Program Overview

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Astrophysics (F511) with an Integrated Masters at Aberystwyth University

Course Overview

Astrophysics (F511) with an Integrated Masters at Aberystwyth University incorporates the broad disciplines of Astronomy, including: Cosmology and Galactic Astronomy, the Solar System, Gas Giants and Terrestrial Worlds, Red Giants, White Dwarfs, Neutron Stars, Quasars and more.

This allows you to cover a broad area of learning and then specialise later in your career. With foundations in the key areas of Physics and Astronomy, taught in a supportive environment, you will also develop the transferable skills required by employers, in this discipline, for education, business and industry.

Modules

Year 1

• Algebra and Differential Equations *
• Astronomy
• 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
• Sensors, Electronics & Instrumentation
• Stars and Planets
• Thermodynamics

Year 3

• Astrophysics I: Physics of the Sun
• Astrophysics II: Galaxies, General Relativity and Cosmology
• Concepts in Condensed Matter Physics
• Particles, Quanta and Fields
• Project (40 Credits)

Year 4

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

Careers

Our graduates have discovered career paths in:

• medical physics
• radiation protection
• research science

Other graduates from our department have sought careers in:

• systems development
• product development
• technical publishing
• meteorology

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

• research and data analysis skills
• enhanced mathematical and computational skills
• effective problem-solving and creative thinking skills
• ability to work independently
• time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines
• 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 Astrophysics because the universe is a wondrous feat of reality, arising from the physical law of nature. A complex mixture of energy, mass, gravity, electric and magnetic fields gives rise to life and to the beautiful galaxies that we see in the night sky. Who wouldn't want to study that? Learning about the big picture of the universe instead of being confined to trivial problems in everyday life is character-building and a worthwhile venture. Geoffrey Knott

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 Physics and B in Mathematics
• International Baccalaureate: 32-30 points overall with 6 points in Mathematics and Physics at Higher Level
• European Baccalaureate: 75% overall with 7 in 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.