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Study Astrophysics, why & how to study
Explore the wonders of the universe with Astrophysics – use our guide to see if the subject and a career as an astrophysicist are for you.
CONTENTS
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What’s Astrophysics?
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What Astrophysics degrees can you study?
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What do you need to get onto an Astrophysics degree?
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What topics does an Astrophysics degree cover?
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How will you be assessed?
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Why study Astrophysics?
- Are scholarships and bursaries available to students studying an Astrophysics degree?
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What do Astrophysics graduates earn?
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What jobs can you get as an Astrophysics graduate?
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What are the postgraduate opportunities?
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Similar subjects to Astrophysics
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Have any questions?
What’s Astrophysics?
Astrophysics is the exploration of the universe and how the laws of physics apply to astronomical objects and phenomena. Choose this subject at university, and you’ll develop your understanding of the physics of astronomy, covering topics from black holes to extrasolar planets.
What Astrophysics degrees can you study?
Undergraduate Astrophysics degrees on offer in the UK include:
Several options include an industry placement year as part of the course.
What do you need to get onto an Astrophysics degree?
Must have
Most undergraduate Astrophysics courses ask for around 120–168 UCAS points. Not every university will base an offer on UCAS points, and some courses may have lower or higher requirements.
- A Levels: AAA–BBB
- BTECs: D*DD–DDM
- Scottish Highers: AAAA–AABB
- International Baccalaureate: 38–30
- Universities will usually ask that you have studied physics and mathematics
Good to have
Studied subjects like:
- Information technology
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Psychology
- Computer science
Experiences that would look good on your application:
- Membership of a physics or astronomy club
- Volunteering or work experience with an astronomy-related organisation
What topics does an Astrophysics degree cover?
Typical modules for courses in this subject include:
- Quantum physics and electromagnetism
- Quantum mechanics and relativity
- Particle and atomic physics
- Big bang cosmology
- Mathematics for physics
- Thermal properties of matter
How will you be assessed?
Depending on your modules, you could be assessed through:
- Lab reports
- Presentations
- Peer assessments
- Critical reviews of scientific literature
- Written exams
- Assessed coursework
Why study Astrophysics?
Career-specific skills:
- Astronomical observation
- Data analysis
- Computer programming
- Experimental techniques
- Mathematical modelling
Transferable skills:
- Time management
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Independent research
- Problem-solving
- Numeracy
- Computer literacy
- Logical thinking
Professional accreditations:
- Degrees may be accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) providing a route towards professional membership
Read our six reasons to study Physics and Astronomy here.
Some universities offer Astrophysics students specific scholarships, bursaries, or grants so it’s worth checking if you are eligible, how to apply and what it covers such as materials, tuition fees and/or living costs.
What do Astrophysics graduates earn?
When starting as a graduate astrophysicist, you can expect an entry-level salary of around £26,000.
The average salary for an astrophysicist in the UK is around £40,000, especially for PhD holders or experienced professionals. Salaries can exceed £60,000 for those in high-level positions.
Read more on what graduates do and earn here.
What jobs can you get as an Astrophysics graduate?
Astrophysics graduates work for industries ranging from finance to renewable energy, for employers such as the European Space Agency, Rolls Royce and Barclays. Examples of roles that graduates go into:
- Research scientist
- Research development leader
- Medical physicist
- Teacher or lecturer
- Data analyst
- Aerospace engineer
What are the postgraduate opportunities?
Examples of postgraduate courses available at universities in the UK:
- Astronomy and Astrophysics MRes
- Astrophysics MSc
- Astrophysics PhD
- Space and Climate Physics MPhil
Similar subjects to Astrophysics
Other subject areas that might appeal to you include:
Have any questions?
Get in touch with our experts by emailing ask@thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk. We’ll be happy to hear from you!
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