Study Astrophysics, why & how to study
Explore the wonders of the universe with Astrophysics. Use our guide to see if the subject area, and a career as an astrophysicist, are for you.
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CONTENTS
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What鈥檚 Astrophysics?
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What Astrophysics degrees can you study?
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What do you need to get onto an Astrophysics degree?
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What topics does an Astrophysics degree cover?
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How will you be assessed?
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Why study Astrophysics?
- Are scholarships and bursaries available to students studying an Astrophysics degree?
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What do Astrophysics graduates earn?
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What jobs can you get as an Astrophysics graduate?
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What are the postgraduate opportunities?
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Similar subjects to Astrophysics
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Have any questions?
What鈥檚 Astrophysics?
Astrophysics is the exploration of the universe. It鈥檚 all about how the laws of physics apply to astronomical objects and phenomena.
Study this subject, and you鈥檒l develop your understanding of the physics of astronomy. You鈥檒l cover topics like black holes, extrasolar planets, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and much more.
Take a look at the university league table for Physics and Astromony.
What Astrophysics degrees can you study?
Undergraduate Astrophysics degrees on offer in the UK include:
Astrophysics BSc/MSci/MPhys
You can study undergraduate Astrophysics and gain a BSc (Bachelor of Science) degree. Many universities offer an integrated master鈥檚 year as an addition to the course. You can earn an MSci (Master of Science) or an MPhys (Master of Physics).
Search for Astrophysics courses.
Physics with Astrophysics BSc/MSci/MPhys
This course will give you a solid foundation in both subject areas, and how the two overlap. You鈥檒l learn how to apply the principles of Physics to Astrophysics, helping you understand the workings of celestial phenomena.
Find Physics with Astrophysics courses.
Other options
Common courses include:
- Physics with Nuclear Astrophysics
- Physics, Astrophysics and Cosmology
Many universities will offer an industry placement or research project as part of the course. January starts are often available, as well as integrated foundation years and study abroad opportunities.
What do you need to get onto an Astrophysics degree?
Must have
Most undergraduate Astrophysics courses ask for around 120鈥�168 UCAS points. Not every university will base an offer on UCAS points. Some courses may have lower or higher requirements.
- A Levels: AAA鈥揃BB
- BTECs: D*DD鈥揇DM
- Scottish Highers: AAAA鈥揂ABB
- International Baccalaureate: 38鈥�30
- Universities will usually ask that you have studied physics and mathematics
Good to have
Studied subjects like:
- Information technology
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Psychology
- Computer science
Experiences that would look good on your application:
- Membership of a physics or astronomy club
- Volunteering or work experience with an astronomy-related organisation
What topics does an Astrophysics degree cover?
Typical modules for courses in this subject include:
- Quantum physics and electromagnetism
- Quantum mechanics and relativity
- Particle and atomic physics
- Big bang cosmology
- Mathematics for physics
- Thermal properties of matter
How will you be assessed?
Depending on your modules, you could be assessed through:
- Lab reports
- Presentations
- Peer assessments
- Critical reviews of scientific literature
- Written exams
- Assessed coursework
Why study Astrophysics?
Career-specific skills:
- Astronomical observation
- Data analysis
- Computer programming
- Experimental techniques
- Mathematical modelling
Transferable skills:
- Time management
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Independent research
- Problem-solving
- Numeracy
- Computer literacy
- Logical thinking
Professional accreditation:
Degrees may be accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP), which helps you towards professional membership.
Read reasons to study Physics and Astronomy.
Some universities offer Astrophysics students specific scholarships, bursaries, or grants. It鈥檚 worth checking if you are eligible, how to apply and what it covers such as materials, tuition fees and/or living costs.
What do Astrophysics graduates earn?
When starting as a graduate astrophysicist, you can expect an entry-level salary of around £26,000.
The average salary for an astrophysicist in the UK is around £40,000, especially for PhD holders or experienced professionals. Salaries can exceed £60,000 for those in high-level positions.
Read more on .
What jobs can you get as an Astrophysics graduate?
Astrophysics graduates work for industries ranging from finance to renewable energy. Potential employers include the European Space Agency, Rolls-Royce and Barclays. Examples of roles that graduates go into:
- Research scientist
- Research development leader
- Medical physicist
- Teacher or lecturer
- Data analyst
- Aerospace engineer
What are the postgraduate opportunities?
Examples of postgraduate courses available at universities in the UK:
- Astronomy and Astrophysics MRes
- Astrophysics MSc
- Astrophysics PhD
- Space and Climate Physics MPhil
Similar subjects to Astrophysics
Other subject areas that might appeal to you include:
Search undergraduate Astrophysics courses now!
Have any questions?
Get in touch with our experts by emailing ask@thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk. We鈥檒l be happy to hear from you!
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