MSci Astrophysics
Entry requirements
A level: A*AA (A*A in Mathematics and Physics required (in any order).) IB: 39 points (A total of 19 points in three higher level subjects including grade 7 and grade 6 in Mathematics and Physics, in any order, with no higher level score below 5. The programme will accept either ‘Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation’ at higher level.)
About this course
MSci in Astrophysics, a physics with astrophysics degree focusing on the properties and evolution of the universe. Core topics include Statistics, Mathematical Modelling, and Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning. This four-year programme extends the BSc curriculum with advanced study options and an independent research project. The first year covers core foundations through Atoms, Stars and the Universe, Waves, Optics and Acoustics, Classical Mechanics, and Mathematics for Physicists. The second year develops technical skills via Astrophysical Processes: Nebulae to Stars, Planetary Science, Practical Astrophysics and Computing, and Electricity and Magnetism, alongside optional choices such as Environmental Physics. The third year advances into specialized topics including The Physics of Stars, Physical Cosmology, Interstellar Physics, and Astronomical Spectroscopy, with further options like Fluid Mechanics and Nuclear and Particle Physics. The final fourth year culminates in a substantial Physics and Astrophysics project, complemented by advanced optional modules such as Cosmology, Galaxy Dynamics, Formation and Evolution, and Physics of Exoplanets.
Modules
- Atoms, Stars and the Universe
- Waves, Optics and Acoustics
- Thermal Physics and the Properties of Matter
- Classical Mechanics
- Introductory Practical and Computational Astrophysics
- Mathematics for Physicists
- Astrophysical Processes: Nebulae to Stars
- Planetary Science
- Practical Astrophysics and Computing
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Quantum Physics
- Statistical Physics of Matter
- Mathematical Methods III
- Mathematics for Physics and Astronomy
- Environmental Physics
- Astrophysics Group Project
- The Physics of Stars
- Physical Cosmology
- Quantum Mechanics
- Practical Astronomy 1 - Technique
- Interstellar Physics
- Astronomical Spectroscopy
- Ocean Physics and Climate Change
- Fluid Mechanics
- Mathematics For General Relativity
- Electromagnetic Theory
- Physics Education
- Nuclear and Particle Physics
- Theory of Dynamical Systems
- Climate and Energy
- Lasers and Modern Optics
- Practical Machine Learning for Physicists
- Physics and Astrophysics project
- Cosmology
- Galaxy Dynamics, Formation and Evolution
- Advanced Physical Cosmology
- Physics of Exoplanets
- Advanced Quantum Theory
- Particle Physics
- Physical Models of Life
- Statistical Analysis of Data
- Space Plasma and Magnetospheric Physics (SS109)
- Planetary Atmospheres (SS4)