Astrophysics with a Foundation Year

Join us on a journey to unlock the mysteries of the Universe.

Our Astrophysics BSc (Hons) combines analytical reasoning, mathematical problem‑solving, and scientific curiosity to explore how the universe works, from the subatomic quantum world to the largest cosmic structures.

We are proud of our cutting‑edge research environment, where world‑leading experts work across a broad spectrum of physics, including semiconductors, nanophysics, lasers, antimatter, quantum fields, and the early universe. This research directly informs our teaching and provides an inspiring environment for your studies.

You will go well beyond lectures, gaining hands‑on experience using telescopes and detectors, and working with real astronomical data. Our programmes develop a strong foundation in physics while equipping you with analytical, computational, and observational skills valued across many scientific and technical sectors.

A highlight of our degree is the opportunity to undertake advanced research projects, often at the forefront of physics, supervised by internationally recognised academics. Our extensive collaborations with major facilities, including CERN, provide exciting opportunities for student projects, internships, and research experience.

Our programme aims to develop well‑rounded astrophysicists with the scientific expertise, critical thinking, communication skills, and adaptability needed to thrive in an ever‑evolving world of scientific discovery.

Studying Astrophysics at Swansea offers a distinctive experience, including:

• The option to join an international field trip to a major astronomical research facility, where you can collect and analyse your own data.

• Access to world class robotic telescopes across the globe, allowing you to carry out real-time astronomical observations.

• A dedicated student and staff space, the Event Horizon, overlooking Swansea Bay. An ideal environment for study, collaboration, and community.

• A vibrant academic and social community supported by the Physics Department and the Swansea University Physics Society (PhySoc), with regular debates, distinguished lectures, and social events.

• Elected student representatives for each year group and for PhySoc to ensure every student voice is heard through regular meetings with academic leads.

• Teaching informed by world leading research groups in Particle Physics and Cosmology Theory, Applied Materials, and the ALPHA antimatter collaboration, with close links to CERN. Students have the opportunity to apply for summer internships at CERN and carry out final year projects with any of our major research groups.

• Opportunities to collaborate with our £50m Centre for Integrated Semiconductor Materials (CISM) in your final year project, offering engagement with local semiconductor industries.

The optional Foundation Year for this programme can give you an exciting introduction to higher education, setting you up with the skills, confidence, and knowledge that you’ll need to be successful in your undergraduate degree. It’s ideal if you need a little more support after further education, or are returning to education after a gap. Following successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will progress onto Year 1 of your BSc.

Your first year of study will be your Foundation Year, which covers a mix of key themes in Physics and Mathematics, such as Mechanics, Atoms, Nuclei and Particles, and Foundation Mathematics for Physicists.

On successful completion of your Foundation Year, you will spend a further three years working towards your BSc.

Year 2 is predominantly made up of compulsory modules, covering more in-depth topics such as Astronomy and Cosmology, and Quantum Mechanics.

Your third year also comprises of compulsory modules, building on your existing knowledge with modules covering a range of topics including Stellar Astrophysics, Electromagnetism and Thermal and Statistical Physics.

The fourth and final year compounds your existing knowledge with a range of specialist modules, covering Galactic Dynamics, Frontiers of Nucleic Physics and Advanced Astronomical Techniques.

Throughout the programme, you will be assessed through a range of diverse assessments, from reports and scientific posters to exams and presentations, allowing you to showcase your skills in communication, teamwork, research and more.