Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics

Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics
The space sector is growing rapidly, with more than 1,800 companies contributing over £18billion to the UK economy alone. These include trailblazers in technology, biology, weather and space exploration.

If you want to be part of this exciting industry, our specialist BSc gives you the skills to succeed - as well as a firm grounding in core physics and astrophysics knowledge.

This course is designed for students who look to the stars. You’ll learn about spacecraft design, star formation and astrobiology, and undertake hands-on challenges such as planning a human spaceflight mission or evaluating locations for a UK spaceport. We believe in giving you the chance to apply what you learn, with group and individual projects set by academics and industry.

You’ll get access to state-of-the-art equipment such as the Beacon Observatory, receive training in astronomical data analysis through a specialist module, and work with real datasets. You’ll also develop your teamwork and presentation skills throughout the course, working with world-class academics who will guide you and support you in preparing for careers and interviews.

You’ll also receive the grounding you need in core maths and physics concepts, from statistics to quantum mechanics. The problem-solving skills you will develop will prepare you for a variety of careers from research to engineering, medical physics, or teaching.

Your next step could be a giant leap.

Foundation Year

This course is designed for science students who do not meet the requirements for direct entry to Stage 1 of our degree courses. It is also an excellent conversion course for applicants who have shown academic ability in non-science subjects. We consider applicants without traditional academic qualifications who have relevant professional experience.

Year in Industry

Adding a professional placement year to your degree allows you to gain valuable work experience. Your placement can take place in the UK or abroad and many pay a salary.

Year Abroad

You'll have the opportunity to spend your third year studying abroad at one of our partner institutions. This provides a wealth of personal and professional benefits. You'll experience a different culture, establish international contacts, grow in self-confidence and enhance your employability.

Accreditation
This course is fully accredited by the Institute of Physics.

Your future
You’ll graduate with an excellent grounding in scientific knowledge and extensive laboratory experience, as well as a toolbox of transferable skills highly sought after by employers. These include excellent communication and problem-solving skills; analytical thinking; effective time management; and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Our graduates have gone on to work for employers such as:

• Airbus

• The Met Office

• Defence Engineering and Science Group (MoD)

• BAE

Year 1

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Year 1 compulsory modules currently include the following:

• Mathematics I - Through the calculus component, you will delve into the fundamental principles of differentiation and integration, emphasising their relevance in physics applications. This foundation will pave the way for mastering key techniques directly applicable to physics problems and scenarios. Additionally, you will be introduced to scientific programming in Python, expanding your horizons in the application of computer and IT packages used to build mathematical models of physical behaviour.

• Introduction to Optics, Astronomy and Relativity - You’ll study light focussing on the key principles of geometrical optics, and how they allow us to design and understand instruments including astronomical telescopes. This will lead into an exploration of important topics in modern astronomy, such as determining distances and observational properties of stars, beginning with our own solar system and extending to objects at the very limits of the observable universe.

• Mathematics II - Building on your knowledge developed through ‘Mathematics I’ you’ll explore key mathematical techniques involving multiple independent variables. These include the topics of differential equations, multivariate calculus, non-Cartesian coordinates, and vector calculus that are needed for further study in physics.

• Laboratory and Programming Skills - By completing this module, you’ll become a competent user of experimental, computational and communication tools, understanding the inherent uncertainties of empirical science and what this means in relation to scientific findings, and knowing the standards expected of you in reporting scientific results, in readiness for more advanced laboratory work.

• Mechanics - Explore concepts such as momentum, energy, rotational motion, angular momentum, and gravitational forces, and gain an appreciation of the mathematical description of harmonic oscillations and learn how to apply them to real-world scenarios. In addition to these core topics, you’ll cover a range of related subjects essential for understanding key concepts in physics and how they underpin natural phenomena. Through delving into associated areas such as static equilibrium, elastic properties of objects, and fluid mechanics, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the physical world and make connections between seemingly disparate phenomena.

• Introduction to Waves, Fields and the Quantum World - You’ll explore waves, fields and the quantum world through two parts, giving you the chance to make rapid progress and get the knowledge you need for further investigation and exploration.

For more detailed information about these modules, please visit our website.

Year 2

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Year 2 compulsory modules currently include the following:

• Mathematical Techniques for Physical Sciences - Building on a strong mathematical foundation for further study and research, the skills you develop will not only benefit you academically but also enhance your employability, preparing you for technical roles in research, engineering, data analysis, and beyond, where rigorous mathematical reasoning and problem-solving abilities are highly valued by employers.

• Physics Group Laboratory Project - Modern science is a collaborative effort, requiring physicists to work in teams of varying sizes, and to communicate their results to a wide range of audiences. We ensure you will develop your ability to conduct complex investigations as a team, and to disseminate your outcomes.

• Quantum and Atomic Physics - This module introduces you to critical terminology and mathematical concepts fundamental to quantum mechanics, such as eigenstates, eigenvalues, and expectation values. You will explore the Schrödinger equation through various important systems, including two-state systems, particles in simple potentials, and the simple harmonic oscillator. You will also learn how to use the Schrödinger equation in different coordinate systems to understand the concept of angular momentum in quantum mechanics.

• Electromagnetism and Relativity - Electromagnetism and Relativity are two fundamental classical theories in Physics. You'll be introduced to a range of important laws and principles that lay the foundation for studies in these fields. You'll develop an understanding of magnetic and electric fields and how to apply Maxwell’s laws to describe all phenomena involving electromagnetic waves (from radio waves to visible light, X-rays and gamma rays).

• Observational Astronomy and Exoplanets - Build on the introduction to astronomy taught in earlier stages. You will enhance your knowledge of astrophysics through the study of the theory, formalism and fundamental principles, developing a rigorous grounding in observational, computational and theoretical aspects of astrophysics.

• Spacecraft Design and Operations - How can we use space to benefit our society on Earth and to explore our solar system and beyond? On this module you'll discuss the design and operations of spacecraft, including satellites, to explore answers to these questions. We'll introduce the harsh environment of space, the hazards posed to spacecraft, and how we design spacecraft to overcome these challenges. You'll also develop your understanding of the major subsystems of a spacecraft through the study of the theory, formalism and fundamental principles, as well as the framework to understand spacecraft trajectories and orbits.

For more detailed information about these modules, please visit our website.

Year in Industry (BSc courses)

Year in Industry

After successfully completing stage 1 at your first attempt, with an average pass mark of at least 60%, you have the opportunity to spend a year in industry between your second and final years of study, with support and advice from the University.

Please note that acceptance onto the course is not a guarantee of a placement. The responsibility of finding a placement is on the student, with help and support from the department. If you cannot find a placement, you will be required to change your registration for the equivalent BSc programme without the Year in Industry option.

Year Abroad (MPhys courses)

Go Abroad

Students on a four-year degree programme spend a year between Stages 2 and 4 at one of our partner universities in Canada, Hong Kong or the USA. For a full list, please see Go Abroad. Places are subject to availability.

You are expected to adhere to any academic progression requirements in Stages 1 and 2 to proceed to the Year Abroad. If the requirement is not met, you will revert to the equivalent three-year programme.

Going abroad as part of your degree is an amazing experience and a chance to develop personally, academically and professionally. You experience a different culture, gain a new academic perspective, establish international contacts and enhance your employability.

Year 3

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Year 3 compulsory modules currently include the following:

• Modern Optics and Photonics - This module provides you with an immersive experience, allowing you to discover fundamental and contemporary concepts that shape our understanding of how light interacts with matter. You'll explore the practical applications of optics and photonics in various fields, such as telecommunications, medicine, manufacturing, and computing, giving you experience aligned with a range of potential careers.

• Thermal and Statistical Physics - Explore the classic theory of thermodynamics and how the thermal properties of physical objects can be described in terms of their microscopic properties through the application of statistical mechanics. You'll learn the three laws of thermodynamics and how to use them to understand physical phenomena, such as the conversion of heat into work in an engine or the cooling cycle in a refrigerator.

• Stars, Galaxies and the Universe - Building on your studies in observational astronomy, this module provides a balanced and rigorous course in astrophysics for BSc students. You'll develop and enhance your knowledge of astrophysics through the study of the theory, formalism, and fundamental principles.

• The Solar System - If you want to explore beyond earth, your the first step is our solar system. You'll get to grips with our closest neighbors, the composition of the Sun and planets will be placed in the context of the current understanding of the evolution of the Solar System. You'll also study solar terrestrial physics, learning how interactions between the Sun and Earth affect life on our planet. You will then move on to look at the terrestrial planets and the processes that have shaped them, learning first about the Earth before considering Mars, Mercury and Venus.

• Condensed Matter Physics - Explore the constituents of matter and how the structured arrangement of atoms in a solid gives rise to their properties.

• Data Analysis and Investigation in Astronomy and Planetary Sciences - This module provides a practical underpinning to the theoretical astrophysics work in other modules. Working through the experiments provided, using authentic data, will leave you with a richer appreciation and understanding of this subject matter, equipping you with the skills to succeed as working astronomers that are, in addition, transferable to many other professional disciplines.

For more detailed information about these modules, please visit our website.

Year 4 (MPhys year)

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Year 4 compulsory modules currently include the following:

• MPhys Research Project - The MPhys Research Project offers a transformative capstone experience in physics research. You'll undertake individual, open-ended projects tailored to your specialisation and passions, aligning with ongoing departmental research.

• Astrobiology and Astrochemistry - This advanced specialist module introduces you to the chemical and geological nature of astronomical and planetary science studies. Explore the role of chemical processes in the evolution of the early universe and in star and planet formation. You'll review our detection of molecules by state-of-the-art telescopes both ground and space based and our current understanding of the formation of complex molecules in the Interstellar Medium (ISM). Discuss meteorites, how to analyse them and what such studies can tell us about the evolution of our solar system. We'll then examine the new field of astrobiology and how it seeks to answer to one of the greatest questions of modern science; ‘How did life being on Earth?’ and ‘Has life evolved elsewhere?’

• Space Exploration: The 21st Century Space Industry - This advanced specialist module focuses on the exploitation of space and its commercialisation. The range of topics covered includes Flight Operations, Propulsion, Attitude Control, Impact Damage, Human Spaceflight, Space Medicine, and the International Space Station.

• Star Formation and Galactic Structure - Gain an understanding of the physics of star formation and galactic structures with this advanced specialised research led module. The Interstellar Medium is examined, focusing on its properties and role in low and high mass star formation, Galactic structure and the role of the spiral arms. This will be interspersed with discussion sessions focused on modern techniques such as interferometry and instrumentation relevant to the field, including the Square Kilometer Array, Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, James Webb Space Telescope, Extremely Large Telescope and the EUCLID cosmological survey mission.

For more detailed information about these modules, please visit our website.

Foundation Year

The following modules are what students typically study, but this may change year to year in response to new developments and innovations.

Foundation Year compulsory modules currently include the following:

• Foundation Skills for Engineering, Mathematics and Physics - Your preparation for an engineering, mathematics or physics degree starts here. You will develop critical thinking and problem solving skills required to underpin your studies as well as beginning to gain knowledge to enable you to start using measurement instruments, understand forces, and fundamental electric circuits. Your ability to work with results including measurement errors as well as report writing skills will also be developed to support you throughout the degree and your professional life.

• Foundation Algebra and Geometry - A solid grasp of algebra and geometry is a fundamental requirement for advanced study in any STEM subject. In this module, you will study foundational algebra and coordinate geometry required for Stage 1 entry into your chosen degree. You will see why they are so vital to your subject area. In addition you will learn how to reason with logarithms, exponentials and gain skills in solving equations.

• Foundation Statistics and Programming to Explore Your Subject - You’ll learn the basics of probability, statistics, and hypothesis testing necessary for advanced study. In particular, you’ll gain skills in using measures of central tendency such as the mean, median, and mode, and measures of dispersion such as the range, variance, and standard deviation. You’ll learn how to use quartiles and percentiles, and to interpret and create histograms, box plots, and other graphical representations of data. In probability theory you’ll gain an understanding of the core probability rules, see how to use conditional probability, and become familiar with the binomial and normal distributions, expectation, and variance. You’ll also learn how to use basic programming techniques to help solve problems in statistics.

• Foundation Mechanics and Materials - Learn about the interplay of the core concepts physicists and engineers use to describe the behaviour of objects in the world around us. Establish the relevant quantities, units and dimensions giving you the tools to understand mechanics and materials. Learn about characterising the motion of objects through distance, velocity and acceleration with time graphs. You will examine the behaviours of forces through Newtons' Laws and the relationship between those forces and work, power and energy. You will learn about gravity as a force field, as well as circular and rotational motion. Physical bodies are usually solids, but liquids and gases also obey the laws of mechanics. The property of temperature provides an explanation for the different phases of matter.

• Foundation Functions and Calculus - In this module, you will develop your knowledge of mathematical functions to give you a solid foundation with which to grasp calculus and other advanced topics. You will then move on to study differential calculus and its applications – allowing you to quantify and model rates of change mathematically and consistently and find the gradient of any curve – followed by integral calculus and differential equations – allowing you to find anti-derivatives and model real-life situations.

• Foundation Waves, Vibrations and Electromagnetics - To prepare you for future study in your chosen degree, you will learn to analyse physical waves, vibrations, alternating current and electromagnetic waves. You will also gain awareness of the principles of electrostatics and magnetism, as well as being introduced to atomic physics.

For more detailed information about these modules, please visit our website.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• Physics, Institute of