Program Overview

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Astrophysics, MPhys Degree Course UK

Overview

The Astrophysics MPhys (Hons) programme offers the opportunity to explore the very fabric of our universe. You’ll develop skills in various scientific methods, while learning how physics applies to stellar objects and systems.

Why Study with Us

• 1st in the UK for academic support (National Student Survey, Physics and Astronomy, 2023)
• 6th in the UK for overall positivity (National Student Survey, Physics and Astronomy, 2023)
• 2nd in the North West for student satisfaction (Complete University Guide, Physics and Astronomy, 2024)
• 5th in the UK for teaching quality (Times Good University Guide, Physics and Astronomy, 2024)

What You’ll Do

• Because the course starts off with the same modules as our Physics and Physics with Astrophysics courses, you can swap courses at the end of your first year.
• Our MPhys route is highly recommended if you’re planning a career in scientific research.
• You’ll become an active part of our vibrant research culture, learning from research-informed teaching, working on projects and even joining funded internships.

Modules

Year 1

• Astrophysics I
• Fundamentals of Physics
• Applied and Computational Physics
• Functions, Vectors and Calculus

Year 2

• Astrophysics II
• Principles of Physics
• Properties of Matter
• Second Year Laboratory
• Ordinary Differential Equations

Year 3

• Formation, Structure and Evolution of Stars
• Cosmology and Galaxies
• Third Year Laboratory
• Physics/Astronomy Project
• UAS Teaching Placement

Year 4

• Galaxies 2
• Planet Formation
• MPhys (Hons) Project

Optional Modules

• Nuclear and Particle Physics
• Atomic Physics and Advanced Quantum Mechanics
• Electrodynamics, Plasma and Solar Physics
• Partial Differential Equations and Integral Transforms
• Plasma and Solar Physics 2
• General Relativity

Entry Requirements

• UCAS: 128 points at A2 including a minimum of AB in Physics and Math - one must be grade A
• BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM and accepted only alongside a minimum of AB in A2 level Physics and Math - one must be grade A
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 128 points from Higher Level subjects including Higher Level 5/6 Maths and Physics
• Pass Access course: 128 points including 15 level 3 credits at D in Maths and 15 level 3 credits at D in Physics
• IELTS: grade 6 with no component lower than 5.5
• GCSEs: 5 at grade C/4 including Maths and English or equivalent

Fees and Funding

• UK: £9,535 per year (full-time), £1,623 for the placement year, £1,587 per 20 credits (part-time)
• International: £17,325 per year (full-time)

Scholarships and Bursaries

• Care Leaver Bursary
• Estranged student support
• Dependants Bursary
• Financial support package

Industry Links

• NASA
• UK South African Large Telescope Consortium

Learning and Assessment

• We use a variety of teaching methods to support you through your studies.
• You’ll learn from an expert team – members of our Jeremiah Horrocks Institute, of which the vast majority hold PhDs.
• As you progress through the course, we’ll monitor your learning through a combination of exams, assignments, log books, reports and presentations.