project
Our students widely acknowledge the MPhys project as one of the most satisfying and rewarding parts of the course. You'll undertake independent research to investigate a current problem in the field, or bring new perspectives to a familiar topic. You may need to design, build and evaluate equipment for a specific experimental purpose.
Recent projects have included:
Asteroseismology
Astrophysical methanol masers
Classifying stellar pulsations from space
Shell-Model study of exotic nuclei
Type-1a supernova explosions
Tuning the Stars to Beta Lep
You'll be supported by a professional skills module to hone your research techniques. You'll undertake a literature survey, write a review essay, develop a project plan and give oral and poster presentations in an end-of-year conference.
Option modules
You will choose from a selection of option modules, examples of which may include:
Advanced Plasma Physics
From Subatomic Physics to Astrophysics
Advanced High Performance Computing
Advanced Quantum Mechanics
Biophysics
Further Quantum Mechanics
High Performance Computing
Laser and Atom-light Interactions
Nanomaterials: from Graphene to Spintronics
Physics and Applications of Semiconductor Devices
Our graduates are working as:
Accelerator Physicist, Science and Technology Council
Engineer, BAE Systems
Scientist, The Home Office
Financial Coordinator, De Vere
IT Analyst and Consultant, Virgin money
Teacher
Electrical Engineer, Jaguar Land Rover
Environmental Modeller, E.ON
Accountant, John Lewis
Insurance - Single: 300 (£) per year