MPhys (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics (with a year abroad)

Program Overview

The MPhys (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics program at the University of York is a five-year program that provides students with a deep understanding of physics and astrophysics principles. The program emphasizes core and advanced topics in physics, specialized knowledge in astrophysics, and the opportunity to conduct independent research. Students will develop key scientific skills, foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and gain valuable research experience through a year abroad at a prestigious partner institution.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Overview:

The MPhys (Hons) Physics with Astrophysics program at the University of York is a five-year full-time program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of physics and astrophysics principles and enable them to conduct original research. The program is aimed at providing students with a comprehensive education, leading them to pursue advanced research in academia or the industry.

Objectives:

• Develop strong foundations in physics: The program emphasizes core and advanced topics in physics, covering areas such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, statistical physics, nuclear and particle physics, and condensed matter physics.
• Gain specialized knowledge in astrophysics: The program delves into modern astrophysical concepts and techniques, allowing students to study stars, galaxies, cosmology, dark matter, dark energy, and observational astronomy.
• Conduct independent research: The program culminates in a final year research project, allowing students to apply their knowledge and expertise to investigate current research problems and contribute original research findings.
• Develop key scientific skills: Students will learn how to plan, design, and execute scientific investigations using advanced laboratory techniques.
They will hone their data analysis skills, scientific writing abilities, and presentation skills, enabling them to effectively communicate their research findings.
• Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities: Students will engage in theoretical and computational modeling, learning how to analyze and solve complex astrophysical problems encountered in research.

Outline

Year 1:

• Emphasizes core physics principles, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, mathematical methods, and laboratory work.
• Lays the foundation for advanced studies in later years.
• Prepares students for the year abroad by offering a European language module.

Year 2:

• Deepens understanding of fundamental laws and processes in physics.
• Students engage in advanced laboratory work, designing and executing extended experiments.
• Develop observational astronomy skills.
• Prepare for the year abroad with a research skills module.

Year 3:

• Introduces advanced concepts in astrophysics, including stellar structure and evolution, galaxies, cosmology, and interstellar medium.
• Students gain specialized knowledge via optional modules.
• Complete advanced laboratory work in preparation for their final year research project.

Year 4:

• Students spend a year studying at one of the University of York's prestigious partner institutions abroad.
This provides an opportunity to broaden their horizons, gain new perspectives, and acquire valuable research skills.

Year 5:

• Focus on advanced topics in astrophysics through a selection of optional modules.
• Complete a major research project under the supervision of a faculty member, conducting original research on a current astrophysical topic.
• Develop professional skills through modules focused on literature surveys, review writing, planning, and presenting research findings.

UK (home) fees:

£9,250 per year

International and EU fees:

£28,800 per year