Program Overview

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Physics with Planetary and Space Physics

Key Facts

• UCAS Tariff: 128 - 120
• Course duration: 4 years
• Available for September start 2025

Course Overview

Physics with Planetary and Space Physics, at Aberystwyth University, provides you with a fundamental core of Physics alongside a detailed exploration of the Physics of the Solar System and an overview of Modern Astronomical Science.

The nucleus of mainstream Physics, alongside our supportive learning environment, ensures flexibility in further study or employment after graduation, and provides the necessary background for the specialist modules.

Modules

Year 1

• Algebra and Differential Equations *
• Calculus *
• Dynamics, Waves and Heat *
• Electricity, Magnetism and Matter *
• Further Algebra and Calculus *
• Laboratory Techniques for Experimental Physicists and Engineers (20 Credits) *
• Laboratory Techniques for Experimental Physicists and Engineers (30 Credits) *
• Modern Physics
• Physics Career Planning and Skills Development *

Year 2

• Electricity and Magnetism *
• Mathematical Physics *
• Numerical Techniques for Physicists
• Optics
• Practical Research Skills *
• Principles of Quantum Mechanics
• Stars and Planets
• Thermodynamics

Year 3

• Astrophysics I: Physics of the Sun
• Concepts in Condensed Matter Physics
• Particles, Quanta and Fields
• Physics of Planetary Atmospheres
• Project (40 Credits)

Year 4

• Advanced Quantum Physics
• Advanced Research Topics
• Advanced Skills in Physics
• Electromagnetic Theory
• Major Project *

Careers

Our graduates from this course have been successful in obtaining employment within the space industry.

Other graduates from the Physics department have discovered the following pathways:

• medical physics
• radiation protection
• research science
• systems development
• product development
• technical writing
• meteorology

Employability is embedded across all of our teaching and ethics. We instil these skills to our students:

• research and data analysis skills
• enhanced mathematical and computational skills
• effective problem-solving and creative thinking skills
• the ability to work independently
• time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines
• the ability to express ideas and communicate information in a clear and structured manner, in both written and oral form
• self-motivation and self-reliance
• team-working, with the ability to discuss concepts in groups, accommodating different ideas and reaching agreement

Teaching & Learning

We teach our students through lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, practicals, individual and group-based project work.

We assess our students through coursework, presentations, lab reports, lab diaries and examinations.

Student Testimonials

I love Physics with Planetary and Space Physics. The structure of the years is perfectly designed to give you a feel for all branches of physics rather than a more in-depth view of one particular branch. The modules themselves are pretty awesome, studying planetary atmospheres to the solar interior, from the structure of the atom all the way to the structure of the galaxies. Possibly the best thing is the opportunity to study at Svalbard, Norway and do some real research work with the equipment they have at their disposal. James Parker

It is really fascinating, as not only do you look at the cosmos but you also get down to the real nitty-gritty of what makes a solar system tick - the planets. Doing PSP gives you a great range of information from how the Sun works, to the possibility of life on other worlds and how we might discover them! All in all it's a pretty fantastic course - comparing the science of this world to that of others is real front-line exploration! Timothy Edward Andrew Powell

Typical Entry Requirements

• UCAS Tariff: 128 - 120
• A Levels: ABB-BBB with B in Physics and B in Mathematics
• GCSE requirements (minimum grade C/4): English or Welsh and Mathematics
• BTEC National Diploma: DDM-DMM with specified subject and B in A level Mathematics
• International Baccalaureate: 32-30 points overall with 5 points in Physics and 5 points in Mathematics at Higher Level
• European Baccalaureate: 75% overall with 7 Physics and Mathematics

English Language Requirements

See our Undergraduate English Language Requirements for this course. Pre-sessional English Programmes are also available for students who do not meet our English Language Requirements.

Country Specific Entry Requirements

International students whose qualification is not listed on this page, can check our Country Specific Entry Requirements for further information.

The University welcomes undergraduate applications from students studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma or T-level qualifications, provided that relevant subject content and learning outcomes are met. We are not able to accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas or T-levels as a general qualification for every undergraduate degree course.
Our inclusive admissions policy values breadth as well as depth of study. Applicants are selected on their own individual merits and offers can vary. If you would like to check the eligibility of your qualifications before submitting an application, please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for advice and guidance.