Astrophysics (with Foundation Year), MPhys
Program Overview
Astrophysics (with Foundation Year)
MPhys (Hons)
Attendance
Full-time
Campus
Preston Campus
Start
September 2025
Duration
5 years
UCAS Code
F279
Delivery
In-person
Study abroad option
Placement option
Course Description
Our MPhys Astrophysics with Foundation Year provides you with essential training to help find the answer to how our universe came to be. You’ll gain an understanding of how to apply physics to the stars and galaxies which make up our universe, whilst developing skills in scientific methods.
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)
- Access to specialist laboratory facilities for the study of nuclear physics, mechanics, optics, quantum physics, laser physics, spectroscopy, and astrophysics
- Access to our observatory, the Alston Observatory, one of the largest teaching observatories in the UK
- Development of mathematical skills and benefit from a state-of-the-art learning environment for practical analysis, interpretation, and modeling of astronomical data
What You'll Do
- The staff who deliver the courses are members of the School’s Jeremiah Horrocks Institute
- Many of our staff hold PhDs and are active researchers in a number of areas of physics and astrophysics, attracting national and international research reputations
- Access to our observatory, the Alston Observatory, one of the largest teaching observatories in the UK
Modules
Foundation Year
Compulsory Modules
- Foundations of Applied Physics
- Motion, Forces and Force Fields
- The Road to Quantum Mechanics
- Pure Mathematics and Statistics
- Mathematical Methods
Accreditations
- Institute of Physics (IOP)
- Royal Astronomical Society (RAS)
Future Careers
Graduates of physics, astronomy, and astrophysics are amongst the most employable in the world; particularly in technical and business sectors where analytical and mathematical skills are at a premium.
Entry Requirements
- UCAS: 64 points including 32 from A Level or AS Level Maths and/or Physics
- BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science or Engineering MPP is accepted alongside GCSE Maths at grade A/7, AS Maths or alternative proof of mathematical ability on a case-by-case basis
- Pass Access Course: 64 points including 15 credits at level 3 in each of Maths and Physics
- International Baccalaureate Diploma: Pass including 64 points from Higher Level subjects and Higher Level Maths and Physics
- T Level: P (D or E) in Science or Engineering is accepted alongside GCSE Maths at grade A/7, AS Maths or alternative proof of Mathematical ability on a case-by-case basis
- IELTS: grade 6.0 with no component lower than 5.5
- GCSEs: 5 at Grade C/4
Fees and Funding
2025/26
- UK: £9,535 for the first year
- International: £17,250 for the first year
Additional Costs
As part of your course, there may be additional costs to consider that are not included in your tuition fees. Most of these will be optional, but some courses have essential additional costs.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We offer many scholarships, bursaries, and funds to support you during your studies.
Learning and Assessment
During your MPhys (Hons) Astrophysics course, you’ll learn through a variety of methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars, problem-solving classes, laboratory work, observatory experiments, individual project work, and group work. Small class sizes ensure you get individual attention.
The course is assessed by a combination of written examinations, assignments, laboratory logbooks and reports, project reports, and presentations.
Further Information
Progression onto our MPhys programmes is possible from any of the BSc (Hons) programmes in Physics and Astrophysics, subject to suitable academic performance. An MPhys degree is a highly employable qualification.
