Program Overview

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PhD Astronomy and Astrophysics / Overview

Degree Awarded

PhD

Duration

3 to 4 years (some funding schemes are for 3.5 years)

Entry Requirements

• The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent)
• OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent)
• Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered

Programme Options

| Full-time | Part-time | Full-time distance learning | Part-time distance learning
---|---|---|---|---
PhD | Y | Y | N | N

Programme Description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Manchester is one of the largest and most active physics departments in the UK. We have a long tradition of excellence in both teaching and research, and have interests in most areas of contemporary research.

Research in the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics covers a wide range of fields in astronomy, astrophysics, and technology development. Operating the 76-m Lovell telescope and e-Merlin National Facility at the Jodrell Bank Observatory, and hosting the UK ALMA regional centre, as well as strong links with the Square Kilometre Array telescope, the JBCA has extensive expertise in observational radio and mm observational astronomy. We are engaged in world-leading research activities in observational, theoretical, and experimental projects within the fields of cosmology, pulsar astronomy, time-domain astrophysics, galactic and stellar astrophysics, solar physics, and instrument development.

The postgraduate research environment is well-funded and world-class as demonstrated by our ranking in REF2021. Supervision is provided by academic staff, who are leaders in their fields, with independent pastoral back-up. Transferable skills training is available, and there are some school teaching opportunities.

Fees

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2025, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time)
  • UK students (per annum): Band A - £5,006.00; Band B - £7,400; Band C - £10,500; Band D - £15,200; Band E - £25,700
  • International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A - £29,400; Band B - £31,500; Band C - £37,300; Band D - £45,200; Band E - £59,900
• PhD (part-time)
  • UK students (per annum): Band A - £2,503.00; Band B - £3,700; Band C - £5,250; Band D - £7,600; Band E - £12,850
  • International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A - £14,700; Band B - £15,750; Band C - £18,650; Band D - £22,600; Band E - £29,950

Scholarships/Sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships, and awards at university, faculty, and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

• Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
  • Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all

School/Faculty Overview

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research-led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality. Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester.

Programmes in Related Subject Areas

• Physics and Astronomy
• Astronomy and Astrophysics

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high-quality education that prepares them for the future, and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website.