Program Overview

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Physics with Planetary and Space Physics

Key Facts

• UCAS Tariff: 120 - 112
• Course duration: 3 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)

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 Practitioner
• 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 instil these skills to 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
• Teamworking, 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.

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.

Typical Entry Requirements

• UCAS Tariff: 120 - 112
• A Levels: BBB-BBC to include B in Physics and B in Mathematics
• GCSE requirements (minimum grade C/4): English or Welsh and Mathematics
• BTEC National Diploma: DDM-DMM with B in A level Physics and B in Mathematics
• International Baccalaureate: 30-28 with 5 points in Physics and Mathematics at Higher Level
• European Baccalaureate: 75%-65% 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.